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Kochi Pattanam

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This night has no dawn. While a thriving night life still remains a distant dream for most malayalees here is a man who spends his days and nights in Chicago reminiscing about one of his unforgettable nights in Kochi Pattanam.

It’s July 24th Saturday night, my close group of friends and I decide to celebrate since this will be our last night out together in Kochi for a while. We start off at Dream hotel rooftop, and enjoy the beautiful views and the soothing winds. Not another rooftop anywhere else in the world can give me this feeling of belonging. We head out to Avenue Regent – Mezzo, and then after that, like always, top the night out at our second home – Pai Dosa. The famous Salt’N Pepper dosa will make sure I sleep well tonight! This is the end of my trip to my own town, till I come back this December!

Kochi Pattanam has always offered me phenomenally exciting nights out. This is my town, and this is my home. “Me and my boys” will be back in town soon enough. When I am out with my friends in Cochin, there is a reassuring feeling in my mind that everything is going to be good. That tonight, we are going to have the time of our lives, and that everything in life is going to be A-Okay. Only my hometown Cochi Pattanam can guarantee me this.

Back in Chicago, after work, my friends and I enjoy the evenings quite a bit, but nights out in Chicago are quite different from Cochin. The bars and clubs are always packed in the summer, and the popular ones always have pretty big lines to get in. However, they all lack the life, the excitement and the sheer fun feeling that bars and lounges in Cochin offer you. I miss the feeling of being in my hometown, the feeling that just outside this lounge are the same streets that I spent a majority of my lifetime with my friends during a better part of my school years. The bars in Cochin offer you a certain f “good times” feeling which alcoholic establishments of any scale anywhere else in the world fail to do with such charm.

The ambience, the view and the service that you get in Cochin are unparalleled. Here in the Chicago clubs and bars, it’s usually so chaotic; you have to wait so long to get your drink on! In Cochin, regardless of the crowd and the chaos, the service you get is impeccable, down to the number of ice cubes you request in your drinks! I perpetually miss the fact that I can order in my mother tongue. The “chetta” / “aniya” calls to the bartenders always add a certain fun and smoothness to my drinks!

The “touchings” we get at our local places, are what epitomize the night-life experience in Cochin. I wholeheartedly believe that Beef Dry Fry and Chicken Tikka add spice to your night! I am yet to have another culinary experience that can give me a “feel-good” high in life!

After a good night of social activities in Chicago, we usually end up in one of the early morning breakfast places. These are usually crowded with people trying to get one last bite in, before hitting the sack to sleep off a Sunday. Let me assure you, these places and what they offer, do not even hold a candle to what Thattukada’s in Cochin offer you. Kerala’s national food by choice, the infamous Porotta and curry is the best thing there is to follow a series of non-stop all night excitement. The atmosphere, the thrill and the fun of sitting on the benches outside at these Thattukadas and eating simply is the best way to finish off an exciting night out with your friends. This lip-smacking goodness of spicy flavored hot Thattukada food offers me a small piece of heaven every single time!

Of course, then comes the challenge of getting back home. Begging and pleading your auto-chettan’s for one last night ride, the sheer negotiation skills involved in convincing them to take you all the way to the edge of the city, all together makes it an exciting night! Here in Chicago, taxi-cabs are always easy to come by, but you miss out on the exciting challenge of having to find an auto home. When you have a stomach full of Old Monk Rum, Porotta, curry and the little auto rickshaw is “tuk-tuk” racing to get you home, you realize, tonight was a good night!

Chicago is a phenomenal city with tons of activities and a great view along the lake. However, Kochi Pattanam is what hits home in my heart. I miss the vibrancy, the greenery, the monsoons and the colorful Kochi life. I miss hanging out along Marine Drive, meeting up at Real Arabia for Shawarma and Sharjah Shake, walking down M.G.Road, running through and trying to catch a late-night movie and Padma or Shenoy’s. Then of course the late night eat-outs at Chariot or Highway Garden or your favorite Thattukada! No other city can make up for these, when Kochi comes calling!

The author, Paul John is a Kochi fanatic and a diehard mallu who passes of as a software professional at orbitz world wide, Chicago.

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What is the Vantara Project ?

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Reliance Industries and the Reliance Foundation introduced the “Vantara” programme (also known as the “Star of the Forest” programme) on February 26, 2024. Its main focus will be on the treatment, care, rescue, and rehabilitation of hurt, abused, threatened, or vulnerable animals in India and beyond. Anant Ambani, a director on the boards of both the Reliance Foundation and RIL, is the creator of the programme. 

Vantara (Star of the Forest) was founded on a deep philosophy that blends the accuracy of contemporary science and technology with the ancient Indian attitude of compassion, or “seva.” It is an expression of the moral duty to protect all living things, motivated by deeply ingrained Hindu traditions that maintain that serving animals is equivalent to serving the divine.

Vantara has demonstrated its dedication by organizing the rescue and rehabilitation of more than 200 elephants and numerous other animals from dangerous situations, offering these animals a safe habitat. The initiative extends beyond the act of rescue. It also includes putting key species like crocodiles, leopards, and rhinos through rehabilitation programmes to ensure their survival and well-being.

Vantara’s cutting-edge veterinary hospital, a marvel of contemporary medical technology, is the beating heart of the company’s medical endeavors. With its six specialist surgical centers, endoscopic robotic surgery technologies, and MRI and CT scan machines, the hospital is the best place for animal healthcare. The clinic, which fits damaged animals with prosthesis and helps them recover their health, is at the vanguard of medical innovation.

“The zoological park will be opened to the public soon, allowing people to witness our efforts in wildlife conservation and the sophisticated care we provide,” Anant Ambani said in a statement regarding the hospital’s capabilities and Vantara’s future ambitions.

However, Vantara’s vision goes beyond its confines. Ambani unveiled a bold proposal to transform animal welfare in India. “With training, capacity building, and the improvement of animal care infrastructure, Vantara aims to partner with the Zoo Authority of India and other relevant government organizations to improve the quality of all the 150+ zoos in India,” he said. This project, which emphasizes the value of comprehensive care and animal welfare, is poised to establish a new benchmark for zoos across the country.

In addition to being a haven for wildlife, vantara symbolizes optimism in the struggle against environmental deterioration and our responsibility to protect the planet’s rare biodiversity. Vantara asks us all to participate in a story that celebrates life in all its forms as it gets ready to open to the public.

 

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Cover Story

Insta – Glam : Best Fashion from Aparna Thomas

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Instagram has developed into a busy runway in the fast-paced world of fashion, where influencers like Aparna Thomas showcase their own looks, creating trends and motivating millions of others. Aparna Thomas has enthralled audiences with her varied and imaginative ensembles thanks to her outstanding taste and passion for fashion. Let’s delve into some of her best fashion looks that have left a lasting impression on fashion enthusiasts around the globe.

Effortless Glamour

Aparna Thomas looks sophisticated and alluring in this beautiful rainbow saree by Fitting Room Couture, styled by talented Sabarinath. Her look as completed by jewels from Pure Allure

Shimmer Glam

How to add a touch of glamour to any occasion without sacrificing comfort or style, just add some Shimmer. Aparna looks gorgeous  in the stunning golden sequined flared dress by D’Roz for Christmas theme shoot.

Chic Style

Aparna looks casual chic with urban sophistication with her street style look in this green dress by Urbanic

Regal Beauty

Aparna is a natural at stealing the show; she looks magnificent in her exquisite blue saree that Sabarinath styled. The saree comes from Luxurion World. 

Mythical Magic

Aparna looks stunning in an embellished saree by T & M Signature thanks to her excellent sense of style. The blouse features soft and elegant hues with delicate foliate motifs and elaborate crisscross patterns. The MOD Signature jewels completed the entire look. 

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Cover Story

Explore the Hidden Gems: Must-Visit Places on Lakshadweep

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Lakshadweep, meaning “a hundred thousand islands” in Sanskrit, is a mesmerizing archipelago nestled in the Arabian Sea. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, Lakshadweep is a paradise for travelers seeking serenity and natural beauty. Lakshadweep offers activities for all types of visitors, including nature lovers, water sports enthusiasts, and beach bums. These are the top  activities to do in Lakshadweep when visiting.

The only ways to get to Lakshadweep are by air or boat. There are frequent flights from Kochi and Bangalore to the single airport, which is located on Agatti Island. Another option is to travel by ferry from Kochi, which takes between 18 to 20 hours. To enter Lakshadweep, visitors must get a special permit, which can be obtained online or through the tourism department of Lakshadweep. When the weather is nice and sunny, from October to March is the ideal time to visit Lakshadweep. Since there aren’t many resorts or guesthouses in Lakshadweep, it’s crucial to reserve your lodging well in advance.

Agatti Island:

Agatti, the gateway to Lakshadweep, welcomes you with its breathtaking beauty. The island boasts stunning coral reefs, making it a haven for snorkelers and divers. Take a stroll along the shimmering white sands or indulge in water sports like kayaking and windsurfing. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the spectacular sunset painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.

Minicoy Island:

Experience the rich cultural heritage of Lakshadweep on Minicoy Island. The island is renowned for its traditional Maldivian-influenced culture, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and customs. Explore the charming villages adorned with colorful houses and visit the iconic Lighthouse built by the British. Don’t miss the chance to savor authentic Maldivian cuisine and witness captivating cultural performances.

Kadmat Island:

For those craving solitude and tranquility, Kadmat Island is the perfect escape. This serene island is renowned for its untouched beaches fringed with swaying palms. Dive into the azure waters to explore the vibrant marine life teeming with colorful fish and coral formations. Relax under the shade of coconut trees and savor fresh seafood delicacies served by local vendors.

Amini Beach:

If you’re searching for quiet tourist destinations in Lakshadweep, Amini Beach is a great choice. This beach is well-known on Amini Island because of its coral sandstone surface. Adventure sports like as snorkelling, scuba diving, reef walking, and kayaking are available for you to try. Amini Beach is a great place to unwind and spend the day drinking cocktails and soaking up the sun.

Bangaram Island:

Dubbed as the jewel of Lakshadweep, Bangaram Island is a postcard-perfect destination. With its powdery white sands and emerald lagoons, it’s a paradise for beach lovers. Spend your days basking in the sun, snorkeling amidst the coral gardens, or simply unwinding in a hammock under the shade of a palm tree. Indulge in a romantic beach picnic as you watch the stars illuminate the night sky.

Lakshadweep beckons travelers with its pristine beauty, diverse marine life, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, the islands offer a myriad of experiences to cherish. Explore these must-visit places on Lakshadweep and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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