Lalbaugcha Raja needs 39 metres of silk material for its dhoti, a shawl measuring 7 metres and 9 metres of silk material with jari work for the waistband. In addition, the idol is adorned with approximately 7 to 8 kilograms of gold
Wardrobe changes The idol is dressed in a yellow pitamber (dhoti), a stole and a kambar patta (waistband) with a new set of clothes twice every day, at 3am and 3pm. This adds up to 23 sets of clothes for the 11 days of the festival.
Meet the man who dresses up the Lalbaugcha Raja
People may be familiar with the names of Manish Malhotra and Vikram Phadnis, fashion designers to the stars. Lalbaug resident Rupesh Pawar, 40, is also a fashion designer but in a wholly different sense.
Among the few tailors in the city who are inundated with requests to dress up Ganesh idols before Ganeshotsav, Pawar literally dresses up the gods.
Pawar has been making costumes for the Ganesh idol for Lalbaughca Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshoutsav Mandal (LRSGM), organisers of the most visited pandal in the city, for the past 19 years. This year, around 40 lakh devotees are expected to visit the pandal.
Having Lalbaugcha Raja as a client makes Pawar a popular choice among other Ganesh mandals in the city, but he refuses to work for suburban mandals since he wouldn't have the time to visit the pandals personally.
Currently, Pawar is making attires for 13 large idols, ranging from 8 to 20 feet in height, and for about 30 small ones which will make their way into people's homes.
"Whatever I am today is because of Lalbaugcha Raja. I am just a simple tailor but I am recognised because of this Ganesh pandal," he says modestly.
Pawar takes four hours to make one set of clothes for an idol and begins work two months ahead of the festival. "The mandal has given me the right to choose the colours for the costumes, including the stoles that the idols wear," he said.
While keeping the attire simple, Pawar has introduced new features over time. Since last year, he has been bringing a special rim from Surat to embellish the dhoti worn by the deity. "We had to bring the dhoti border from Surat because we do not get this kind of elaborate handmade designs in Mumbai. Sharad Gahdigaonkar and Omkar Pahate are the two people helping me with this job," added Pawar.
Pawar charges Rs2,000 to Rs2,500 to dress up idols less than eight feet in height and from Rs3,500 to Rs4,500 for the taller ones. But for Lalbaugcha Raja, he does all the work for free. He says, "It is a big honour for me to dress up the king of Mumbai's Ganeshas."
Make your green Ganesha at home. It's easy
Chembur-based family promotes the craft for the sake of environment
With a shortage of 'eco-friendly' Ganesha idols in the market, a family of devotees in Chembur is promoting the craft of making idols at home.
The Sangoles who live in Chedda Nagar, have been among the first in the city to devise methods to make the Ganesh festival less environmentally-damaging, including immersing idols in artificial ponds so that they do not pollute natural water bodies.
Sheetal Sangole, a former school teacher, attended an idol-making workshop in Pune. She said that using simple techniques, idols can be made at a fraction of their cost.
Though clay idols dissolve completely in water without choking water bodies, idols manufacturers prefer to make statues out of plaster-of-Paris (PoP) which is cheaper and lighter, though more environmentally destructive than clay.
"If the clay idol is immersed in an artificial pond, the clay can be retrieved and reused," said her husband Dr Vijay Sangole, a former municipal doctor and joint secretary of Pestom Sagar Citizens' Forum.
"It gives a lot more joy if you worship a Ganesha that you have made yourself," said the couple's son Dr Nishant Sangole, a senior medical advisor with a pharmaceutical company. His wife Prajakta who is an artist, helps paint the idols.
The Sangoles have faced opposition from right wing groups that have said that an 'eco-friendly' Ganeshotsav violates religious traditions. "But when Ganesh idols were not made in workshops, people fashioned Ganeshas out of clay dug from their courtyards. The idols were immersed in the village wells. What we are doing was the original practice in villages," said Dr Vijay.
Beauty has many aspects. Gratefulness is one such aspect of beauty. When you don't feel a sense of lack, then you feel grateful. You cannot be grateful and feel lack. The two cannot co-exist at the same time.
When you feel lack, grumbling begins from some corner. If you are grumbling, the grumbling and negativity will increase. For those who do not have this knowledge, there is no way out of their grumblings, because once they start grumbling, they keep grumbling throughout their life. They feel some lack today and tomorrow they feel something else is lacking. There is no end to it. http://churchofbass.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/BuddhaGratitude.jpg
That is why Jesus said, "Those who have will be given more; as for those who do not have; even what they have will be taken from them." If you are grateful, more things will flow to you. And when you complain and grumble, even what little joy, peace or love you have come into this world with, will all be lost. This is the law of nature.
Not having is just an attitude in you; it's the direction you are moving in. Whatever is, that grows. You sow the seeds and they grow; they become plenty. If the seed itself is a seed of lack, only lack will grow. Open your eyes and see what you have been given! When you understand this knowledge and through this recognise what you have been given, then you become grateful.
Why did Communism flop? It was a great policy which said — those who do not have, give to them all. So, it gave to them — i.e. to those who did not have. And what happened? They became poorer and poorer, even on the very material plane, because the whole consciousness was flooded with the lack-ness. Without knowledge, without the wisdom, there is no progress; and even the most beautiful gifts in life turns ugly.
Gratefulness comes with knowledge. Know that you are loved. The divine loves you that is why he created this beautiful universe for you to enjoy. Feel grateful about whatever nature has bestowed upon you. Have faith that this entire creation loves you. When you have this faith life becomes full. And in that faith, there is knowledge, there is joy and beauty.
While the world's eyes were fixed on Anna Hazre and his fast, an IITian among the Gandhian's backroom boys quietly continued his indefinite fast even as he slogged in hot and humid weather surviving only on water.
Twenty seven-year-old Gopal Mohan, who was in charge of logistics at Ramlila Maidan, started his fast on August 16 when Anna started his fast and broke his fast secretly Sunday morning with coconut water when Anna broke his fast on stage. Only people close to him knew that he was on fast as Anna had strictly asked people in the team who are working not to fast.
"I have been working with Arvind Kejriwal for the past two and a half years and have been a part of the Lokpal movement since its beginning. I had fasted from April 5 to 9 at Jantar Mantar. It was difficult to fast while working in the heat but it was all for a pure and just cause," Gopal Mohan, a scientist, told.
Asked about his stressful and strenuous work schedule and fights with demanding visitors and media, he said: "It was very demanding but I like it. I drank a lot of water to handle the stress and keep myself fit. Due to so much of work I did not sleep for the last 13 days."
His father retired as a director-level official from Union government. But his love for social service is not newly acquired. He said he has received two president medals and three primer minister medals for social service. Besides, he has also won gold at international level in Scouts and Guides.
An electronic engineering graduate, Mohan did his post graduation in embedded systems and has just completed his PhD from IIT Delhi. "I had taken off from my work to take part in the fast from August 16. But the battle is only half won till now. If Anna sits on fast again, I will again come for volunteering and fast with him," added Mohan, who last around 7.5 kilograms during the last 13 days.
During the protests in Delhi in the last 13 days, he was detained by the Delhi Police seven times. He, however, says he will cherish every moment as it was for a special cause.
Walk-in interviews for web Designer / UI Designer on 7th June to 9th June, 12pm to 5pm with V2 Solutions.
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We have an opportunity for you to work as an Assistant Manager – Retail sales in a well known Broadcasting Channel based in Mumbai. The company launched its first station on 4th October 2001 in Indore. Later in about a year, the company made its presence felt in seven cities and also became the only private FM brand in all the 4 metros. After Phase 2 of licensing in 2006 the company expanded its network to 25 additional stations thus taking the total number of stations to 32.
Playing contemporary hits songs the company has always been the No 1 choice of listeners. IRS 2009 reiterates the same as company has more than 41 million listeners across 32 stations. Its lead over its nearest competitor is more than double. Its market share in revenue terms remains in excess of 40% of the private FM industry.
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Making sales calls Preparing client proposals, presentations Plan weekly sales cycle and schedule client meeting accordingly Generate ideas for clients based on the brand requirement Market Information Preparing client and market mapping reports for his area / industry Reports on client spends at a brand level Follow up and ensure that monies are collected on time including sending appropriate reminders to clients and agencies for payment Conducting competition tracking and monitoring on a daily basis Media Tracking to generate prospects Preparing sales and sales related reports including daily call reports, weekly reports, sales projection report, monthly sales plan etc Plan and budget revenue generation for the week and month Provide written brief to programming for the spot / commercial based on inputs from client / agency Ensure that ROs and TOs are appropriately generated and the spots are scheduled accordingly (through the sales coordinator and scheduler) Contribute to sales strategy and generate ideas for revenue maximization Develop and sell specials and events Maintain strong relationships with clients and agencies in the person's portfolio
ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS:
Reports to Retail / Corporate Sales Head in Metros and to Sales Head in non-metros
The position expects the person to work with considerable amount of independence and take decision regarding the target achievement.
CONTACTS: Internal persons
The position requires the person to coordinate regularly with 1. Programming – Copy writer and PS for client activities, ideas etc 2. The sound engineers and promo producers for commercials 3. Marketing to understand events calendar and generate revenue from them 4. Scheduler for scheduling the commercials 5. Sales coordinator for TO, payment reminders etc
External persons The position requires the person to coordinate with agency personnel, clients, their key decision makers, decision influencers etc
KNOWLEDGE OF EQUIPMENTS TO BE USED: The person should be able to use with proficiency: 1. Excel and Word for preparing reports and proposals 2. Basic computer applications for writing scripts, doing paperwork & corresponding.
If interested then revert to us with your updated CV and with your current compensation details.
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It is not for the first time that the parliament has debated the issue of fighting corruption. Indeed, the debate is as old as the constitution itself, and with precise foresight one member of the constituent assembly Mahavir Tyagi had analysed the scenario on November 26, 1949.
"All democracies are run by professional politicians and I am afraid that is the main cause of their failures, because such people begin to live on democracies. It becomes with them a profession, the statecraft, becomes their only source of living. That is the bane of democracy and I want to make the future generations aware of this. It creates professional politicians — those whose earning depend on politics, with the result that they cut themselves adrift from all creative professions," said Tyagi.
In an intervention that lasted just five minutes, Tyagi then went on to observe that the Constitution should rather be run by political professionals - persons who have their own professions to live upon, but who come here to run the state voluntarily or on small pays.
Acknowledging that such an amendment could not be accepted by the constituent assembly, he then suggested a future one. "Notwithstanding anything contained in this Constitution, no citizen of India shall draw for his personal use either from the public exchequer or from private enterprise a pay, profit or allowance which exceeds the earnings of an average wage earner."
Tyagi concluded with an assertion that the Constitution will only safeguard the bread of those whose hands are full of bread and not of those whose hands are empty if such an amendment is not introduced.
New Acquisition Act will boost redevelopment: Ahir
Landlords will be forced to toe the govt line, says housing minister
In a move that could resolve the impasse surrounding thousands of old buildings in the city, the state government is planning to introduce a new law that will force stubborn landlords into signing up for redevelopment.
"The draft of the Acquisition Act is almost ready and will be introduced soon for feedback from all the stakeholders, before it is finalised," revealed Sachin Ahir, minister of state for housing, while addressing a packed gathering at the inaugural session of DNA Property Redevelopment conference-cum-exhibition that's underway at Nehru Centre, Worli.
Greedy landlords who stall redevelopment projects will be forced to toe the line and if they fail to do so, the government will take over their buildings in the larger interest of the tenants, Ahir told the 500-strong gathering.
Spelling out the state government's seriousness to prevent deliberate derailment of redevelopment projects by opportunists, Ahir said that even the tenants and residents in a minority who stall projects after majority of the residents have signed up, will be dealt with firmly.
"We will have provision under the new act to deploy a special cell of police officials to bring such parties to the table and investigate if there is any merit in their anti-redevelopment argument. If there is no good reason, then they will also have to sign up and they will be evicted under section 95-A to make way for the project," Ahir disclosed, adding that redevelopment is the need of the hour for the island city, where less than 5,000 buildings have been redeveloped in the past 30 years and as many as 15,000 buildings are in need for a transformation.
"The government can do its bit by bringing in policy changes, but it is for residents and developers to take the initiative for a change for the better," Ahir said.
Speaking on the occasion, BJP corporator Ashish Shelar said that there is a need for more clarity on the definition of old buildings in the city as well as the suburbs, so that the affected residents can qualify for proper FSI to make the project feasible. "All the agencies like UD, BMC, Mhada and MMRDA should sit together and chalk out a comprehensive roadmap for redevelopment of old buildings, instead of announcing piecemeal initiatives that don't add up to much," he said.
FSI being the buzzword with redevelopment projects, civic chief Subodh Kumar was forthright in setting the record straight over the recent amendments to the DCR. "Be it restricted FSI or unlimited FSI, at the end of the day, there is very less open land in the city and the future growth will come only through redevelopment," said Kumar, adding that the amendments in the DCR have been made to create a level playing field across the city and to encourage development in all parts of Mumbai.
Susceptible to serious accidents every monsoon, the cost of running the railway is proving greater than the project cost
Are the routes on Konkan Railway (KR) a huge drain on the exchequer? Can they ever be financially viable? These are the questions being raised following repeated disruptions of rail traffic. In the last two months alone, rail traffic had to be suspended on three occasions due to waterlogging, landslides, and boulders sliding on to the tracks.
Now senior railway board officials are saying that the costs of maintaining the route have far outstripped even the project cost. "To recover the cost of construction and the heavy maintenance costs, tariffs over the route are already inflated by 40% for passenger traffic and by 50% for freight traffic," pointed out a senior official. "But even that is not helping. The project cost Rs800 crore, but clearing landslide debris is getting costlier by the day." This year alone, KR has spent nearly Rs40 crore on clearing tracks. He explained how this dream project was something even the British toyed with and abandoned. "The Greater Indian Peninsular Railway had surveyed the region in the late 1930s. They found the narrow West Coast strip, bound by the Sahyadris on the east and the Arabian Sea on the west, unsuited for a railway. Their findings cited the presence of criss-cross mountain ranges, soft laterite soil, a large number of rivers, and tidal estuaries as reasons for abandoning the idea," he said, adding, "We thought we are technically advanced, but now, with the spate of disruptions and mishaps, it seems they were right."
The 760 km-long route saw its first mishap on June 22, 2003, when a portion of the hill crashed, blocking the tunnel. This led to the derailment of the Mumbai-Karwar Jan Shatabdi Express, killing 51. A year later, on June 16, 2004, the Mumbai-Goa Matsyagandha Express collided with boulders that fallen at the entrance of a tunnel near Ratnagiri.
Eight bogies were derailed, with two falling off the bridge, leaving 14 dead. The Matsyagandha Express met with another accident on November 8, 2010, near Ankola in North Kanara, this time hit by boulders that came crashing down the hillside. One died and 15 were injured. Though nobody is willing to go on record, KR sources estimate that to date, KR has spent a whopping Rs1,200 crore to keep its trains plying.
"Landslides, caused by removal of basal support to the rock and soil mass on the hill-slope, are the major problem," avers Dr V Subramanyan, former geology professor, IIT Bombay, who has studied this region extensively. "The railway's excavation of the hill-slopes for laying the tracks contributes to the removal of this 'toe' support, as it is called, and initiates landslides," he explains. "The unfavourable inclination of the rocks and the heavy rains this region experiences only add to the problem."
According to him, constructing retaining walls below the slopes that have been cut into is necessary to stabilise them. "Several such walls have been built by KR. However, as the recent wall collapse near Ratnagiri shows, the protection was rather weak and hence ineffective. Thicker, RCC walls, founded deep enough, are needed. KR has placed steel wire nets on some slopes susceptible to landslides. But intensive monitoring during the monsoon will help identify more such areas for preventive action."
Dr Subramanyan also points to another culprit. He says due to weathering, the black 'basalt' rock found in Konkan releases spherical boulders. "The cycle of heating up during the day and cooling down during night produces rounded boulders due to 'spheroidal weathering.' These boulders, some fully buried, some partly buried, and some others released from their moorings, can be seen strewn all over. These get dislodged by vibrations caused by speeding trains and fall on the track, leading to accidents," he explains. He advises a detailed survey so that all loose boulders on hill-slopes near the track and above tunnel entrances can be located and removed. "Those partly buried should be anchored with appropriate cement sprays or structures. If the boulders are properly managed, accidents can be averted."
Local environmentalists like Jeetendra Gharat put say part of the blame lies with the illegal quarrying activity. "Since these people enjoy the political patronage of the biggest politician in the Konkan region, nobody dares say anything," he laments.
Admitting that the recurrent problem is a matter of concern, KR chief public relations officer Siddheshwar Telugu told DNA, "We set aside nearly Rs25 crore for preventive pre-monsoon works to ensure a mishap-free monsoon. This is a continuous battle. We know huge funds are involved but KR now connects people across the country and we have to keep it going."
Parliament agrees 'in principle' to Anna's conditions; but govt retains wriggle room on bill
Both houses of Parliament Saturday unanimously adopted a "sense of the House" on Anna Hazare's three conditions for an effective Lokpal bill: establishment of Lokayuktas in the states, a Citizen's Charter, and inclusion of the lower bureaucracy in the Lokpal bill. The Parliament's "resolving" to consider these three factors as key to an effective Lokpal was greeted with celebrations by the Anna camp.
The Parliament's debates on the bill will also be forwarded to the Standing Committee on the Lokpal bill. Anna responded by announcing that he will break his fast at 10am today. "But the battle is only half-won," he said.
The Parliament, however, did not pass a resolution, or conduct a voice vote on the conditions put forward by Anna. The government used every trick in the rulebook to not commit itself either through voting or a resolution. Finance minister Pranab Mukherjee, who initiated the debate, intervened late in the evening to request Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar to forward the debate proceedings to the Standing Committee examining the Lokpal Bill. The BJP was in favour of voting but the Congress wriggled out of the situation.
Earlier on Saturday, with Team Anna firm on their demands, and all eyes on the government, Mukherjee kicked off the discussion by asking the Parliament to discuss three specific issues: whether the jurisdiction of the Lokpal should cover all employees of the central government; whether Lokpal will operate through the institution of the Lok Ayukt in all states; and whether the Lokpal should have the power to punish all those who run afoul of the 'grievance redressal mechanism' to be put in place. He wondered if any of the members in the House really believed such provisions will end corruption.
Mukherjee, however, made it clear that the decision on these points "must be consistent with the principles enshrined in the Constitutional framework."
He said that the Standing Committee examining the Lokpal Bill can take into account the "practicability, implementability, and constitutionality" of the consensus view of the Parliament.
"We have taken oath to abide by the Constitution. So whatever we do has to be within the Constitution. We are at crossroads. It is a rare occasion, when the proceedings of this House are attracting the attention of the entire nation and the whole world. I would request the members to have a dispassionate and objective discussion to find a solution to the problem without compromising parliamentary democracy," Mukherjee said. Though there was no voting, experts said that a thumping of the desks after Mukherjee's speech could be seen and taken as a voice vote and as adoption of the resolution.
The BJP stood by its stated position. Leader of Opposition Sushma Swaraj suggested that the Lokpal and Lokayukta can be made through one single bill under section 252 of the Constitution, which talks about the "Power of Parliament to legislate for two or more States by consent and adoption of such legislation by any other State." While favouring a grievance mechanism system and a citizen's charter, the BJP, however, did not favour Anna's ideas completely and suggested different mechanisms for curbing corruption in the lower bureacracy.
But all these suggestions came after sufficient government bashing. Swaraj took a dig at the prime minister, the Lok Sabha Speaker and Rahul Gandhi. She said Gandhi had come to the House to give his party's line. "It was then that I realised that the government was dragging it's feet and looking for a way out," Swaraj said, while calling his speech laughable. The young Gandhi was not present in the house and Swaraj rubbed in the point that he rarely makes an appearance.
The Congress MP from East Delhi, Sandeep Dikshit, clarified the government's position and said that there was scope for negotiations, and changes in the government's bill.
Sheena Gupta, a young corporate professional, always picks her favourite drink Bloody Mary on a girls' night out. When you sidle up to the bar and place your order, you open a window to your soul, revealing not only who you are, but also who you long to be. Like your clothes, the cocktail you order says a great deal about your personality.
Behavioural expert, Dr Hemant Mittal, admits that the type of drink one chooses definitely defines one's disposition. "Higher alcohol content drinks like Long Island Iced Tea are normally pointers to restlessness. Wine drinkers and connoisseurs are very meticulous and detailed about everything in life. While cocktail drinkers are normally social drinkers or those who want to get drunk faster," he explains.
Sheena puts it aptly, "A Bloody Mary shows that you enjoy music and long walks on the beach. I'm just that person." While a Martini defines your finer tastes in life, Mojitos reflect the confidence and adventurous part in you. Gin and tonics are for the James Bonds at heart. Not surprising then that narcotics officer Arnab Bose only orders that. "That's my customary order at a bar. Most of my colleagues also vouch for gin and tonic," he smiles.
Beer however remains the most ordered, whether one is out with his/her 25-year-olds gang, or having a leisurely chat, catching up with old friends and looking back at their hey days. Hemant says, "The line between masculine and feminine drinking styles, drinks and even addiction levels is fast disappearing. Urban women often start with beer and move to vodka or whisky. Much of the discrimination however is palate dependent."
"Drinking just to get drunk is a sign of wanting to escape away from life situations. While having a drink or two is a symbol of being friendly, binge drinking shows high amount of stress leading to self-destructive ways of releasing it," he warns.
Celebrities reveal that chanting mantras works as a de-stressing therapy...
You'd think that anybody in search of holistic relaxation would visit a spa or a gym for a much needed recharge. While that is sure to help, the practice of chanting mantras is a much overlooked technique that provides mental peace and equilibrium.
Actor Aarti Chhabria says that sometimes when her body is physically tired, her mind refuses to shut down and races with several different thoughts. "At such times when I can't sleep, I chant Om Nama Shivay and I soon fall asleep chanting." While Aarti is all for spa treatments saying that they help immensely with mental and physical relaxation she says there are other times when she prefers to chant in her room or simply to listen to the sounds of silence and her own breathing. "When I can concentrate on my breath coming in and out, it's a very privileged experience and one that too few people indulge in," she says.
Actor Tisca Chopra feels that the main function of chanting is to help cleanse the mind of negative emotions and consequently equip one with a sense of control. "Chanting clears the unnecessary clutter of modern living and makes me the master of my mind," says Tisca.
The actor feels that relaxation is just one of the by-products of her chanting, the others being that it equips her with a sense of right perspective on her life while also filling her with radiant positive energy.
Singer Anaida chants both the Buddhist Nam Myoho Renge Kyo mantra and the Hindu mool mantra for situations that either require healing or make her connect to her higher self. "They're relaxing because one is emptying one's mind of clutter and filling it with positive vibrations. I not only feel relaxed but also energised by chanting these two mantras," she says.
Anaida who also practises group chanting with Buddhist believers says that it is a more effective technique when one wants to send across healing energies; while solo chanting is more effective when she wants clarity on her own life.
'Indian cuisine is right up there amongst my favourites'
Renowned TV presenter and food critic Matt Preston, who gorged on sev puris on his visit to Mumbai recently, talks about his love for food
Isn't food a very subjective experience?
This is a view I used to subscribe to but as Gary (Mehigan), George (Calombaries) and myself seldom disagree on dishes, this makes me think that there is objectivity in what is a good or bad dish. Tastes can change over cultural borders however and this is something that a critic needs to be aware of. Having said all that I see my role as a critic as explaining what an experience is like rather than just scoring it.
Are you aware of your huge fan following in India? Is that why you chose to fly down here?
I never realised quite how popular the show was but after seven days in Mumbai and Bangalore I have been left in no doubt about the popularity of the show! The reaction of viewers has been very humbling indeed. I really came to Mumbai to catch up with friends and to eat well post the end of series 3 but I was happy to help out with the promotion of the new series of the show while I was here!
Your show has set a standard that the other versions have to match up to.
That's very kind of you to say so but I would not be so arrogant as to presume that I have anything of wisdom to share with the experienced producers of the Indian version! My feeling is that the success of our show has been to focus on the joy of food. As far as we judges are concerned we like to see ourselves more mentors than tormentors!
What is your favourite in Indian cuisine?
Indian (in all its many vibrant regional and cultural variations) is right up there amongst my favourites. Few other cuisines offer quite the same diversity! This trip I have eaten exceptionally well. There has been so much to love, from the paneer at Neel or the sev puri at Swati to a very fancy dish of goat's brain, smoked lamb tongue and a puree loaded with the rich flavours of haleem from Manu Chandra's modern Indian tasting menu at Olive in Bangalore. I've also enjoyed anything cooked with katchampuli; this so-called black vinegar has been a wonderful discovery for me.
Often age-old traditional dishes fall into oblivion. And that way a great dish gets wiped out from food history. How could one preserve those recipes?
What a great question and such an important issue. I am a firm believer that great recipes and culinary techniques are as much held by home cooks as great chefs in restaurants. Here I have met a number of chefs and food writers keen to research, preserve and even reignite this great culinary heritage of India. Our show is exploring a way to feature the recipes and some of Australia's more senior amateur cooks. I have a collection of my family's recipe books dating back to 1769 crammed with those sorts of traditional recipes. Put aside an hour a week to ask the best older cook in the family to teach them those recipes which should be our birth right.
Is there a secret to a great dish?
Yes — a great dish combines deliciousness with that dish's longevity. Only then can a dish be declared truly "great".
What do you love cooking?
Cooking is a beautiful way to show people how much you care for them - so the simplest recipe is "cook with love"!
Celebrities recount how vegetables that were once considered exotic to the Indian palate, are now an important part of Indian cooking
For those who grew up during the George Bush years, broccoli jokes about the American President abounded in the international press but mystified most Indians who couldn't understand what the taste of broccoli was like. And while many Indians in their home country substituted capsicum for bell peppers in exotic recipes, they also wondered what the real McCoy was like. Around this time, the economic liberalisation changed all that and today urban Indians have access to produce from the world's markets in a culinary sense as well.
Says food savant and author Rashmi Uday Singh, "It was several different factors coming together that have lead to the rise of foodie-ism in this country. The coming of the Internet, mobile phones, the rise of working women as a whole and a resultant disposable income in the family resulted in more global exposure. As a result, different kinds of cuisines made inroads in our routine eating."
Vegetables that were once considered a part of foreign cooking — such as broccoli, baby corn, exotic mushrooms, bell peppers, Chinese cabbage and snow peas — are not only readily available in the market but are being incorporated in the contemporary housewife's culinary vocabulary.
Says Zeba Kohli, businesswoman, "I make Paneer Broccoli for my children with some onions and tomatoes thrown in. They also love my version of Tandoori Broccoli or the Murg Musallam that I make with that vegetable. As for bell peppers, I use them in all my tandoori dishes." She adds that while she has mushrooms for Kheema, she is yet to try out Chinese cabbage for Indian recipes.
Rashmi Uday Singh on the other hand votes for snow peas which she stir fries with a little ajwain. "They're tender and they're flat and are meant to be eaten whole — with the pod that encases them as well." She points out that the exotic Chinese shitaki mushrooms and Japanese enoki variety which were once difficult to come by in this country are now available as well. "While button mushrooms have been very much a part of the Indian culinary landscape it's super to find these new options opening up a whole range of food possibilities."
Chef Hemant Oberoi, head chef of a chain of luxury hotels in the country, says, "If vegetables that were once considered exotic are available in the market today, it's primarily because there's a demand for them." He points out that most of these vegetables are now in many cases grown indigenously, unlike a few decades back when they were mostly imported. Hemant, for the last several years, has been using ethnic Indian vegetables in foreign cuisines.
Fasting is an important religious observation for Jains and members of the community are using their knowledge and experience of long fasts to take care of those on a hunger strike at Azad Maidan in support of the Jan Lokpal Bill.
The fast entered its 11th day on Friday and the 17 hunger strikers who are plodding on are being cared for by 70 members of Tarun Mitra Mandal, a large community organisation representing the Kutchi Visa Oswal Jains.
From providing the hunger strikers drinking water and medical care to sheltering them at night and getting their clothes washed, the volunteers have been there from August 16, the first day of the fast.
Dr Kalpana Kamani, a member of Tarun Mitra Mandal, is one of the two doctors staying with the protestors day and night, constantly monitoring their health.
She said it was not just monks and nuns, but ordinary Jains too fast for a month or 40 days. "Jain fasts are different as they drink water only during daylight hours. Many of the people here have never fasted for such long periods. Many of them are tired, but they are a highly spirited group and their health indicators are fine," said Kamani.
Jains started 'Paryushan' - a month-long period of fasting and other religious observances from Thursday.
Kamani said they are not applying Jain fasting principles at Azad Maidan. "We cannot do that; there are people here from different religious communities," she said. Dhirajbhai Rambhia, founder-president of the 42-year old Tarun Mitra Mandal, said the body is quick to adjust itself to situations like lack of food supply.
"When the body is denied food, organs adjust to the condition. Since many Jains fast for long periods, their bodies are familiar with the ritual," said Rambhia.
Those on fast at Azad Maidan have the choice of drinking cool or warm bottled water. An acupressure expert is on call to help take care of physiological stress. At night, the hunger strikers move to the banquet hall of Shri Kutchi Visa Oswal Jain Dervasi Mahajan building at Dongri. "They are so weak that we do not leave them alone. We even help them to shave their beards," said Rambhia.
Wardrobe must haves: Women
The wardrobe essentials for this season are:
Trousers:Trousers whether they're high waisted or have a normal waist, they are a wardrobe essential for this season as with comfort, they make any outfit classy and chic. Lace dresses: As the vintage era is back, lace dresses are a big must-have.This trend was seen last season too. Lace dresses add a touch of femininity to the outfit and can be paired with blazers, belts etc Blazers: Blazers are everywhere be it candy-coloured bright blazers or oversized boyfriend blazers. It's a must to invest in a good blazers this season, as it can be paired with any outfit and it instantly makes the outfit better. Botanical prints: Last season was all about floral prints, this season it's about botanical prints. Floral accessories: Floral earrings, bags, rings are a big trend this season and a wardrobe must-have. Satchel bags: Satchel bags give that vintage feel to every outfit and are again, a must have. Little black dress: LBD has been a staple item for ages. Bow tie: Bow ties can be seen everywhere this season as androgynous looks are popular now. Flats in different colours: It's good to invest in flats in different colours as it can change the look of any outfit. Black heels: Always invest in a pair of plain black heels. High waisted shorts: High waisted shorts are a good investment as they can make you look chic in one go. Oversized clutch: Oversized clutch are obviously not like your regular clutch, they're bigger, better and can carry a lot more then a cellphone and a wallet.
The placement of stalls and Urban Haat's design has not made it a refuge for shoppers. Instead it has proved to be a great place for lovers
Srishti Shinde l Vashi
The only place in Navi Mumbai that has a row of stalls giving a platform to some of the rarest talents from different states of the country is Urban Haat. With its lush green pathways surrounded by scenic beauty, the place surely houses some of the unique pieces of rural art forms.
However, the way it has been constructed and the placement of stalls has left it to be a deserted zone after dark and a lover's paradise during the day. Nerul resident Priyanka Wadhwa, who had been there last week for the Shravan Mela with her family, says they were left starving, thirsty and tired after going half way. "I had been there with my in-laws, my husband and my daughter; and the place is structured in a way for people to reduce weight. You just have to keep moving up and up and up, without knowing where you are heading to. Moreover, since I went there for the first time, I didn't know that there were no food stalls until you reach the top," she complains.
Anil, her husband said, "I felt as if I was attending a fitness training like Rocky since I was moving up in full spirit without water and anything to eat. It was highly disturbing since there isn't a single stall in the lower levels for drinking water and snacks."
GL Karnani, president of Sankalp Welfare Association in Belapur mentions that the node is essentially a commercial one, and has meager residential population. This, he mentioned is one of the most important reasons of Urban Haat being deserted, moreover the rains are also playing a spoil sport as the entire area is open and not shaded.
He added, "People visit the place only during the weekends since it is indeed a vast area and it requires enough time to explore it fully. And, the kind of artisans that they bring is also getting monotonous; they should try and get more variety. However, it's quite understood that sales don't happen that often, which doesn't encourage people to come and set up a stall. The only viable solution is that Cidco has to make an agenda to advertise it in every node and give it enough publicity. It's astonishing to know that 60 percent of Navi Mumbai doesn't even know what and where is Urban Haat."
In fact there are other reasons that too play a very important role in making Urban Haat the way it is, an unknown place that people know is just good for couples.
"Cidco should be organising cultural and interactive programmes, wherein Navi Mumbaikars can participate so that more and more people have a reason to visit the place," suggests Kamal Sharma, secretary of senior citizens seva sanstha, Belapur.
However, Urban Haat, manager KS Nair, says Cidco has been making some interesting changes and additions to make the place more visitors friendly. "We have installed extra lights so that people don't complain of it being deserted and dark, also there are various food stalls up there where people can avail of some great food. But I will definitely try to implement the suggestions like setting up a water and snack stall in the vacant areas on the slope."
Madhusudan Lele, chief planner of Cidco said the aim of organising various melas and handicraft fair is to attract more and more visitors to the place. "There are exhibitions being held every now and then. Also, during public holidays, we try to organise cultural programmes at the amphitheatre in which Navi Mumbaikars can participate. We will work towards promoting Urban Haat vigorously and yes resident suggestions are more than welcome," he mentioned.
These days, typing Anna on Google doesn't show you tennis sensation Anna Kournikova. It throws up images and news about a 74-year-old man and his anti-corruption movement. Anna has caught the imagination of a nation. His Gandhi topi has caught the imagination of the masses and the classes
If you have been following Lakme Fashion Week, you might have noticed lots of celebrities wearing the 'Gandhi Topi'. The crisp cap sat comfortably on the heads of Bollywood stars Vidya Balan, Dia Mirza, Celina Jaitley and Shreyas Talpade.
Although Gandhi topi has been there for ages, the person who has made it popular in none other than Anna Hazare. His simple white cap has captured the imagination of the whole nation and everyone — kids, youngsters and senior citizens are seen wearing this cap.
If you are a part of any rally in support of Anna Hazare's campaign or even if you have watched a rally pass by, then you must have noticed the large number of people sporting these caps. This slim boat-shaped cap in making waves and most people have a feeling that wearing the Gandhi topi helps them show their solidarity towards the movement.
Airoli resident Anish Nair says, "The Gandhi caps are definitely making a come back in a big way these days. Earlier, these caps used to be worn by rural people in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh or Bihar. Since Gandhiji was from Gujarat even he wore the cap and slowly this cap started to be known as the Gandhi cap.
"The price of these caps has also increased with most youth wanting to wear it while being a part of this rally or otherwise. Earlier, the topi used to cost Rs10, today you find it being sold at double the rate." Apparently when rallies were held in the satellite city in support of Anna's movement, many organisations donate the Gandhi cap.
18-year old Krutika Ram says she and her friends recently purchased Gandhi caps as they felt these look pretty 'cool'. "Yes, the cap is being used in rallies. Since many celebrities are wearing it these days, it is making a style statement. So, I feel that by wearing something I can look stylish as well as show my support towards the movement because of the slogan written on it, then what's the harm?"
Supporters of Anna Hazare's agenda say that their only reason for wearing it is to show support to the movement. For 22-year old Nerul resident Omesh Nair, wearing the Gandhi topi helps him get into the mood of the rally completely.
"So many people are wearing these white caps. I feel the slogans on the caps is one of the reasons the cap is in demand."
y activity, and from being the naughtiest kids to loving their parents in tim
From being bogged down with studies to the pressure of being the best in every activity, and from being the naughtiest kids to loving their parents in times when they break down. Children surely have diverse roles to play in life, in addition to a whole of responsibilities that seem to be simple to us. However, amidst a lot of issues that surround them, there are some things that are special about being a single child.
From being the one who seeks maximum attention to the one who sulks the absence of a sibling, a single child has the whole world just revolving around him. "In today's kind of lifestyle, people want to give everything to their child. They fear that having two kids, will divide their attention and responsibility towards their child, which is unfair. That's the reason most people prefer having a single child these days. And when it is about having a single child, upbringing plays a very important role," mentioned Dr Malini Shah, clinical psychologist at Aastha Chrysalis, Vashi. Shalini Singh Rajaram, a resident of Nerul agrees with the view. She too has, just a son, and as parents they do understand the effects of having one. She explains, "It's not a trouble for the parents, but it is the child that suffers the most. We give him the maximum attention which forms an intervention after a while; which is why we enrolled Pranay (their son) in a hostel two years back so that he doesn't feel the pinch of being single."
On talking about the pros, Dr Kurien S Thomas, a psychologist, states that many parents feel that having a single child would mean they can give more attention and entire savings and property to the child. "This would mean that the child will have everything ready in hand and can lead a life without financial burdens. The best of educational facilities, luxuries are provided to them, which I see as the only advantage," adds Thomas. While Shah points out quiet a few advantages like the child feels quite wanted, accepted since he gets all the attention. Moreover the family being quite close knit there's a lot of warmth and no adjustment problems at all. However, there are some who take being single as a challenge and grow to be more responsible, with time.
Pradeep Kumar, a resident of Airoli says that being a single child is much better than bothering parents to share the smallest of things. "I have been a single child, and my daughter too is one. I remember I would return from school and start doing my homework, without anyone pressurising me. In fact, my daughter too is the same, she comes back home in the afternoon when both my wife and I are at work. She comes home, puts her uniform to wash, she has a timetable for each day, about what household chores she would be doing. And on specific days, she either cleans her study table, makes up her cupboard, etc. And we have never told her to do all these. Single children do grow up to be more responsible, which lacks in siblings."
However, the cons too are not less, Karyn Mendonca, a clinical psychologist from Seawoods, mentions that over attention is the biggest issue that single children face. "The smallest of things is monitored or scrutinised, which leaves them not getting their private space. This over attention leads them to withdraw from their parents and look for friends and well-wishers outside." Also, parents often become hyper vigilant or, over protective, since they have the fear of losing the child, which is the reason they try to give their best. In the process the child may not get his desired freedom, which leads to depression. Shah also states, "There's an issue of importance, which is given at home, but may not be given outside, which leaves them feeling unwanted by outsiders."
In fact Thomas terms it as the "Lone Syndrome" and mentions that the child tends to feel more dependent on the parent and may lack self confidence to meet the outer world. "The only child generally tends to be selfish as the sharing, caring, adjusting mentality does not exist. I have seen some families facing trouble as the spouse does not know to adjust, care, share etc as the values are not in-built in that person," added Thomas.
Impress your family with these delicacies this Ganpati festival
Ganesh Chaturthi is the time to indulge in festival goodies. Bring good luck and prosperity home this festival and celebrate the occasion with lip-smacking Naivedyam recipes contributed by leading chefs.
The recipes have been compiled by Mewati Sitaram
Ganesh Chaturthi is a special occasion and so should be its recipe. Whoever brings a Ganesh idol at home makes sure to cook a complete meal, which is called Naivedyam, to serve it to Lord Ganesha. Surprisingly, devotees prepare new recipes every day to offer to Ganesha, including modak.
Lord Ganesh is known for his inclination towards sweets. Therefore, a festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha will always be incomplete without special sweet dishes. There are a variety of dishes and sweets made on this occasion, with the most popular one being Modak.
"Not only during festival but otherwise also, a satvik eater remains sensitive to the various nuances of his sensory being. On exposure to adverse conditions, a satvik person remains largely unaffected. Even if he falls sick his recovery period is very short, much shorter than any other," says Sanjeev Kapoor, a master chef
Inder Dev, executive chef, ITC Fortune Select Excalibur, Gurgaon, says "One need to be a regular to on satvik food. A person who eats satvik food has an ideal combination of physically, mentally and emotionally harmony and well-being, and is at peace with himself. Such a person is always focused in his work, sleeps less and remains energized all day long".
Sanjeev Kapoor
Grand master chef, entrepreneur, author, India's longest running cookery show (Khana Khazana) presenter.
Dry fruits and khajoor laddoo
Ingredients
Cashew nuts ¼ cup
Almonds ¼ cup
pistachios ¼ cup
Dates, seeded and chopped: ½ kilogram
Desi ghee: 2 tbsp
Gum resin (gond), crushed 1 tablespoon
Poppy seeds (khuskhus) roasted 1 tablespoon
Green cardamom powder 1 teaspoon
Nutmeg powder ½ teaspoons
Method:
Coarsely grind dates in a mixer and transfer into a bowl. Coarsely grind cashewnuts, almonds and pistachios.
Heat one tablespoon of ghee in a pan, add gum resin and fry till golden brown. Drain and set aside.
In the same pan, add the remaining ghee and sauté coarsely ground dry fruits and poppy seeds. Add dates and mix well. Sauté till dates are heated through.
Remove into a plate and set aside to cool slightly.
Add green cardamom powder and nutmeg powder. Crush the gum resin and add. Mix everything well. And knead into dough.
Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into laddoos.
Cool completely and store in an airtight container.
City politicians go online to connect with masses
Most of the elected representatives opt for networking sites to stay connected with people and to discuss their issues
From Bollywood celebrities to television actors, and from entrepreneurs to social activists, everyone today has a social presence. You got it right, from updating statuses on Facebook to posting their views on Twitter, they are extremely active online. Then why should the prominent political figures from Navi Mumbai stay behind; they have captured the trend and are quite well flaunting it. City politicians and social workers have taken to social networking sites like never before.
Starting with the honourable mayor of Navi Mumbai, Sagar Naik has a prominent presence on Facebook. He mentioned, "I am a common man on these social networking sites, as a mayor, it is my duty to look into people's problems irrespective of their castes or their belonging to any political party. I am on Facebook, since I want my people to be in touch with me and discuss their issues with me."
Dashrath Bhagat, one of the standing committee members is also on Facebook and uses it as a medium for his social activities carried out in Navi Mumbai. He explains, "My work doesn't limit to Navi Mumbai, it extends to Maharashtra and at all India level many a times. Being active on social networking sites helps me sent messages about events and is a great way to communicate with my people. Moreover, when I or friends or colleagues indulges in any kind of social works, we share photos and details about the same on these sites and that's one way we can interact with the masses. Also, it proves to be very helpful when we need to send across press notes or standing committee updates to the media." He agrees that staying active on Facebook, Orkut or twitter can prove to be very helpful for their work.
While Netra Shirke, one of the prominent political figures from the city states that it helps me connect with her people and she indeed loves the interaction. "Basically, I am on Facebook for some of the young voters of my ward, they have inspired me to take up my work on these sites. In fact, it works as a great way to stay in touch in the masses and also talk to them whenever they want to talk to me. It helps me keep updated with the activities happening in my ward, also helps me get people's feedback on certain issues," she mentioned. She is also planning to do something different this year, as she plans to send across Ganpati festival invitations to everyone through Facebook. Also she would be sending out messages and announcements about organising some games for youngsters through Facebook Netra is also on Twitter and she likes to tweet sometimes, as she doesn't find quite often.
Namdeo Bhagat, president of Navi Mumbai District Congress who has not yet taken to any of the social networking sites till date mentioned that he too has plans of joining one very soon. "Considering our area of work, being a social networking site is of great help. From making several event announcements to putting across your view on certain issues, these sites are very useful. In fact, I also want to interact with members from different wards and discuss developmental and other issues and interact with the masses about their complaints, etc.," he stated.
To add to this Bharat Nakhate, the deputy mayor of Navi Mumbai, mentioned that social networking sites have come in as a revolution in our lives. "Through these sites, people contact us personally and tell us about certain issues that they face in the city. In fact there are some issues that we have to tackle not just at the Navi Mumbai level but at a broader level, which can be done by being active on these sites," he added.
This is the first institute in city to get approval for executive MBA
The Pillai's Institute of Management Studies and Research (PIMSR) in New Panvel has claimed to have become the first institute in Navi Mumbai to have secured AICTE approval for the MBA (executive programme). An inaugural ceremony was held to commemorate the occasion on August 21 by associate director of PIMSR professor DC Pai at the Dr KM Vasudevan Pillai's campus.
The executive MBA programme was initiated by the institute in the year 2009 so as to cater to the need of working aspirants towards additional academic pursuit. The course is stated to bridge the lack faced by working executive in terms of academics pertaining to formal management education. "PIMSR has been in the forefront of academic up gradation and innovation.
This is the first institute in Navi Mumbai, Raigad area to get approval by AICTE for executive MBA programme.
"This is a 15-month course offered by executive development & research centre consisting of a 9-month comprehensive foundation course at the institute," said PRO Sujata V Rao.
The unique feature of the function was the oath taking ceremony by the new batch of students MBA (executive) towards spreading the knowledge gained for the socio-economic development of the country. Students will undergo a 6-month specialisation in HRD, finance, marketing, international business, operations for working in order to gain additional knowledge acquisition.
The participants of the programme are expected to complete a comprehensive project relevant to their field of specialisation.
"The hallmark of this course is a combination of class room lectures and corporate interaction and networking, innovative and up-to-date business training and hands-on learning with simulation exercises and case studies. The academic focus is on the strategies required for problem solving and decision making skills. The course ensures the students are responsive to the demands of the market place," adds Rao.
The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation's (NMMC) move to approach housing societies for unique identity (UID) card registration has apparently turned out to be a hit amongst residents. After DNA Navi Mumbai published a report about this the NMMC received similar requests from at least 15 housing societies. However, their demands can't be fulfilled at present due to unavailability of required number of machines, the corporation has cleared.
In the wake of rush witnessed at the centres set up for registering residents for the central government's ambitious project, rechristened as AADHAR, the civic body decided to reach out to the societies, located away from any government building and housing over 1,000 individuals, to streamline the process. After its successful execution of the idea at three societies in Nerul, more societies, especially from Vashi and Airoli, have demanded setting up of centres at their premises.
"As present, we are carrying out registrations at three societies in addition to 16 regular centres. Even as we received co-operation from society office-bearers, our pace of registering people has enhanced with more than 1000 people being covered in 10-15 days in a proper manner. Given the response, people from other complexes too have shown interest and want us to form centres at their buildings as well," a senior civic official said, requesting not to be named.
He added that the corporation needs more than 75 sets of machines to fulfill demands from other nodes. "We are trying to manage with the available machines. Once we receive the required sets, it will be easy for us to reach out to more people at their building premises. We hope to streamline the work further at our regular centres as we have three agencies working on the project now," he added.
Amongst the city nodes, Koparkhairane, where the project was launched, and Belapur have registered more number of residents for UID, the civic body has said.
Amit Bhanushali weighed 197 kg before his bariatric surgery in a city hospital
For Vashi resident Amit Bhanushali weight had become a major cause of concern in his life. The 32-year-old, who weighed 197 kilogram, was finding it difficult to move a few steps too and would suffer from pangs of breathlessness the minute he moved faster.
Amit was unsure on what would help him reduce his unwanted excessive fat. He took several opinions but his weight just kept increasing after every passing day. Soon he realised that he needed treatment and was willing to do anything for it.
Amit felt that obesity was causing great problem in his personal as well as professional life. The sad part is that obesity had made him diabetic as well. "Just like any other person I would eat everything be it vegetarian or non vegetarian food. Soon I realized that my weight was increasing and I needed to take necessary steps before it got too late. My wife has been a major motivating factor in my life and has been with me through all of it. She was the one who told me that I needed to get myself checked," says Bhanushali, a builder by profession.
Finally, Amit decided to meet Dr Raman Goel at Fortis Hospital, Vashi and it was decided that a bariatric (stomach) surgery would be performed on him. On August 2 Amit was operated, at the hospital. This two-hour long operation, was successful and Amit had managed to loose 20 kg in 22 days. "The best thing about bariatric surgery is that the patient will not only reduce his weight substantially but also will be able to get rid of the diabetes or other accompanying ailments.
Amit will lose more than 100 kg in the next 8-12 months and will be able to get rid of diabetes in the next 2-3 months," said Dr Goel. Generally, in a bariatric surgery, weight loss is achieved by reducing the size of the stomach through a simple laparoscopic procedure. With a reduced stomach size, a patient will not be able to indulge in food, as he would do earlier. Dr Ratandeep Chaskar, director, Fortis Hospital said, "Bariatric surgery needs to be done with the right set up and infrastructure. Special beds, apparatus and instruments are needed to operate upon such a heavy patient."
It is only in the first month of the operation that the patient is able to loose so much weight. In the following months the patient loses only around 7-8kgs of weight. "Currently I am only on liquid diet and now since my stomach size is much smaller, I feel full even if I drink a small quantity of juice," says Amit.
SBI GOLD DEPOSIT SCHEME (GDS) an ideal deposit plan for HNIs/Trusts etc.
SBI Gold Deposit Scheme (GDS) is in the nature of a fixed deposit in gold. The customers can deposit their idle gold under GDS which will provide them safety, interest earnings, tax benefits and a lot more. Under this scheme, you can deposit minimum 500 gram of gold with SBI and maximum as much as you want. Many Temples and trusts in India deposit literally hundreds of KGs of gold every year with SBI. Once you deposit your gold with SBI, The gold deposited is melted, assayed (tested) and minted (coined) at the India Government Mint (IGM) before the Gold Deposit Certificate is sent to the depositor within 90 days from the day the gold is deposited (The expenses incurred in this connection will be borne by the bank). It will indicate the weight of pure gold in the gold deposited, in 999 fineness. However, a provisional receipt is issued by the bank immediately upon receiving the deposit. With the help of the certificate, the depositor can claim the gold upon maturity of the deposit (alternatively, the depositor can claim back the INR equivalent of gold deposited at prices ruling on the day).
You will not get your jewellery back in the same form what you deposited. SBI melts the deposited gold and check the purity and then converts it into gold bars. Depending on the purity of the gold you deposited SBI send you a gold deposit certificate within 90 days. The Bank bears all expenses associated with this process. The gold is returned in bar/bullion or equivalent cash. If you deposit in bar or bullion, the Scheme is more beneficial.
However, unlike the regular deposits, interest here is calculated in grams and not in rupees. Thus, an investment of 500 grams of gold for three years shall earn 5 grams of gold as interest per annum, compounded annually. At the end of the maturity term, the interest so earned shall be converted into rupee equivalent of gold then and paid to the investor like other bank fixed deposit
For the principal investment, investor will have an option to claim back pure gold (0.999 purity) or cash equivalent of gold as on that day. The scheme is also attractive from tax perspective as the interest earned as well as tax on any capital gains arising from rise in price of gold after maturity is exempt from tax. Gold so deposited has also been exempted from wealth tax.
Main features of GDS are as follows
Purpose
To mobilize the idle gold in the country and put it into productive use.
To provide the customers an opportunity to earn interest income on their idle gold holdings.
Eligibility
Any Resident Indian of the following categories:
(i) Individuals, singly or jointly (as Former or Survivor)
(ii) HUFs
(iii) Trusts
(iv) Companies
Minimum Quantity
500 gms (gross)
(No upper limit for deposit)
Period of deposit
3 yrs,4 yrs or 5 yrs
Rate of Interest & Payment
The current interest rates w. e f. 01.09.2010 are: 0.75% p.a. for 3 years, 1.00% for 4 years and 1.00% for 5 years.
Interest is calculated in Gold currency (XAU) and paid in equivalent rupees.
Interest rate is subject to change.
Option for Interest Payment: Non-Cumulative (on 31st March) every year or Cumulative (On Maturity)
Acceptance of gold
Gold i.e. Gold bars, Coins, Jewellery etc. will be accepted in scrap form only.
Customers to submit Application Form, Identification Proof, Address Proof and Inventory Form.
Provisional Receipt issued at the time of acceptance of gold.
Issue of Gold Deposit Certificate
Gold Deposit Certificate will be issued by Nodal Branch (i.e. Bullion Branch, Mumbai) after the gold is melted, assayed and minted at India Govt. Mint (IGM).
The certificate will be issued for pure gold contents (i.e. in 999 fineness).
Multiple certificates (max 5) can be issued.
Gold Deposit Certificate (GDC) will be sent to the depositor within 90 days from the deposit of gold.
Effective Date
Date of assay certificate of IGM or 30 days of receipt of gold whichever is earlier.
Nomination facility
Available for deposits in single names in individual capacity.
Transferability
Transferable by endorsement and delivery.
Transfer to be noted with Nodal Branch.
Repayment
Option to take repayment of principal either in gold or equivalent rupees as on the date of maturity.
Premature payment
Premature payment permitted after a lock-in period of 1 year with a penalty on applicable interest rate
Renewal
Can be renewed any time after maturity provided the renewal is for a future period for the term and interest rate as available on the date of maturity
Loan facility
Rupee loans available at any branch of SBI up to 75% of the notional value of gold.
Tax benefits
Exemptions from Income Tax, Wealth Tax and Capital Gains Tax available.
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