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This May in Delhi, something intimate and quietly radical will unfold inside a gallery basement in Defence Colony. No protest slogans. No placards. Just thread, touch, sound, and a spinning wheel. On the evening of 18th May 2025 , Method Delhi will host a performance that defies genre, borders, and time. Titled Spinning Drones , this collaborative work by Smiha Kapoor (India) and Eva Ursprung (Austria) isn’t just another installation. It’s an immersive act of memory, resistance, and collective care—staged through the sonic transformation of India’s humble yet powerful charkha . You read that right. The same spinning wheel Mahatma Gandhi once used as a symbol of anti-colonial self-reliance has been reimagined as a sonic instrument —and not metaphorically. Through contact microphones, foot pedals, and braided threads that physically connect both artists, Spinning Drones brings together ancestral craft and contemporary sound art  in a way that’s tactile, raw, and emotional. To fully understand the soul of this work, you need to know where it comes from. Kapoor and Ursprung didn’t just pull a concept from thin air. The work draws directly from the Trinjan  traditions of Punjab —evenings when women would gather to spin thread, sing songs, and share oral histories. It was a quiet but essential practice of interdependence, healing, and knowledge-sharing . That energy flows into Spinning Drones—not nostalgically, but with urgency. At the heart of the performance, two artists sit tethered by a braided thread . The charkha spins. Sounds pulse, build, loop. As Kapoor and Ursprung interact with the spinning wheel and modified tools, their movements generate live soundscapes —sometimes drone-like, sometimes melodic, always textured. Through technology, the old wheel becomes a vessel of feminist resistance , embodying labour, intimacy, and the act of making as a political gesture. This isn’t a passive show. The audience is meant to listen closely , feel the vibrations, watch each motion. Nothing here is for spectacle. Everything is for connection. Beyond the performance itself, the space will be filled with interactive installations that continue the conversation between body, material, and memory. There are sculptures wrapped in water-sensitive fabric , designed to react to human contact. Every touch leaves behind a transient ink-like trace—a poetic but deliberate comment on impermanence and presence. Also part of the experience are "spindle flowers" , submerged in water across the exhibition space. They aren’t just decorative. They symbolize the regenerative, cyclical nature of craft, life, and care —things broken down and re-formed again and again. They add another layer to the installation’s emotional palette. Nothing in Spinning Drones is ornamental. Every detail serves a function—either sonic, symbolic, or participatory. That’s what makes this more than an art show. It’s a live experiment in presence, co-creation, and feminist imagination. This collaboration is especially compelling because of the backgrounds of the two artists involved. They come from different generations, geographies, and practices—but find common ground in their commitment to feminist, socially engaged work . Smiha Kapoor , based in India, works across performance, drawing, site-specific art, and participatory processes. Her art tends to begin in the body but opens into collective experience. She’s shown her work internationally—at NUS Museum , Institute of Contemporary Arts Singapore , and Schauspielhaus Graz , among others—and is known for creating environments where participation is not only invited but required. Her work often centers on embodied feminist knowledge —how care, resistance, and resilience live within and between bodies. Eva Ursprung , based in Austria, has been a vital part of feminist media and sound art since the 1980s. A founder of the magazine Eva & Co , she helped carve out space for women’s voices in Austria’s cultural scene. She’s also on the board of IMA (Institute for Media Archaeology) and has worked extensively with UpStage , a platform for online performance. Ursprung’s work is often critical of how technology interacts with the body and society, but she never isolates art from community. Through initiatives like Schaumbad – Freies Atelierhaus Graz , she’s championed collective creative spaces. Together, Kapoor and Ursprung aren’t just making sound. They’re spinning resistance from thread and tech, intimacy and memory. In a world marked by increasing political censorship, ecological collapse, and fractured communities , Spinning Drones feels timely—and necessary. It asks audiences to slow down. To pay attention. To understand that resistance isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it’s the quiet spin of a wheel, the echo of a drone, the act of reaching out and making something with your hands. It also opens up a powerful question: What does feminist resistance look like in 2025? It may not come in the form of rallies and protests alone. It might also come through the revival of shared labour, through acts of remembrance, and through deep listening. This work offers an alternative vocabulary of protest—one built not on confrontation but on care, connection, and sound . With locations in Mumbai and New Delhi , Method is more than a gallery—it’s a cultural platform built for experimentation, collaboration, and breaking away from the expected. Known for its openness to interdisciplinary work and politically urgent themes, Method continues to support artists who push the boundaries of art as we know it. It’s the perfect setting for a work like Spinning Drones—one that defies easy classification and invites you to listen, not just look. Event Details Spinning Drones: A Sonic Reimagining of Feminist Resistance and Collective CareBy Smiha Kapoor (India) & Eva Ursprung (Austria) Venue : Method Delhi, D Block, Basement, D-59, Block D, Defence Colony, New Delhi-110024 Date : 18th May 2025   Time : 7 PM onwards   (If you're redefining the world of art, decor, beauty, fashion, food, or books, or hosting an event that deserves to be noticed, we’d love to hear from you. Our editorial desk is open to receiving press releases, product samples, review books, and event invites that align with our editorial vision. Reach out to us at styleessentials.in@gmail.com to collaborate or send your materials for consideration.)

Two solo exhibitions open side by side this month at Method Kala Ghoda, and while they seem stylistically worlds apart, together they hold a strangely compelling tension — one rooted in quiet reflection, memory, and the kind of emotional processing that rarely finds a place in the rush of daily life. The shows — After Silence by Harshh Kumar and Inheritance of a Feeling by Dheeraj Jadhav — are not competing voices. They are parallel internal monologues, whispering different truths in the same room. You step inside the gallery and it doesn’t feel like entering a typical art show. Harshh’s works are upstairs, vibrant and intense, a riot of layered color and movement. It’s not chaotic, though — more like an emotional terrain trying to settle itself, unsure if it wants to scream or simply breathe. His canvases don’t explain themselves. They wait for you to ask the right question. There’s something incredibly tactile about Harshh Kumar’s way of building a visual language. He doesn't seek symmetry or pattern, but rather allows instinct to guide the hand — each gesture feels alive, almost like an exhale frozen in pigment. The works aren’t about what’s being depicted, because there’s no literal narrative here. They exist in that liminal space between sensation and memory — rooted in the textures of landscape, movement, internal shifts. In his hands, color becomes a living thing. It pulses with memory, with uncertainty, with presence. There's nothing decorative here. Every stroke has weight. Every hue seems to carry emotional residue, like an echo of something unspoken. Downstairs, the energy changes. Dheeraj Jadhav’s series works in stark contrast. His exhibition, Inheritance of a Feeling , is a meditation in black and white. There’s a single piece in color — and that alone tells you how intentional the entire arrangement is. You get the sense that everything here is pared back to its essential truth. The inkblots are not about Rorschach-style abstraction or some psychological game. Instead, they read like meditations — portals into an inherited emotional language that doesn’t rely on words. Dheeraj isn’t just referencing cultural memory or symbolism — he’s excavating it. The visual language leans into the rhythms of Banjara folklore, yet nothing about it feels performative or forced. It’s internal. Personal. He invites the viewer to pause, to reflect, to meet themselves in the mirrored forms. These aren’t symmetrical for symmetry’s sake. They feel like conversations — gentle confrontations with one’s own emotional terrain, shaped as much by silence as they are by feeling. Together, both exhibitions challenge the assumption that art has to “say” something in a traditional way. They are about holding space — for uncertainty, for transformation, for unresolved emotions. Where Harshh’s works are vivid and expressive, Dheeraj’s are restrained, quiet, yet piercing. One is storm, the other still water. But both dig deep into what it means to be human, to carry memory and feeling in the body, and to slowly find ways to let that surface. The choice to open both these shows together is a clever one. It allows for contrast, but more importantly, it fosters a kind of dialogue. As a viewer, you don’t just consume. You listen. You move between the two spaces — upstairs and downstairs — and you feel how the energy shifts, how your own emotional responses evolve. It’s hard to walk away from these exhibitions and not feel changed in some small way. Whether it’s the raw vulnerability in Harshh’s brushwork or the meditative pause in Dheeraj’s inkblots, both artists invite you to slow down, to listen inward, to engage with the parts of yourself that often get overlooked. For those unfamiliar with Method Kala Ghoda, this is a space that doesn’t just show art — it nurtures it. With a history rooted in experimentation, boundary-pushing, and community building, Method has grown into more than a gallery. It’s a platform for ideas, for voices that might not always fit neatly into the mainstream art circuit. And in bringing together two such introspective, emotionally resonant artists, they’ve once again demonstrated their ability to hold space for nuanced, layered work. The show runs until June 15, 2025. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply someone looking to connect with something that feels honest, visceral, and grounded, this is worth stepping into. Not because it offers answers — but because it helps you ask better questions. Exhibition Details: Exhibition Name: After Silence by Harshh Kumar & Inheritance of a Feeling by Dheeraj Jadhav Dates: 16th May – 15th June 2025 Venue: Method Kala Ghoda, Ground Floor and Mezzanine Level, 86, Nagindas Master Rd, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001 Timings: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily   (If you're redefining the world of art, decor, beauty, fashion, food, or books, or hosting an event that deserves to be noticed, we’d love to hear from you. Our editorial desk is open to receiving press releases, product samples, review books, and event invites that align with our editorial vision. Reach out to us at styleessentials.in@gmail.com to collaborate or send your materials for consideration.)

There’s something refreshing when an international brand goes beyond the usual template and actually creates something specifically for the Indian market. That’s exactly what Victorinox — the Swiss company best known for its original Swiss Army Knives — has done with its new watch drop. Called the I.N.O.X. Chrono India Edition , this release is a rare move: designed for India, made in Switzerland, and available here. Victorinox didn’t just localize a global watch model with a new box or minor tweaks. This is a limited edition release of just 500 timepieces that have been made with Indian buyers — and our cultural calendar — in mind. And that changes the conversation entirely. The India Edition comes in two variations. Both have a rose gold PVD case , which instantly gives them a warm, celebratory vibe. One keeps the bezel in rose gold as well, while the second pairs the rose gold case with a black PVD bezel , adding a layer of contrast. The black rubber strap ties it all together, giving the whole thing a balanced look. It’s clean and modern, but not sterile. It doesn’t try too hard to look festive, but clearly feels more suited to Indian celebrations than many cold, steel Swiss watches do. Victorinox has always had a reputation for design that leans towards functional minimalism. But here, they’ve added just enough visual richness — via the gold finish — to make the piece stand out during weddings, festivals, or any occasion that calls for traditional wear. That was exactly the point. Debraj Sengupta , Managing Director, Sales & Marketing, Victorinox India, puts it simply: “We had to have something special for India as this is a great way to connect with our culturally strong country. Hence, we launched the Rose Gold I.N.O.X. Chronograph in two versions — it’s the right connect for the myriad festivals that Indians enjoy. We made the right watch, a perfect fit for all the ceremonies that we celebrate in our country.” Each model is capped at 250 units — so while you may find one in a few key stores, this isn't a model that will be produced beyond this run. The intent is clear: it’s not about mass appeal; it’s about building connection and exclusivity. Beyond the visuals, the I.N.O.X. Chrono India Edition sticks to the Victorinox core: robust, long-lasting functionality . This isn’t a watch designed to sit in your dresser. It’s built to be worn — daily, if you want. The timepiece is made at the Victorinox Watch Competence Center in Delémont, Switzerland — the brand’s home base for watch innovation. It features: Antimagnetic protection Shock resistance ISO-certified water resistance (up to 200 meters) And a chronograph movement for added performance This means the India Edition doesn’t just rely on its looks to impress. It’s made to function in harsh environments, travel with you, take the occasional knock, and still keep perfect time. That’s a big draw for anyone who’s been burned by pretty watches that age badly or can’t withstand a bit of real-world wear. The design inspiration comes from the larger I.N.O.X. family , which Victorinox has often positioned as its most iconic line of watches. Arianna Frésard , Head of Category Watches at Victorinox, explains: “We have blended elegance, strong geometrics, and industrial codes in a combination of functionality, resistance, and innovative material mixes. The outcome reflects our industrial-derived ability to deliver modern sophistication.” There’s a subtle design language at play here — a watch that nods to Swiss architecture and engineering, while still respecting Indian aesthetics and taste. The clean lines, the precision of the dial, and the strength of materials all reflect the kind of attention to detail that has helped Victorinox remain a trusted global name for over a century. You’ll find them in: Mumbai – Phoenix Palladium, Oberoi Mall, R City Mall, Inorbit Mall, Mindspace, Seawoods Nexus, and both terminals of the T2 Airport New Delhi – Worldmark Aerocity Gurugram – Ambience Island Pune – Phoenix Mall of the Millennium Bengaluru – Prestige Falcon City, Orion Gateway, and Kempegowda International Airport Chennai – Express Avenue and Phoenix Marketcity Ahmedabad – Palladium Mall Indore – Phoenix Citadel Mall It’s also available online at helioswatchstore.com , tatacliq.com , nykaaman.com , ajio.com , and a few other platforms. The price is ₹ 89,000 , and it comes with a 5-year warranty , which is a notable commitment and something that buyers should take seriously. Watches in this range don’t always offer that kind of long-term support, especially not in limited editions. This release marks a bit of a shift. A global brand choosing to make something specifically for India — not by tweaking an old model, but by actually designing something from the ground up with Indian wearers in mind. It’s not just about color or materials. It’s about understanding how we wear watches — when, why, and what they need to do. Most Indians don’t treat watches like seasonal accessories. We wear them to weddings, religious festivals, airport lounges, Sunday brunches, and sometimes for years. A good watch here becomes a companion — not just a fashion piece. Victorinox seems to get that, and it shows in the details of this edition. It’s also a smart example of local relevance done right . No clichés, no forced motifs, no trying to mimic Indian design tropes. Just a well-made, good-looking, high-performance watch that reflects where India is in 2025 — modern, rooted, and global.   (If you're redefining the world of art, decor, beauty, fashion, food, or books, or hosting an event that deserves to be noticed, we’d love to hear from you. Our editorial desk is open to receiving press releases, product samples, review books, and event invites that align with our editorial vision. Reach out to us at styleessentials.in@gmail.com to collaborate or send your materials for consideration.)

In the heart of Mehrauli, right under the watchful eye of Qutub Minar, something new has quietly entered Delhi’s nightlife map. It’s called Mamma Killa. No posters, no reels, and definitely no red carpet drama. In fact, you can’t even click photos inside. That’s how low-key and high-concept this place wants to be. The man behind it is Zorawar Kalra, one of India’s most known names in hospitality. He’s launched everything from Farzi Café to Pa Pa Ya, but this time he’s going off-script. Mamma Killa is being pitched as India’s first Aztec-inspired bar, and while that sounds niche, the execution is anything but gimmicky. Spread across a 1300-square-foot rooftop space, it’s got terracotta walls, cane ceiling lights, shadowy corners, hand-drawn graffiti, and mosaic art pieces that feel like they were lifted straight from a South American street. It’s earthy, moody, and different from the shiny rooftop look Delhi is used to. Zorawar says it’s meant to be a space that feels old and new at the same time. Not ancient in a history-book way, but in a sensory way. The name comes from the Incan moon goddess, and everything about the place sticks to that—dim lighting, moonlit mood, earthy colours, and a strange, almost calming energy. Now coming to the real hook: the drinks. Mamma Killa isn’t about classics. The cocktail menu is wild. There’s one called Milky Way that mixes whiskey with hazelnut and umami. Another has tequila stirred with pesto, and one drink even looks like a pumpkin salad but is served in a cocktail glass. No, it’s not Insta bait. It’s serious mixology. There’s a cocktail trolley that moves from table to table, like something from a luxury train, and they mix your drink in front of you based on how you feel. Banana and fig, biscoff and caramel, vetiver and orange—everything sounds like a gamble, but works. You’re not drinking cocktails here. You’re having an experience that actually lingers. There’s food too, and it’s not just Latin or Indian. It moves between Nikkei flavours, Peruvian heat, Asian touches, and Delhi roots. But it’s the way it’s all wrapped together—no spotlight on the chef, no push for plating drama—that gives it a sense of quiet confidence. It’s not screaming for attention. It’s just doing its thing. This isn’t a bar for influencers. It’s not trying to be a viral spot. It’s a bar for people who want something they can’t scroll past. You either go and feel it—or you don’t. And that’s exactly what makes Mamma Killa stand apart. (If you're redefining the world of art, decor, beauty, fashion, food, or books, or hosting an event that deserves to be noticed, we’d love to hear from you. Our editorial desk is open to receiving press releases, product samples, review books, and event invites that align with our editorial vision. Reach out to us at styleessentials.in@gmail.com to collaborate or send your materials for consideration.)

There’s a new beat pulsing through Gurgaon’s Golf Course Road, and it’s not coming from the clubs — it’s rising from a place called Congo . A restaurant and bar that doesn’t whisper luxury, it growls it. It’s wild, textured, smoky, loud in all the right ways, and makes no apologies for it. Started by Anurag Dania and Abhishek Mathur, Congo isn’t trying to be just another plush space with mood lights. Backed by cricketer Suresh Raina and a solid crew of investors from Delhi NCR, the place brings the Congo Rainforest right into the city’s chest. You walk in and the world slows. Dark woods, tribal echoes, floating ceilings — the whole vibe feels alive, like the jungle itself might come peeking through the walls. And then the food hits. Bold. Fiery. Unexpected. There’s this Jhol Curry Malabari Chicken that arrives soaked in spice and memory — like your grandma’s coastal kitchen met a rainforest thunderstorm. The Wild Mushroom and Truffle Kulcha is pillowy and potent, the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes just to taste it properly. And the Lamb Rara Risotto ? Think slow-cooked Rara meat folded into creamy risotto, no fancy plating, just comfort that sticks to your ribs and heart both. Cocktails aren’t playing safe either. Tusker’s Tonic bites with black pepper and cools down with cucumber — it’s chaos and calm in one sip. Gauteng Groove brings tropical heat, and Nairobi Nectar goes sweet with passionfruit and African honey but never loses its edge. But what really makes Congo hum is its soul. It’s more than food and design — it’s about presence. Anurag calls it “elemental yet sophisticated.” Abhishek says, “wild elegance.” Call it what you want, but you feel it. There’s blood in the walls, there’s music in the dishes, and there’s a raw, primal energy that makes you sit up and pay attention. They’re not stopping at good food and good vibes either. Congo’s planning to train underprivileged youth in the culinary arts, build stronger sourcing from local producers, and keep that fire burning for culture that isn’t forgotten — just waiting to roar again.   (If you're redefining the world of art, decor, beauty, fashion, food, or books, or hosting an event that deserves to be noticed, we’d love to hear from you. Our editorial desk is open to receiving press releases, product samples, review books, and event invites that align with our editorial vision. Reach out to us at styleessentials.in@gmail.com to collaborate or send your materials for consideration.)

If walls could talk, the Akbari Darwaza in Lucknow would whisper stories of silken kebabs, perfumed biryanis, and courtly gatherings that shaped a kingdom’s culinary identity. Now, those whispers find voice in Bengaluru as JW Marriott’s JW Kitchen unveils Akbari Gate, a limited-period gastronomic showcase that resurrects the flavours of Awadh with rare authenticity. Chef Abdul Haleem isn’t just leading this showcase—he’s carrying forward a living legacy. Raised in a family of Awadhi khansamas, he brings more than skill to the table; he brings stories. Each dish on the Akbari Gate menu feels less like something cooked and more like something remembered. It all begins with playful yet rooted starters—Heeng Muttur ke Asharfi and Kabuli Kaju Shammi—small bites that surprise you with their depth. Then come the richer flavours: Murgh Tikka Murshid and the softly layered Keeme ke Tikiya. And right at the centre is the standout—Dora Kebab. Tied with thread, melting in seconds, it’s not just a dish—it’s tradition on a plate. No gimmicks, no fusion. Just the real thing, handed down, one generation to the next.Mains like Paneer Aish-e-Anaar, Gosht Rezaala, and Dal Teen Ratan are slow-cooked symphonies of richness, while live food counters turn out theatrical preparations like Raan ke Moti and Surkh Tawa Barrah, capturing the vibrancy of Awadhi street food culture with panache. Even biryanis here go off-script—Kathal Biryani and Bataanjan Alubukhara Biryani highlight seasonal produce and old-school spice layering that rewards the patient diner. The finale? A soulful serving of Sheer Khurma—not just dessert, but a memory folded in milk, vermicelli, and nostalgia. It ties the experience back to its roots, reminding diners that some flavours transcend time and celebration. “This is a tribute to the royal kitchens of Awadh,” says Chef Haleem. “We’re not just presenting food, we’re offering a cultural journey through recipes preserved over generations.”In an age where fusion often overshadows foundation, Akbari Gate reclaims the past with grace and integrity. It’s not just a meal—it’s an invitation to step through a historic threshold and rediscover India’s culinary soul.   (If you're redefining the world of art, decor, beauty, fashion, food, or books, or hosting an event that deserves to be noticed, we’d love to hear from you. Our editorial desk is open to receiving press releases, product samples, review books, and event invites that align with our editorial vision. Reach out to us at styleessentials.in@gmail.com to collaborate or send your materials for consideration.)

When the heat rises and the sun bears down with a vengeance, few things soothe quite like a cold, fruity pop that’s as clean as it is delicious. This summer, The Brooklyn Creamery—India’s go-to for guilt-free indulgence—has dropped a game-changer. Launching May 10th on Swiggy and Zomato, their all-new 100% Natural Fruit Juice Popsicles are here to offer pure refreshment with zero compromise. Created under the visionary leadership of Chief Innovation Officer Vasco Valença de Sousa, the new popsicle range captures what The Brooklyn Creamery does best: merging global innovation with a deep understanding of Indian tastes. The pops come in four sun-soaked tropical flavours—Blueberry Lemonade, Strawberry Split, Melon Magic, and Mango Mania—each vibrant, juicy, and bursting with real-fruit punch. At just ₹125 a pop, they’re affordable luxury in the middle of a hot day. What sets them apart isn’t just the flavour—it’s what’s not in them. No refined sugar. No artificial flavours. No preservatives. No dairy. Just four honest ingredients: water, agave, natural fiber, and real fruit. That’s it. The result? A popsicle that’s light on calories but full of joy. The agave adds a gentle, natural sweetness, and the fruit brings texture and brightness, without any of the guilt. In a space often crowded by synthetic syrups and neon colors, these popsicles come as a quiet revolution—clean, clear, and conscious. Naturally dairy-free, they’re also a treat for those who steer clear of lactose but still want something that feels like summer on a stick. “At The Brooklyn Creamery, we’re always pushing boundaries and introducing first-to-market products for Indian consumers,” says Shivaan Ghai, CEO of the brand. “From India’s first low-calorie chocobar to dairy-free sandwiches and mini cones, innovation has always been our identity. These 100% natural, low-calorie popsicles continue that journey—offering fun, fruit-forward indulgence with only clean ingredients.” The Brooklyn Creamery has long stood at the intersection of fun and function, delivering products that let people treat themselves without compromise. With this launch, the brand deepens its commitment to offering frozen delights that are better for you in every way—flavour, form, and formulation. And as the city simmers and the days get longer, there’s no better way to take five than with a fruit pop that’s as real as it gets. (If you're redefining the world of art, decor, beauty, fashion, food, or books, or hosting an event that deserves to be noticed, we’d love to hear from you. Our editorial desk is open to receiving press releases, product samples, review books, and event invites that align with our editorial vision. Reach out to us at styleessentials.in@gmail.com to collaborate or send your materials for consideration.)

In the fast-paced churn of Delhi’s airport district, where arrivals and departures dictate time, Four Points by Sheraton New Delhi Airport has quietly stitched together something far more lasting—a reimagined menu at its signature all-day dining destination, The Eatery. Led by Executive Chef Pradeep Semwal, the new offering isn't just about food—it’s about familiarity dressed in finesse, about regional roots elevated with a global gaze. Chef Semwal, who brings over two decades of culinary intuition honed across Southeast Asia and India, channels both heritage and innovation into the restaurant’s latest update. His hand is visible in every detail—from the deliberate sourcing of local, seasonal produce to the balance of indulgence and responsibility on each plate. There’s a gentle honesty in the way the menu reads—less spectacle, more substance. The mornings start wide and generous. Farm-fresh eggs, golden hash browns, and crisped sausages meet fluffy croissants and bowls of cereal for the continental souls, while loyalists of home-style comfort are greeted with warm Aloo Paranthas, cooling curd, and South Indian staples like Idlis and Dosas served with chutneys that taste like they’ve been made in someone’s mother’s kitchen. As the day unfolds, the menu takes deeper dives. A silken bowl of Dal Makhani sits as confidently next to a zesty Thai curry as it does beside a crisp Caesar salad. Each dish nudges the palate into something familiar, yet freshly interpreted. Tiramisu, soft as memory, and Gulab Jamun, sticky with nostalgia, bookend the meal, proving that East and West are not so much opposites as they are mirrors of each other in good hands. It’s more than variety—it’s intention. The Eatery’s embrace of a 'Farm-to-Table' philosophy is stitched seamlessly into its layout. Ingredients are not just locally sourced; they’re purposefully chosen to cut waste, elevate freshness, and support sustainable practices that are no longer optional—they’re essential. This new menu isn’t loud about its changes. It simply arrives, like a good story told well, familiar enough to comfort, surprising enough to make you stay a little longer. For the jet-lagged traveler, the working luncher, the weekend family, and the homesick international guest—The Eatery offers not just food, but the quiet confidence of well-made meals. And that, in a world of culinary theatrics, might just be the most modern thing of all. (If you're redefining the world of art, decor, beauty, fashion, food, or books, or hosting an event that deserves to be noticed, we’d love to hear from you. Our editorial desk is open to receiving press releases, product samples, review books, and event invites that align with our editorial vision. Reach out to us at styleessentials.in@gmail.com to collaborate or send your materials for consideration.)

Tucked into a quiet pocket of Kannamangala, away from the chaos of city life, Barnhouse opens its doors as a sanctuary where time slows down and food becomes a way to reconnect with the earth, the self, and each other. Rooted in mindfulness, its globally inspired vegetarian menu doesn’t shout for attention — it quietly impresses. Every dish is built around seasonal ingredients, every plate feels personal, and every bite invites guests to indulge without guilt. This isn’t just another “green” restaurant. It’s a way of life. With no air conditioning anywhere in the space, Barnhouse stays refreshingly cool through passive cooling techniques and thoughtful architectural choices. Stone from Pondicherry, hand-carved wood, Red Agra sandstone — every element is selected for both its texture and its story. It doesn’t just look like a resort, it feels like one. Children run barefoot on soft grass. Dogs rest beside their owners under mango trees. Parents sip botanical cocktails while weekend cooking activities keep the little ones curious. Nothing feels forced, nothing is performative. There’s joy in the simplicity — and that joy is contagious. The food is what truly ties everything together. Hand-rolled spinach and ricotta ravioli sits comfortably beside pearl barley risotto and massaman bao. Middle Eastern mezze platters share the menu with farm-fresh Indian specials. Most ingredients come from Barnhouse’s in-house hydroponic garden, grown without pesticides and full of flavor. To drink, there are French wines and Indian pours, small-batch botanical spirits, immunity-boosting mocktails, and local kombuchas. It’s a bar menu curated for those who want to feel good, not just feel buzzed. Founders Haresh Mipuri and Ratna Saluja call it “a mindful retreat” — a place where every choice, from the layout of the tables to the source of the produce, is deliberate. “We wanted to create a space where conscious indulgence meets global culinary craftsmanship,” they say, “not just a meal, but a meaningful, immersive experience.” Barnhouse isn’t trying to be trendy. It’s trying to be timeless. And that, perhaps, is what makes it feel so quietly unforgettable. (If you're redefining the world of art, decor, beauty, fashion, food, or books, or hosting an event that deserves to be noticed, we’d love to hear from you. Our editorial desk is open to receiving press releases, product samples, review books, and event invites that align with our editorial vision. Reach out to us at styleessentials.in@gmail.com to collaborate or send your materials for consideration.)

The holidays are almost here. School bags are slowly being zipped away. Alarms don’t ring as early. And children finally breathe out, knowing a few weeks of freedom stretch ahead of them. This break is when parents often wonder—how do we keep them engaged, curious, and off screens for at least part of the day? The answer is simple, timeless, and still undefeated: give them books. Reading is not just an academic skill. It is a window to the world. And the earlier children understand this, the richer their lives will become. The holiday season, with its slower pace and softer days, is a beautiful opportunity for families to bring back the ritual of reading—not as a task, but as joy. Children naturally mimic what they see. So, when parents sit down with a book, even for a few minutes a day, it creates a powerful visual imprint. A child who sees reading as part of daily life is far more likely to pick it up voluntarily. And here’s the magic—once the habit forms, books begin to take over. They become silent companions, entertainers, and teachers all rolled into one. There’s a reason why we’ve all heard it said: books are your best friends. It’s not just a cliché—it’s a quiet truth passed down through generations. What makes books so powerful is that they don’t just pass time; they shape perspective. A good story can do what no lecture can. It can teach empathy, resilience, imagination, and cultural awareness. Whether it’s a tale about a forest adventure, a girl chasing stars, or a boy navigating school with courage—books help children see themselves and others with new eyes. This holiday season, encourage your kids to read across languages. English books are important, yes—they build vocabulary, comprehension, and confidence. But regional language books carry a different kind of emotional depth. They connect children with their roots, their grandparents, and their culture. When a child reads in their mother tongue, they’re not just learning words—they’re absorbing identity. So don’t worry if your child prefers a Bengali folktale over an international bestseller or a Hindi comic over a famous English series. What matters is that they are reading. And the best kind of reading is the one done with pleasure. Let them choose. Let them explore. Also, don’t underestimate the impact of simple picture books or comics for younger kids. Visual reading stimulates creativity, builds association skills, and often becomes the starting point of a lifelong reading journey. And for older children, holiday reading can be a gentle entry into genres they haven’t tried yet—mystery, fantasy, biographies, or even poetry. Books teach us patience in a world obsessed with speed. They invite us to sit still, to imagine, to reflect. In a time where entertainment is just a tap away, the act of turning pages feels almost meditative. For children growing up in the age of reels and algorithms, reading is one of the few ways they can develop sustained focus, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence. Even fifteen minutes of reading a day can create ripple effects. It improves writing. It strengthens comprehension. It expands curiosity. And most importantly, it keeps the wonder alive. Because unlike passive screen time, reading is active engagement. It’s co-creation between the writer and the reader. And yes, reading as a family matters too. Storytime isn’t just for toddlers. Reading aloud—even a page or two of a short story—can become a treasured family ritual. Pick a time: post-lunch, before bed, or on a quiet Sunday afternoon. Let the voices come alive. Let the stories travel. The point isn’t to finish a book. The point is to build a bond—with stories, with language, with each other. So, as you shop for gifts this season, throw a few books into the mix. Wrap them up with as much love as you would a toy or gadget. They may not light up or play music, but they have the power to light up a child’s inner world in a way no device ever can. Give them fantasy. Give them folklore. Give them characters who win, fail, try again, and grow. Because one day, long after the toys are forgotten, your child might remember a certain book they read one winter holiday. And maybe, just maybe, it shaped who they became.

Some books arrive in your life like answers. Not loud or dramatic, but quiet and clear—like a voice you didn’t know you were waiting to hear. The Vertical Path by Tamanna C, published by Zorba Books is one of those rare books. Out of all the books I’ve received for the book review last week, The Vertical Path by Tamanna C quietly pulled me in. Maybe it’s because I’ve always been drawn to anything rooted in spirituality, or maybe it’s just the right book at the right time. Either way, this was the first book in years—if not ever—that I finished in a single day. I opened it with mild curiosity, thinking I’d just skim a few pages to get an idea, but what happened was something else. I was hooked by a certain stillness the book carries, something that speaks straight to the soul. I picked it up on Sunday morning and didn’t put it down until I’d finished every page. It’s written simply, but never shallowly. And more than anything, it felt like it was speaking directly to my current season of life. The author gently distinguishes between two kinds of journeys. One is horizontal—the kind we’re all too familiar with. It’s about goals, titles, identities, and the kind of progress the world can see and measure. The other, the “vertical path,” is inward. It’s slower, deeper, and often invisible to others. But it’s the path where true change happens—not in our status or possessions, but in our soul. What struck me most is how deeply relatable this book is. Tamanna doesn’t make you feel like you’re being lectured or led. Instead, she writes like someone who’s lived through confusion, silence, breakdowns, awakenings—and is now gently sharing what helped her climb out of them. Each chapter touches on something real and human: forgiveness, faith, karmic ties, anger, communication, surrender. These aren’t concepts that live in the clouds; these are emotions we carry in our everyday lives. And she helps you meet them with more clarity and calm. One of the things I loved most was the structure of the book. The chapters are short, so you never feel overwhelmed. You can easily open any topic—like patience, morning spiritual rituals, bedtime energy cleansing, or ego—and read it like a daily dose of perspective. And after every chapter, there are beautiful affirmations. These aren’t just pretty sentences, they’re reminders. Tiny pieces of light that you can carry with you into your day. In fact, this is the kind of book that doesn’t demand to be read cover to cover. It welcomes you to come back again and again, especially when you’re feeling stuck or uncertain. Whether you’re struggling with a difficult person, processing something unresolved, or just trying to reconnect with yourself, there’s something in these pages that offers a sense of direction, without force or fear. For me, chapters on surrender, faith, forgiveness, patience, and spiritual rituals were especially powerful. These are topics we all think we understand, but the truth is, we rarely slow down enough to really embody them. Tamanna reminds you to listen, not just read. She helps you create space inside yourself—to release what no longer serves you and choose what truly aligns with who you are becoming. There’s also something very reassuring about how the author blends the emotional with the practical. At the end of certain chapters, she shares bullet points—clear, applicable steps or reflections. Whether it's questions to ask yourself, habits to try, or simple thoughts to carry forward, they feel like tools you can actually use. And when you’re emotionally drained or mentally tired, having a step-by-step guide is a blessing. Another thing that deserves to be said—this is a book that brings peace. That word gets thrown around a lot, but here, I mean it in the truest sense. The Vertical Path doesn’t preach about how to be successful or how to “manifest” your dream life. It focuses on the only thing that really matters: how to be okay with yourself….with your past….with your inner world….with your choices. It’s not about becoming perfect—it’s about becoming present. Tamanna’s tone throughout is nurturing, but not sugar-coated. She’s honest about the emotional messiness we all experience. She doesn’t avoid uncomfortable truths. She addresses ego, approval-seeking, unresolved anger, and even the wounds that come from karmic ties. But she holds your hand through it all, offering not just understanding, but also a way forward. This book is also ideal for anyone who doesn’t have the energy for heavy theoretical texts. It’s spiritual, yes, but in the most grounded, accessible way. It won’t confuse you with jargon. Instead, it speaks to the part of you that simply wants peace of mind. And sometimes, that’s all we’re really looking for. Whether you’re just starting your inner journey or have been walking it for a while, The Vertical Path feels like an anchor. It reminds you that growth is not always about adding more—it’s often about letting go. About trusting timing. About being kinder to yourself. And about remembering that you’re allowed to feel lost sometimes—that doesn’t mean you’re not on the right path. If you’re someone who reads with a pen in hand, who likes to underline phrases and revisit pages that spoke to you, this book will give you plenty. It’s one of those reads that you’ll find yourself recommending not because it was impressive—but because it was needed. Its not just a book—it’s an experience. It’s a gentle call to return home to yourself. With every chapter, Tamanna C helps you peel back the layers you didn’t even know you were carrying. If you’ve been craving clarity, stillness, or just a deeper connection to your own truth, this one belongs on your bedside table. Book: The Vertical Path Author: Tamanna C Publisher: Zorba Books Also a vailable on Amazon India (This book review and art section is curated by Shweta, a certified NLP practitioner with a passion for writing about art, books, family, relationships, and her insights from conversations, books, and movies. If you would like your work to get published, feel free to send an email to the editorial desk of Style Essentials at styleessentials.in@gmail.com . We’d love to consider your work for an insightful review.)

Published by Srishti Publishers , one of India’s most promising and independent publishing houses known for giving some of the best-selling authors of India, this debut thriller, The Final Experiment by Yogesh SY sits comfortably in the company of novels that aim to both entertain and unsettle. Srishti has consistently put out voices that break formula—raw, unfiltered, not trying too hard to be 'literary,' but ending up that way anyway. And this book is no different. At the centre of The Final Experiment are two characters—Yaksh and Yudhisthir—who couldn’t be further apart in terms of background. Yaksh is what we all recognise: a middle-class man trying to hold it together, surrounded by noise, debt, unrest, and a silent kind of frustration that builds over time. His world is Delhi—chaotic, dusty, full of small violences we all brush past. Then there’s Yudhisthir, living the polished expat consultant life, a product of ambition and privilege, watching the world from soundproof glass and not realising the cracks are on his side too. What links them is Dyēus—a fictional tech firm so real in its conception it makes you squirm a bit. The kind of place you know exists somewhere behind glass doors, built on the language of innovation and powered by secrets. Yogesh SY doesn't explain everything. He leaves space. Space for suspicion, for fear, for curiosity. And that’s what makes the reading experience so personal—you’re not just being told a story, you’re piecing it together in your head, wondering what you’d do if it were you. The character of Yaksh really stuck with me. There’s no sudden transformation. No heroic arc. Just a man waking up slowly to the truth around him, feeling the weight of things that once seemed normal. His encounters with Vijita, a protest leader with her own quiet intensity, add a layer that’s more emotional than romantic. You can tell they don’t have time for a love story. They’re in something darker, something that asks for a different kind of connection—trust under pressure. Yudhisthir, on the other hand, is a man used to control. But in the sterile halls of Dyēus’s Tokyo offices, you feel that control slipping, even before he does. The genius of the book is that you start to feel paranoid before the characters do. That’s rare. There’s a creeping dread here, the kind that builds slowly, without the usual horror-movie theatrics. Yogesh SY doesn’t need to shock you. He just lets the implications sink in. And the science. It's speculative, yes, but terrifyingly believable. You don’t need a PhD to follow it. That’s the brilliance of it. The details are there, but they don’t overpower the human drama. Instead, they deepen it. The question isn’t just “What is Dyēus doing?” but “Why does this feel so possible?” and “Have we already gone too far?” There’s this one section where Yaksh starts realising that his life—his job, his location, even his conversations—might have been nudged by something or someone. It’s never explained in full, but the unease is perfectly crafted. That quiet suggestion that free will might be an illusion, especially in a world driven by data—that stays with you. The writing is measured. Not flashy. And honestly, that’s what makes it powerful. Yogesh SY isn't trying to show off. He’s not writing to impress. He’s writing to be understood. There’s restraint, even elegance, in how he lets moments play out. And that patience makes the story feel more grounded, even as the stakes climb. There are scenes in Delhi that feel so raw you can smell the air. And then there are scenes in Tokyo that feel like they’re happening inside a clean room—too perfect, too sanitized. That contrast isn’t just aesthetic. It’s emotional. You feel the difference between the lives people live and the systems that govern them. You feel the disconnect between what is real and what is orchestrated. There are moments where the plot thickens maybe a bit too much—especially around the corporate espionage angle—but that’s forgivable. Because the mood, the intent, the larger questions—those remain clear. You finish the book not just with a twist, but with a weight in your gut. A sense of having seen something you shouldn’t have. And what lingers the most are the questions. The ones that don’t get neat answers. What happens when progress outpaces morality? Who gets to define “good”? And how many of us would really choose to know the truth if it threatened our version of peace? The Final Experiment quietly works its way into your mind, building its tension slowly but steadily. If you're someone who likes a book that gives you room to think, a story where the atmosphere feels just as important as the plot, then this one will speak to you. It’s not rushing you to the end. It takes its time—and in doing so, it pulls you into its world, slowly. Book: The Final Experiment by Yogesh SY Author: Yogesh SY Publisher: Srishti Publishers Availability : Now available online and at major bookstores. Also available in paperback on Amazon India . (This book review and art section is curated by Shweta, a certified NLP practitioner with a passion for writing about art, books, family, relationships, and her insights from conversations, books, and movies. If you would like your work to get published, feel free to send an email to the editorial desk of Style Essentials at styleessentials.in@gmail.com . We’d love to consider your work for an insightful review.)