Madhuvanthi Senthilkumar the founder of this very unique online shopping site is a Chennai girl. The site is a platform for artists to collaborate and create design inspired by surreal spaces and popular culture. It is the perfect place for interesting designs and beautifully unique and creative art work. Definitely a must check out on our list ! http://www.thepostbox.in/
It’s time you did those tears justice and pulled out all stops to maximise on your look in ripped denim. Yes, the distress denim look is back and the world’s fashionistas are abuzz with new ways to wear them and not look trashy.
Here’s our take on how to spice up and glam up your look in ripped denim:
Wear your jeans with: A bold coat and high boots. Chic, yet classic and simple.
Wear your jeans with: A flattering wrap or slinky coat and chunky sandals. A look with an edge – not ultra glam but cool enough.
Wear your jeans with: A statement sweatshirt and a stiff button down. You could borrow your boyfriend’s Oxford shirt for this. And make sure you let your tresses hang loose.
Wear your jeans with: A designer handbag and pointy toe shoes. It’s the perfect celebrity look for a night out with your man.
Wear your jeans with: A flattering white T and red lipstick! Guaranteed to raise the temp around you a notch!!
Jewelry designer Varuna D Jani just launched her new collection – The Raindrop collection. It includes danglers, chandelier earrings and multiple strand earrings sets in diamonds. Studded with colored gemstones or pearl, each piece replicates the beauty of a rain drop. Just like how a stream of rainwater percolates to an end forming a drop before it hits the ground and disappears, the Raindrop collection signifies the same splendour.
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Disconnect To Reconnect
What is it about technology that is so alluring and addictive? Try as we might to deny it, the truth is we are hooked on the digital world, be it browsing, checking email, playing games, downloading music or simply texting. We spend so much of our time in the virtual realm that we are slowly, but surely losing contact with the human world.
RITZ gets chatting with some of the movers and shakers from South India to dwell on the pit-falls of being glued to electronic devices and understand whether or not it is necessary for us to sit back and find that elusive ‘off’ button, cut back on the digital stimulation and go on a much needed digital detox
Consuming too much technology is like eating empty calories without adequate nutrients. The brain gets overloaded with information and needs some ‘unplugged’ time to reprocess everything stored within. It’s true not everyone can switch off or unplug from technology for a set time each day, for it is critical to stay connected to work, family and friends. However, one must understand the need to impose upon themselves a periodic digital detox in order to stay sane and in human contact with the rest of the world.
Renowned author and business leader Subroto Bagchi, best known for co-founding Mindtree explains: “When the steam engine arrived or the first flight took off, people had some inkling of the impact but they had no idea of the consequences – whether negative or positive. As the world goes irreversibly digital, we are as ignorant of what the consequences would be in 10, 50 and 100 years, downstream. How may we change and morph and mutate? All I can say is that we should do everything in moderation, digital included. The genie is out of the lamp; we cannot crawl back to mother’s womb but irresponsible use of technology, deploying it to serve humanity or inhumanity, is a choice we must make. I believe, in the past, the human track record, for it hasn’t been disappointing. Things have worked out overall.”
Interestingly, people are now even using technology to take breaks from technology itself. One app called Freedom can be downloaded and set to block Internet access on a Mac or PC for up to eight hours to allow users time for offline productivity. Anti-Social is another productivity application for Macs that turns off the social media parts of the Internet. Digital Detox is a free app for Android smartphones that was inspired by Adbuster’s Digital Detox week and irrevocably disables a user’s phone for a user-specified period of time.
Disconnecting from technology has not stopped there. The trend has manifested itself as a sales tool in the travel industry with the creation of digital-detox vacation packages!
Mittu Chandilya, CEO of Air Asia India, is quite active on social media. He uses the platform as an effective tool to promote Air Asia in the country. Speaking on the subject of digital detox he says, “In today’s world of multitasking and split-second decisions, technological advances and the digital world are a blessing and a competitive advantage. There has never been a better way of reaching your customers, employees and all stakeholders in such a direct manner. Our smartphones are probably the one thing we can’t leave home without. For me, personally, this is critical and I rely on it tremendously. I do think a digital detox is a very good concept for medical reasons (studies are still being conducted on the effects of mobile phones and the screen’s blue lights effect), relaxing the mind to think more clearly and getting some real downtime. But I think in today’s world, especially in particular sectors, it’s hard to go on digital detox.”
The benefits of a digital sabbatical are many. Research has shown that too much tech can interfere with sleep patterns, making us feel insecure and often hyperactive and restless.
GV Keshav Reddy, grandson of GVK Reddy (Founder Chairman and Managing Director of GVK, the Hyderabad-based infrastructure conglomerate), advocates the need for periodic digital detox in order to stay sane and physically and emotionally connected to the world. “Yes, one should definitely go on a digital detox because it allows you to embrace the moment and enjoy the world around. I love going on a digital detox especially when I’m on a holiday on a beach or near a forest. That’s when you actually realise how much beauty you’re missing out on, otherwise,” he tells.
He might be considered the Willy Wonka of the digital world, but the fact remains that in an interview with Walter Isaacson, Steve Jobs revealed that not only did he and his wife limit how much technology their kids used at home, his children did not even have iPads! Issacson, the author of ‘Steve Jobs’ has said: “Every evening Jobs made a point of having dinner at the big long table in their kitchen, discussing books and history and a variety of things. No one ever pulled out an iPad or a computer.”
Jobs wasn’t the only tech giant to impose strict limitations on the kid’s screen time – many Silicon Valley titans ban all digital gadgets on school nights and allocate austere limits for weekends. Chris Anderson, the former editor of Wired who’s now heading up drone maker 3D Robotics, has stringent time limits and parental controls on every device in his home.
Speedster and Formula 1 driver Karun Chandhok feels that a periodic break from the digital world can only be beneficial for us. “I feel that it is important to take some time off from the digital world. Because with emails and text messages people expect replies instantly and you miss out on what’s happening around you. I get my detox when I get cycling because I normally switch my phone off and enjoy the peace for a while. I also fly a lot so my time on flights is a detox period as well. I hate that planes have WiFi now because I really enjoy those ten hours to myself,” he says.
Hyderabad-based actor and producer Allu Sirish agrees with Chandok’s view. “Yes, a digital detox is a must. Technically, the brain can’t multi-task; it can only do a rapid-switch between two tasks which only reduces the brain’s processing speed and power. Constant beeps, alerts and notifications disturb our ability to stay focused and immersed in one task. The only way to be focused and immersed is to “be offline” during crucial tasks,” he declares. “I go on a digital detox in a small way, everyday. I switch off the “data” on my phone while watching a movie, going for meetings or doing a task that needs focus. It’s a huge challenge to be disconnected, but then I push myself to do it.”
Indraneel Ganguli, Global Head, Tech Mahindra contributes valuable insights on the subject of digital detox. He says, “Today, either we are connected, or asleep – even wellness devices are monitoring our sleep! But it is important for us to recognise that just being on a network, with a device and on a channel, does not make us better thinkers, doers and communicators. We need to try and carve out time to introspect, reflect and find the pristine joys of nature and life through one’s faculties. So if time is the new currency of success, spend it well.”
Like many who haven’t heard of the term before, Suchitra Ella, Co-founder and Managing Director of Bharat Biotech International Limited finds the concept and idea of undergoing digital detox intriguing. “Interesting description!” she comments. “I haven’t tried it so far thanks to my hectic work schedule. My role in Bharat Biotech demands that I respond to the communication I receive, instantly. Yes, there are times when it’s overwhelming but the option of staying away from the cyber world is daunting. Nevertheless, early mornings and late evenings are totally dedicated to my family when I’m with them. That’s my time of digital detox.”
Take a tech-free vacation, enforce a Sunday gadget-free rule at home, impose a one-day-a-week ban on technology for yourself, refrain from checking your Facebook account as soon as you wake up – a break from digital communication, whether for a day or a few hours each day, can refresh us and enable us to become more productive in human relationships and at work. Your hands may itch for something to tap on and you might just imagine your phone is ringing in your pocket. But eventually your brain will get back to normalcy and you will reconnect with the things that really matter in life.
Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, Chairman and Managing Director of Biocon Limited, shares intuitive advice. “There is no either or situation, I strongly favour the idea of embracing technology and getting connected digitally. This is a communication era which has really transformed our lives through 24×7 access to a wide variety of information available through views, ideas, opinions, shared on various social and digital platforms from people across the world. In that sense it has truly created networks that transcend geopolitical boundaries. However, we must remember that tech-nology can never replace the warmth of genuine, caring human relationships. So, individuals who have been spending too much time locked in their virtual worlds may find a periodic ‘digital detox’ necessary to rejuvenate their health and their relationships. I think by and large, mature users strike a fine balance between the time spent online and offline with their friends and family.”
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Mittu Chandilya, CEO of Air Asia India
Mittu Chandilya, CEO of Air Asia India, is quite active on social media. He uses the platform as an effective tool to promote Air Asia in the country. Speaking on the subject of digital detox he says, “In today’s world of multitasking and split-second decisions, technological advances and the digital world are a blessing and a competitive advantage. There has never been a better way of reaching your customers, employees and all stakeholders in such a direct manner. Our smartphones are probably the one thing we can’t leave home without. For me, personally, this is critical and I rely on it tremendously. I do think a digital detox is a very good concept for medical reasons (studies are still being conducted on the effects of mobile phones and the screen’s blue lights effect), relaxing the mind to think more clearly and getting some real downtime. But I think in today’s world, especially in particular sectors, it’s hard to go on digital detox.”
Indraneel Ganguly
Indraneel Ganguly, Global Head, Tech Mahindra contributes valuable insights on the subject of digital detox. He says, “Today, either we are connected, or asleep – even wellness devices are monitoring our sleep! But it is important for us to recognise that just being on a network, with a device and on a channel, does not make us better thinkers, doers and communicators. We need to try and carve out time to introspect, reflect and find the pristine joys of nature and life through one’s faculties. So if time is the new currency of success, spend it well.”
Subroto Bagchi
Renowned author and business leader Subroto Bagchi, best known for co-founding Mindtree explains: “When the steam engine arrived or the first flight took off, people had some inkling of the impact but they had no idea of the consequences – whether negative or positive. As the world goes irreversibly digital, we are as ignorant of what the consequences would be in 10, 50 and 100 years, downstream. How may we change and morph and mutate? All I can say is that we should do everything in moderation, digital included. The genie is out of the lamp; we cannot crawl back to mother’s womb but irresponsible use of technology, deploying it to serve humanity or inhumanity, is a choice we must make. I believe, in the past, the human track record, for it hasn’t been disappointing. Things have worked out overall.”
Kiran Mazumdar Shaw
Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, Chairman and Managing Director of Biocon Limited, shares intuitive advice. “There is no either or situation, I strongly favour the idea of embracing technology and getting connected digitally. This is a communication era which has really transformed our lives through 24×7 access to a wide variety of information available through views, ideas, opinions, shared on various social and digital platforms from people across the world. In that sense it has truly created networks that transcend geopolitical boundaries. However, we must remember that tech-nology can never replace the warmth of genuine, caring human relationships. So, individuals who have been spending too much time locked in their virtual worlds may find a periodic ‘digital detox’ necessary to rejuvenate their health and their relationships. I think by and large, mature users strike a fine balance between the time spent online and offline with their friends and family.”
Vishal Reddy
Thousands of amazing opportunities, people, walk by every hour while our faces are buried into our devices. Smartphone is one amazing channel for communication and information exchange, not the only one and certainly shouldn’t be the primary one. Meaningful relationships are built and real personal development occurs through social interactions, a skill that is being constrained with reduced exposure to real people. Let’s consciously utilise the numerous benefits of technology as a tool and combine with the consciousness of real world surroundings to become the ultimate evolved beings we ought to be!
Allu Sirish
Hyderabad-based actor and producer Allu Sirish agrees with Chandok’s view. “Yes, a digital detox is a must. Technically, the brain can’t multi-task; it can only do a rapid-switch between two tasks which only reduces the brain’s processing speed and power. Constant beeps, alerts and notifications disturb our ability to stay focused and immersed in one task. The only way to be focused and immersed is to “be offline” during crucial tasks,” he declares. “I go on a digital detox in a small way, everyday. I switch off the “data” on my phone while watching a movie, going for meetings or doing a task that needs focus. It’s a huge challenge to be disconnected, but then I push myself to do it.”
GV Keshav Reddy
GV Keshav Reddy, grandson of GVK Reddy (Founder Chairman and Managing Director of GVK, the Hyderabad-based infrastructure conglomerate), advocates the need for periodic digital detox in order to stay sane and physically and emotionally connected to the world. “Yes, one should definitely go on a digital detox because it allows you to embrace the moment and enjoy the world around. I love going on a digital detox especially when I’m on a holiday on a beach or near a forest. That’s when you actually realise how much beauty you’re missing out on, otherwise,” he tells.
He might be considered the Willy Wonka of the digital world, but the fact remains that in an interview with Walter Isaacson, Steve Jobs revealed that not only did he and his wife limit how much technology their kids used at home, his children did not even have iPads! Issacson, the author of ‘Steve Jobs’ has said: “Every evening Jobs made a point of having dinner at the big long table in their kitchen, discussing books and history and a variety of things. No one ever pulled out an iPad or a computer.”
Jobs wasn’t the only tech giant to impose strict limitations on the kid’s screen time – many Silicon Valley titans ban all digital gadgets on school nights and allocate austere limits for weekends. Chris Anderson, the former editor of Wired who’s now heading up drone maker 3D Robotics, has stringent time limits and parental controls on every device in his home.
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It’s official!
Men spend more time on personal grooming than women. New research reveals that the modern man is more image-obsessed than ever, spending over four years of his life perfecting his appearance. Women, on the other hand, spend only three years!
Tackling dark circles, managing facial fuzz, sorting out stray hairs, nail and foot care routine, periodic trips to the barber, using the right hair products, sorting out the perfect scent and learning how to manscape properly… the list is endless. From the season’s latest fashion, to sessions at salons, spas and using high-end cosmetics, today’s metrosexual man shames his woman counterpart on all counts.
Says Swati Gupta, owner of the Bodycraft chain of spas and salons in Bengaluru, “On an average we must be seeing about 30 to 40 men visit our salons on a weekday and a busy weekend sees the number rising to about 80 to 100.” She adds, “Men these days are indulging in all kinds of services. While they definitely all opt for hair services, a lot of men go for services like facials, manicures, pedicures and body spa treatments. “In fact some men come to us for waxing services also.”
Prasad Bidapa, fashion guru from Bengaluru says, “Grooming is the hallmark of a civilised male. From well groomed hair to a perfectly maintained moustache and beard if you have one – a fortnightly visit to your barber is essential.” He adds that regular facials, both clean up and deep moisturising ones keep a man’s skin healthy and supple. “Sun blocks and moisturiser are essentials for this polluted world we live in. The skin on your body is just as important, regular massages and scrubs with shikakai powder or sea salt are invigorating,” he feels.
Today’s metrosexual men have preferred destinations abroad where they take a much needed break and indulge in some relaxation and grooming rituals. Five-time Indian swimming champion Rehan Poncha is one of those sportsmen who likes to maintain a perfect image, both in and out of the pool. Having recently graduated to a more gentlemanly sport – golf – Poncha’s image has altered dramatically once he hit the greens.
He says, “Men in general, I think, are now quite particular about their appearance. As a swimmer, it was fairy simple with just swim trunks and goggles. You worked out in the gym and it showed on deck! Now, with golf, and corporate events and swim workshops, I certainly make an extra effort to look good while training, teaching or talking! If it’s a professional appearance my manager spends that extra time to make sure my suit is the best fit and the look is perfect. So I wouldn’t compare, but I’d definitely agree that men are equally particular about their look now.”
Rehan is not shy to admit that he does have a specific grooming routine. He says his daily routine consists on shower, shave, after-shave and out. But if he has a formal event to attend, or a professional appearance, then his stylist usually gets him to spend a little more time on styling his hair. “It’s also fun experimenting with different looks from clean shaven, to stubble to a full beard, depending on my mood and I do that a lot, often ending with a selfie that goes on to my social media and generates a ridiculous amount of dialogue that’s very amusing,” he quips, flashing his trademark cheeky grin.
He also confides that his weakness is spa treatments and that like many other men he has his favoured haunts. “The Sofitel in Mumbai does a great deep tissue massage. There’s a nice UK chain called Truefitt and Hill which has now opened in India that I’m enjoying. They offer a great head massage, and also shaving and haircuts and it’s great ambience and service,” he tells.
Bindiya Dharia of Jean Claude Biguine Salons, Bengaluru, says: “It’s an upswing trend where we are seeing men becoming more receptive towards embracing grooming services of international stand-ards. Growing consciousness among men about not only looking stylish but feeling good has got them to experience various kinds of treatments ranging from not only hair cuts, colour and body massages but to pedicures, hair express rituals and waxing.”
Bengaluru-based real estate magnate and businessman Sanjiv Shanmugam is probably one of the city’s most elegantly turned out men. From sporting the season’s latest looks to following current trends and fashion fads, Sanjiv makes no bones of the fact that he likes to spend time and money on himself to look his best.
“I don’t think men spend more time on grooming than women, but we’re surely giving them a run for their money,” he tells with a laugh. He states that he prefers male grooming products from brands such as Clinique and that he visits a salon once a week and a spa at least twice a month. He’s even charted out a schedule for himself – a hair trim and beard shaping every Friday! Just in time to get the look together for a hot weekend on the city’s party circuit.
Actor Upen Reddy from Hyderabad says that his life in front of the camera is all about being groomed, so, over a period of time it becomes a part of who you are. “There is no specific time allotted to grooming and you get used to being groomed always,” he tells. The hallmark of proper grooming, according to him, means being hygienic. “You can have the best wardrobe in the world, but if you’re not clean, nothing or no amount of mak up is going to cover that up,” he adds. Being in the profession where looking good is his main job, Upen says that he has no account of how much he spends on grooming rituals each month. “I just know that money is extremely important for men to remain well groomed these days.”
Today, most salons and spas in big cities cater to both men and women. Celebrity stylist and salon director of the Rossano Ferretti Salon at The Ritz-Carlton Bengaluru, Carlos Saavedra opines, “I don’t think men spend as much as women on beauty treatments or products, but for sure it is an undercover market. Everyday men are more aware of themselves and how they look, but they don’t talk about it. I believe the men’s grooming industry is still half hidden, but very profitable.”
Splash has opened a new store in Express Avenue and it is on our must check out list. With various sub brands of clothing in the store they have something for everyone. The line of clothing is fresh , in style and will keep you coming back for more !
Dunkin Donuts outlets seems to be spreading like fire. The first franchise opened in Inorbit Mall in April and now, their second store opened in Banjara Hills on May 9th. Hyderabadis had to wait in a long queue for almost an hour to get their hands on some of their donuts! 
DD will be opening up in Chennai soon too!
Katrina Kaif at the Cannes in a red Elie Saab dress actually made us stop working for 10 minutes because we were just staring at how elegant and gorgeous she looks! We are totally crushing on the outfit right now! Sigh.
Hola Cafe , set just off Besant Nagar beach on the roof top has an ambience that is perfectly romantic. With dim lighting, lovely sea breeze and soft music it seems like the perfect place for a date. The pizzas are fresh and have interesting toppings and are absolutely delicious. The Tacos are not authentic Mexican but are filled with flavour. Their salads were interesting and made with the freshest ingredients, on the whole it was a nice quiet meal by the beach!
They’re hot – both on and off the field. And fans love to emulate their every action. Here’s a look at trending haircuts from some of IPL’s top players
Virat Kohli
The poster boy for Indian cricket has always been obsessed with his hair. And his present IPL look has made waves with his fans. Looking dapper – sort of like David Beckham – his new cut gives him a rakish sort of appeal, making more and more female hearts go pitter-patter.
Shikhar Dhawan
The rough-and-tumble look has been his trademark. Prominent handlebar moustache and a close buzz give him a mean edge. It’s not just the perfect look for the summer, it’s a look Shikhar’s been maintaining for a while now. And we think it suits him just fine.
Mahendra Singh Dhoni
From long and blond to short and simple, the Indian skipper now maintains a simple close crop, choosing to show off his salt and pepper highlights. We must say that marriage and now fatherhood have definitely highlighted the mature side of Dhoni. And it’s a look that he carries off with much aplomb.
Murali Vijay
Always stylish and well aware of his good looks, Murali Vijay has come into this season of IPL with a slightly rakish touch to his look. Sporting a moustache and beard the batsman from Kings XI Punjab has the sides of his hair kept short and light while the top has more volume and length, a look that just adds to his swagger!
Kat Kick-Starts Cannes Debut
Kick starting her debut at Cannes, Katrina Kaif spoke to Indian and International media about her first time at the film festival. Flaunting sleek burgundy hair with luminescent makeup and a nude lip, Katrina looked gorgeous in a white crop top and skirt with shoes by Manolo Blahnik and jewellery by Maria Francesca Pepe. She also gave her fans a glimpse of the edgy style she’s planning to showcase while at the French Riviera with some interesting images that she posted on her social media handle @KatrinaAtCannes.
Sonam Strives To Stay Svelt
Bollywood fashionista Sonam Kapoor, who is a Cannes Film Festival regular since 2011, is pulling out all stops to make a stellar appearance and wow every one as she celebrates her 5th year at the Red Carpet this time. Naturally, the L’Oréal Paris Brand Ambassador is making sure that all kinds of preparations required for the festival are perfect. While a lot of emphasis is being put on what will she wear for each of her red carpet appearance, Sonam is also ensuring that she exercises well, eats right and gets proper rest.
The beautiful actress has been taking out 2 hours each day from her busy schedule to dedicatedly follow her skincare and beauty regime. Here are a few pictures that we recently got of the diva undergoing her training for Cannes. In these pictures, Sonam is seen sweating it out at the gym and then digging in into a healthy meal.
Courtyard by Marriott Chennai offers you, a special weekend package offer to enjoy 20% off on all facilities at the hotel. The wallet smart weekend package includes a well-appointed deluxe room (with complimentary internet), buffet breakfast and one major meal at the coffee shop.The offer is only valid for stay during the weekend; Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The Weekend package offer is available till December 2015. The cost per night starts from INR 4250 – 7250. So if youre looking for a nice luxurious weekend , you know where to go !
The Paint Box is an initiative which was conceived over a year ago when four people decided to take things into their own hands, and clean up the city. Namrata R, Hari Haran, Tejas Ramaratnam, and Eshwar Kaushik began cleaning popular areas in the city, and brightening up the area by painting the walls. Over they have painted the wall of the Mandaiveli train station and the wall of the Boys Club on Elliots Beach in Besant Nagar. The walls have paintings filled with colour and have extremely eye catching paintings. Look around these areas and you are bound to see a few. 
Gone are the days when everyone would complain there are no gigs happening in Hyderabad. Sure, it’s been a snail-paced evolution from a dead music scene to today’s “there’s-a-gig-every-night-of-the-week” scene. Here are 5 musicians we think you should check out while you’re in Hyderabad.
1 – Arpit Chourey: Who says Hyderabad lacks talent. Whoever did surely hasn’t seen Arpit perform! An Associate -Financial Advisory Services in an MNC by day, and musician by night, he can strum a 6 string like no other whilst playing the harmonica (mouth organ). He’s a one man show and if you’re looking for some Folk Rock/Pop, Indie Rock and Acoustic Rock, Arpit’s your –go-to-guy!
2 – Pranati Khanna Razvi: This 22 year’s idiosyncratic vocals can make your day when she belts out some old school rock and pop numbers. Whether you want The Beatles or Bruno Mars, at Pranati’s gig, you’re sure to sing along! What sets her apart, are the vocals and that means, you have to check her out.
3 – Shiv Menon: If you’re looking for someone who plays the blues like it’s meant to be played, then Shiv is your man. Not just the blues though, this guitarist can play literally anything from John Mayer to Led Zeppelin and even Hindi on request.
4 – Leenus Livingstone: A founder, lead guitarist, songwriter and composer of the UK Hard Rock – Heavy Metal Band Metalloid. Now settled in Hyderabad, Leenus will take you back to your musical roots via his rocking renditions of bands like Guns n Roses, Bryan Adams and the works.
5 – Ferdinand Dsouza: If you’re looking for an entertaining evening where you not only see some skills on the strings, but have fun listening to covers that will have you dancing in your chair and originals that are inspired by life and his friends. With a voice like Eddie Vedder’s and skills like no other, there’ll never be a dull moment when Ferdie’s up on stage.
