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elite life

VOL-1 ISSUE-4
FEBRUARY 2009

Retreat
Far from the
madding crowd!

Food for
Thought
Back to basics

Haven
Budget a la mode

Living in
Harmony
A wholesome life
From the CEO’s desk
Dear elite customer,

At the onset of the New Year, I would like to wish you and your dear ones a
happy, peaceful and secure 2009.

I am pleased to share with you that our consistent efforts to service our
customer needs have recently gained international recognition. ICICI
Prudential Life has been awarded the Life Insurance Company of the Year at
the 12th Asia Insurance Industry Awards 2008.

In keeping with our customer centric philosophy, we have launched a Return


Guarantee Fund - a close ended debt fund with our Unit Linked Insurance
Plans (ULIP). The money invested in this fund will be ensured a minimum
guaranteed NAV at the end of 5 years. In today’s volatile market scenario,
this offers our customer an excellent proposition by the way of a guarantee
over and above other benefits offered by the ULIP he chooses.

We have also taken a step ahead in our commitment towards meeting your
health needs with the launch of an innovative product. Health Saver is a
comprehensive health insurance plan which covers your current healthcare
expenses and also invests for future healthcare expenses. It is also the first
of its kind reimbursement-based hospitalization cover with the benefit of a
health savings fund. The product is designed to enable consumers to cope
with the ever-rising cost of healthcare.

elite life
As on December 31, 2008, we have crossed the 7.5 million policies mark and
manage over Rs 28,445 crores worth of funds, while our renewal premium
collections have increased to Rs 5,427 crores.

These accomplishments have become a reality through your support and I


thank you for the trust you have reposed in us.

Sincerely,

Shikha Sharma
Managing Director & CEO
ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Company Limited

Do write in to eliteservice@iciciprulife.com with your feedback and suggestions.


elite life
For Private and Privileged Communication Only.

Living in Harmony 04
Young couples today live up to the challenge
Cover Story
of juggling work, family and social obligations.

Health Capsule
08
Wellness Updates from the world of health, fitness and
nutrition.

10 Food for Thought


Opt for organic foods; they are a healthier
option.

14 Invigorate
Dance your way to fitness!

17
Sports Connect
Unwind Here’s how you can participate in the next
marathon.

20 Retreat
This weekend, sneak off to one of these
romantic hideaways!

Haven
26
Élan You want a pad that’s trendy and affordable;
here’s how...

30 Artefact
A look at pan-Indian art forms
34
News & Ensure
Views News you can use from ICICI Prudential Life
Insurance.

41 Money Matters
A recap of the latest market movements and
an outlook for the next quarter.

ICICI Prudential Life


Insurance Managing Editor
42 Priya Nayak
Succeed Empower ICICI Prudential Life
Insurance Editorial Board
Marriages are made in heaven; or are they? Agnel Dsouza
Deep Chakravarty
Sunita Dujari

Spenta Multimedia
45 Inspire Executive Publisher
Meet celebrity couple Sanjeev and Maneck Davar

Alyona Kapoor... Editor


Madhavi Gokhlay

48 Bookmark Art Director


Book excerpts from Imagining India and Rishita Chandra

Outliers Graphic Designers


Yogesh Jadhav
Prachi Bhide

Printed and published by


Maneck Davar, Spenta
Multimedia, on behalf of ICICI
Prudential Life Insurance, Editor

Soothsayer 52 Priya Nayak.


Tarot Disclaimer: The views and opinions
Your fortune foretold through tarot cards. expressed or implied in ELITE LIFE
are those of the authors and do not
necessarily reflect those of Spenta
Multimedia or ICICI Prudential Life
Insurance Company Limited. All advice
and suggestions given in the articles
are the author’s own and are not the
advice of ICICI Prudential. The reader
may follow the said advice at his/
her own risk. It is suggested that the
opinion of an expert be taken before
following any advice given in the
magazine. ICICI Prudential shall not be
liable for any loss/harm caused due
to following any advice printed in this

Mind games
55 magazine. Unsolicited material is sent
in at the owner’s risk and the publisher
Puzzles & accepts no liability for loss or damage.
Quizzes Exercise your mind with fun puzzles and Material in this publication may not
quizzes. be reproduced, whether in part or in
whole, without the consent of Spenta
Multimedia and ICICI Prudential Life
Insurance Company Limited.
Cover
Story

Young working couples are more the norm rather


than the exception today. With 24x7 lifestyles,
balancing work, family and social obligations is
indeed very challenging. But it’s not rocket science!

Tanyushka Hansotia

Living in
Harmony

T oday, you come across working couples wherein both


partners are productively engaged in jobs/careers/
businesses even as they go about fulfilling their marital,
parental and social obligations with practiced ease. While
men have been looked upon as breadwinners and caretakers
of the family, more and more women are now finding
themselves in such similar roles.
04 elite life February 2009
Whether there’s a need to work
or it’s a matter of personal
choice, women today are
required to hold fort not only at
home but also in their respective
careers/businesses. Thus, new-
age couples must face the
challenge of juggling between
the demands placed upon them
by their careers/businesses and
their families. Needless to say,
you need to be as skilled as a
trapeze artist to achieve this
kind of delicate balance in your
relationship.
You might be busy working your
way up the corporate ladder
but it needn’t come at the cost
of your married life. This trade-
off between career goals and
marriage is something each
partner needs to work out and
abide by. It is difficult but not

You can, with a little bit of planning and


prioritization, effectively juggle between
work, family and societal obligations.
impossible. As is with everything If you happen to be the ‘more the hideout or simply playing snooker
else, a little bit of planning can merrier’ kind, social gatherings/ at your friendly neighbourhood
go a long way in helping couples outings with friends and relatives club. The simplest thing might
achieve balance between work, can do lots in terms of breaking be to put on your jogging shoes
family and social life. the monotony. You can make and go for a walk or jog together
For instance, taking common days these even more frequent as or gym it out at the local gym.
off from work or meeting up for opposed to restricting them to Why only leisure? Even sharing
lunch or travelling to and from weekends and holidays. Actually, household responsibilities
work together are some of the leisure activities tend to take a enables both partners to spend
ways couples can spend more back seat when both partners time with each other, apart from
time with each other despite are deeply involved in their work/ reducing each other’s burden. The
hectic work schedules. They can career; if ignored further, these good news is, men today, aren’t
leave early from work, meet up, could become even fewer and as averse to sharing household
watch a movie or go shopping far between. There are a whole chores as they were some
together with a dinner date lot of leisure options available years ago. No doubt there are
thrown in. Just about anything— nowadays that come in handy. exceptions. But largely speaking,
even an after dinner walk or a Weekends might be the perfect today, it is quite common to see
cuppa together—can add zing to opportunity for couples to catch a man pottering about the kitchen
the relationship. up on some together time; while his wife is busy working on
whether it is a nature trek, a boat a presentation she needs to make
ride, a long drive, a romantic to a client the next day. Besides,
February 2009 elite life 05
household responsibilities are not
so much of a burden thanks to the
umpteen household appliances
most people have easy access
to. In such a scenario, hiring help
around the house may also be an
option worth considering.
Again, a young couple is not
going to remain a cosy twosome
forever. Sooner or later comes the
responsibility of looking after a
child and that adds a completely
new dimension to things. While
it’s gratifying to know that you
have successfully graduated to
parent status, parenthood comes
with its own set of responsibilities
which both partners/parents must
fulfill, and herein lies all their skill,
understanding and maturity.
Today, the joint family system has
been largely replaced by nuclear
families. However, a nuclear
family is not the answer to all

It’s for every couple to decide what


should be the trade-off between their
work and married life.

of the young parents’ problems. the importance of honesty and child for a few hours. An ideal
While couples might have the integrity, independence and self situation would be one wherein
independence and flexibility to live esteem, and so on. one partner has the flexibility of
life on their own terms, they have This kind of dexterous balancing working from home or have their
to face the possibility of having between work, children and own business.
to take care of their home and the self is in itself an extremely If the child is attending a nursery
child all by themselves without demanding, exacting and or school, the least that parents
any support from parents/elders. exhausting task. Child care is can do is spend time with him/
Add to that the fact that they are one of the biggest problems her after work. Encourage your
working parents. No self help facing young parents today. With child to develop a hobby (enrol
book is going to teach you how both parents working, there is a him/her in a martial arts/singing/
to be able to do all of this. You shortage of day care centres and dancing/painting class), teach
need to experience it firsthand. other such facilities for looking him/her how to ride a cycle or
First and foremost, children need after children while the parents play cricket or badminton, etc
love, care and attention in addition are at work. In the absence of Indeed, young couples today
to basic needs. Education is other alternatives, either parent face a daunting task but with
supremely important for them to can opt for flexi hours if it is a little bit of planning and
be able to stand on their own two possible to do so. Else friends prioritization, it’s possible to rise
feet. Values need to be inculcated or relatives (who are willing) to the occasion.
in them; they must understand can pitch in to take care of the
Images: Imagebazaar, Dreamstime.com

06 elite life February 2009


Health
Capsule

Updates from the world of health, fitness and


nutrition.
Wellness
Monitor
Calcium, naturally!
Sprouts, anyone? The innumerable benefits of
Did you know that amongst raw D for Diabetes
calcium are well known; what is
foods, sprouts contain the largest In addition to shedding excess flab
less known is that calcium is best
quantity of nutrients, including and eating right,
consumed in natural form. Here’s
food enzymes that are intrinsic diabetics have
looking at some common foods
to every bio-chemical reaction renewed hope of
that are a rich natural source of
taking place in your body. When preventing/curing
calcium:
you sprout a seed, you activate diabetes—in the
The best things in life usually
enzymes, which in turn convert form of vitamin
come free. For instance,
starch into simple sugar; in a D—according to a
sunlight, which is abundantly
sense, sprouts are a form of pre- new study.
available all around us, is rich
digested food and are naturally The study shows that a proper
in vitamin D which in turn helps
bursting with nutrients. dose of vitamin D is most likely to
absorption of calcium

Sprouts are very rich in vitamins


while being low in calories

Sprouts are an extremely rich help diabetics fight the disease or Fresh tomatoes contain vitamin
source of vitamins (A, B, C and better still—keep it at bay. C which helps build collagen
E), minerals (Iron, Calcium, Conducted under the supervision which is good for your teeth
Potassium, Magnesium, Zinc of Professor Sue Penckofer and bones. Other vegetables
and Selenium) and antioxidants. from Marcella Niehoff School of rich in calcium include broccoli
Sprouts (lentils, soya beans, Nursing, Loyola University, the and green peas
peanuts—legumes) are also rich study reveals that vitamin D has Popeye knew it all along:
in proteins. Besides, they are a very important role to play in spinach, coriander, fenugreek
filling while being low in calories. insulin sensitivity and secretion. As and other green leafy vege-
And they are rarely known to part of the study, three thousand tables contain calcium in
cause allergies. people diagnosed with type 1 abundance
You can sprout a variety of diabetes were evaluated. The Nuts are a rich source of
seeds, legumes, nuts and grains risk was found greatly reduced calcium, e.g.
including fenugreek seeds, in the case of patients who almonds (known
chickpeas, mung, kidney beans, supplemented their diet with to have the highest
wheat, barley, rye, etc. Soak these vitamin D. Even patients diagnosed calcium content),
in water for around 8 hours, rinse with type 2 diabetes were studied, pine nuts, etc
the sprouts thoroughly, and drain and it was found that taking Prunes, oranges,
well before storing in a cool place. vitamin D supplements could help soya, milk and milk
in the prevention of the disease. products are excellent
sources of calcium
08 elite life February 2009
Food for
thought

While we may not be aware of it, ‘Organic’ is


the way Mother Nature intended for us to go.
Organic foods have always been around. But
it’s now that they are gaining popularity as a
lifestyle choice towards a healthier life.

Baisali Chatterjee Dutt

Back to basics
T he word ‘organic’ has been
around for quite a while now.
Yes, we all know it equals health
but what does it really mean?
And what do organic foods really
do for us?
Eating the organically harvested
bounty of nature isn’t just about
a lifestyle statement – it’s about
a lifestyle choice; a recognition
of the fact that there are foods
out there that are better for us
and kinder to our bodies. Foods
that we can be positively sure,
won’t slowly poison our blood
or corrode our systems. Foods
that have been grown the way
nature always intended for them
to grow.
10 elite life February 2009
Bringing us back to the question:
What is organic food? It is food
grown using natural fertilizers
such as manure and compost,
rather than chemical-based
fertilizers. Herein lies the whole
difference… the choice of
fertilizer used. Foods grown
using chemical-based fertilizers
tend to have traces of chemicals.
That’s not all. Crops are also nature, but rather along with it. In and other poisons.
sprayed with harsh pesticides organic farming, crops are grown
and fumigants to prevent/control at their natural pace and using Speaking of cows, even livestock
damage by insects, bugs and natural resources, with just a can be reared organically, for
other pests. This becomes a bit of human help in the form of the meat. Again, it’s all about
lethal combination not only for removing weeds, insects, frost, letting nature take its own course
those who consume the produce rot and other such impediments. and avoiding any kind of
but also for the crop itself. externalities to accelerate the
One might argue that a majority Organic foods are rich in growth process; be it steroids,
of people across the globe are nutrients and anti-oxidants; growth hormones, etc. That’s
eating non-organic foods and this is their biggest health not all - organically reared

Organic foods are rich in nutrients


and anti-oxidants; this is their
biggest health benefit.

still not falling ill, which is true. benefit. Some people


Eating non-organic foods may not argue that there is a
necessarily spell trouble in the difference in taste as
near future but it does rob you of well; that organic fruits
essential nutrients that are good and vegetables taste
for you. These nutrients, that sweeter besides being
are part and parcel of the natural brighter in colour.
make up of most foods get
slowly and steadily depleted with A common myth
the use of external agents such associated with organic
as fertilizers and pesticides. foods is that they
comprise only fruits and
As opposed to foods thus robbed vegetables. Contrary
of their natural ingredients, to popular perception,
organic foods are grown in milk can be organic
harmony with nature; the too – when it comes
philosophy of organic farming from cows that graze
does not let crop rearing and on pastures that aren’t
harvesting go against the grain of laced with chemicals
February 2009 elite life 11
Yet, cost and availability always adhered to while producing and
remained limiting factors that harvesting organic foods. There
restricted a wider uptake of the are organisations that set these
organic way of life. However, what standards. For example, in the
is a couple of extra bucks when USA, there is the National Organic
your health is at stake? Viewed in Program while in the UK, there is
that manner, spending a little extra the Department for Environment,
shouldn’t be a problem. Quality Food and Rural Affairs. In India,
does come at a premium. But if you are buying something that
overall, it’s a matter of individual claims to be organic, be sure to
choice (and budget) whether or look out for genuine certification
not to favour consumption of that says so. Only certification
organic foods. bodies accredited by the National
Again, skeptics might question Program for Organic Production
the credibility of so-called (NPOP) are authorized to certify
organic foods. What qualifies whether foods are organic or
as organic and how can you be not. The NPOP, set up by the
sure it is so? Typically, organic Department of Commerce, is
foods are certified as being so. In responsible for setting guidelines
countries where organic farming for organic farming, harvesting,
is common, there are standards import and export, and all
and guidelines that need to be related matters.

Incidentally, organic food harvesting


started off as a small, family-run
enterprise in certain countries, with
wares being sold in local markets.
livestock must be fed a
healthy nutritious diet if they So, it may not be such a bad idea
are being bred for A-grade to switch over to organic foods.
milk or meat. After all, Mother Nature intended
for us to live that way!
Incidentally, organic food References:
harvesting started off as a small, www.organicfoodinfo.net
family-run enterprise in certain http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/
countries, with wares being sold Organic_food
in local markets. But, as is with http://www.apeda.com/organic/
every other product, once the
word about organic food started
to spread, production required
to be overhauled. The result:
organic farming, as an industry,
grew steadily over the years and
its scope expanded to cover other
regions around the world.
Images: Dreamstime.com

12 elite life February 2009


WALK that weight!
Battling New research reveals that the
Diabetes more you walk, the less likely you
With diabetes are to gain weight as you grow
taking its toll older. A half-an-hour walk daily is
on more and sufficient to keep you from gaining Meaty treat
more people those extra pounds as you grow Mushrooms are the perfect
across the older. replacement for meat even
globe, it might Penny Gordon Larsen from the as they shave off significant
well be worth School of Public Health, University calories from your favorite
the trouble to of North Carolina, along with foods, says a recent study.
follow a home-grown checklist of fellow researchers, studied around The study used chopped
do’s and don’ts as follows: 5,000 men and women aged 18 to mushrooms in place of meat in
Avoid sugar and sugary 30 years for a period spanning 15 dishes including lasagnia and
foods including cakes, years, and found that half an hour even beef chilli. Mushrooms
puddings, chocolates, biscuits, of daily walking reduced the annual tasted just as good as the meat
sweets, aerated waters, etc weight gain by 1 pound—amongst and left the subjects feeling
Avoid fatty foods, especially women who qualified as the satisfied for as long, they
saturated fats such as heaviest at the start of the study. vouched. Besides, mushroom-
ghee and butter The study is documented in eaters were found to consume
Opt for cottage cheese the American Journal of Clinical nearly 420 calories less than the
(paneer) over cheddar cheese Nutrition, and is the first of its meat eaters.

Mushrooms taste just as good as


meat while shaving off excess calories

Opt for lean meat and poultry kind to study the long-term A toast to
over red meat effects of walking on weight health
Increase your fibre intake gain/weight control. It’s common
by incorporating more of fruits, Typically, growing older is knowledge that
vegetables and whole meal associated with an increase in drinking wine—in
breads in your diet average body weight and BMI or moderation—is good
Include soya nuggets, barley, body mass index – a measure of for health. How?
gelatin and tofu in your diet weight in relation to height. The Research reveals that wine, when
Significantly, eat regularly and findings of the study suggest consumed in moderate quantities,
don’t miss meals as this that men and women who walk boosts omega-3 levels in blood.
causes blood sugar levels to more are less Omega-3 fatty acids are known to
fluctuate likely to gain be beneficial, especially for the
age-related heart. Not only are they good for
weight. your heart but they also help protect
your kidneys and improve your
memory. Wine contains antioxidants
called Polyphenols that are likely
responsible for boosting omega-3
levels in blood.
Images: Dreamstime.com

February 2009 elite life 09


Invigorate

Dancing is a fun activity that can help


young couples spend some alone time
together and stay fit at the same time.

Meghana B.

Put on your
dancing shoes!
Y Foxtrot your way to
oung working couples lending a new twist to the old
are more the norm rather adage: it takes two to tango. fitness
than exception these days. Think Ballroom dance, and you
Add to that increasingly hectic, Says Venu Mehta, a Mumbai- see a couple dancing to some
24x7 lifestyles and you have based dance and fitness instructor, romantic song, right? Well, that’s
several new-age couples juggling “Dancing certainly helps to kill the magic about this form of
work, family and social life. Not the boredom in a regular exercise dance. It’s actually romance plus!
surprisingly, they are always routine by adding new zest to your Couples who have taken these
looking for fun ways to add some regime. And, couples always enjoy classes, say, that in ballroom
zing to their lives. an advantage. It makes learning dance, they feel muscles they
dance forms more fun and easy, as didn’t know ever existed. In
Dancing is one such activity. Not you are already comfortable with ballroom dancing,
only are young couples looking at your partner.” So, if you’re not a one often has
dance as a way to spend some part of this growing tribe, it’s time to move
alone time together but also as to put on your dancing shoes: backwards.
a way to burn extra calories. So This helps
much so, they are in working
the back of

14 elite life February 2009


your thighs, ankles and buttocks.
And experts say it is different
from other types of exercise.
For instance, if you are dancing
the Foxtrot, you are taking long,
sweeping steps backwards; this
is different from walking on a
treadmill. This means you stretch
the muscles much more than
you would in any other form of
exercise.

Once you’ve got your moves


right, stalwarts say your body
would move along automatically
to your partner’s touch and to the
right flow of music. The dance
floor offers an exciting alternative
to the gym and it’s easier to
follow the routine, as a workout is
now fun, besides being healthy.
“On the dance floor, I can be with
my husband and this adds more
Baba teaching students at centre for Capoeira India
thrill to the workout programme,

Ballroom dancing can help you burn


up anything between 250 to 400
calories in an hour.
as we are literally in step with old Brazilian martial art form classes. Of course, for some
each other,” says Sarita Nair, who that infuses dance and offers couples it does take some
took up ballroom dancing with her an intense, physical and mental, amount of persuasion. But those
husband. cardio-vascular work-out that who have taken the class, would
strengthens and tones core assure you that there is no other
If ballroom dancing fascinates muscles, improves flexibility, dance form that is as much fun
you, here’s something that will agility, balance and burns off besides helping burn excess
make it even more irresistible. excess weight. calories.
Ballroom dancing can help you To the pace set by a fast tempo of
burn up anything between 250 drumbeats and music, deceptive Sway to the beat
to 400 calories in an hour. This is kicks, sweeps, trip-em-ups, These dance moves are best
equivalent to half an hour of brisk head butts, and elbow and knee done, when you have a partner.
walking on a treadmill. movements are played out in fluid What we are talking about is Latin
motion. Thus, the basic idea of the American dances such as the
Be a Capoeira champ class is: the faster the rhythm, the Cha-Cha, Salsa, Samba, Mambo
It’s kicking its way into every more calories you burn! and Zumba. These dance forms
exercise programme and dance will certainly make you want to
class in the world. Its red-hot, Initially, Capoeria class saw give your treadmill a break, and
exciting and exhausting, yet singles doing the routine, but as add zing to your life. The Latin
takes working out to a new the dance form gained popularity, American style of dancing, which
level. Capoeira is the 500-year- it found couples enrolling for
February 2009 elite life 15
has evolved from a variety of Cha cha cha – This dance form Invoke your innate
routines, has now been widely follows a slow, slow, quick-quick- energy
accepted in the US, Europe and quick rhythm. A Cha cha move is Think cosmic and you have
UK. The reason: Latin dance made up of two basic movements
the Kundalini Dance, a kind of
offers fast-paced and enjoyable – forward basic and backward
ecstatic dance developed and
movements and a means to a basic. The Cha cha is best
taught worldwide by Leyolah
healthier, happier life. Basically, performed to the tune of Latin
these dances combine fast and American beats. Antara Dekanic for over a decade
slow rhythms, resistance training now. The dance is derived from
and aerobic exercise while Mambo – As a dance form, the Kundalini or the innate energy
using Latin beats. If an exercise Mambo offers great scope for which resides in every human
programme guarantees some lower body (hip) movement. It being, which, if invoked, leads
togetherness and helps you burn follows a quick-quick-slow rhythm to rejuvenation, clearing of old
500 to 800 calories, then it’s but your feet move only on the stagnant emotional energy,
worth trying out, isn’t it? Here second and fourth beats. The self–realization and awakening of
are some popular Latin American dance, heavily influenced by jazz, the higher consciousness.
dance forms that promise to make is set to saxophone tunes and Through rhythmic breathing
for a perfect couple dance routine: other brass melodies.
and movement, Antara inspires
Salsa – This popular dance form
dancers to invoke their Kundalini
follows a quick-quick-slow rhythm, Samba – This Brazilian form of
to purify the body and mind and
to the sound of a steady beat. dance, offers fun and energetic
The combination ensures that movements. The Samba follows move into the sphere of higher
partner movement is involved in the quick-quick-slow rhythm; consciousness.

Kundalini is a dance form which derives its


origins from Kundalini or the innate energy
that resides in every human being.

every step right from spot turns importantly, three steps are
to cross body leads. Now, that performed in two beats. Whether you’re dancing the
sounds like something you’d want Mind you, Samba is certainly not foxtrot, capoeira, salsa, cha cha,
to try out, doesn’t it? meant for the weak hearted. It mambo, samba, zumba or the
makes you groove and shake the kundalini, dancing can be a lot
whole body. of fun. Dancing is also a way to
release pent up energy. It is a way
Zumba - The word Zumba comes to relax. It exercises muscles in
from a Columbian word, which different parts of the body and
means ‘to move fast and have sharpens rhythm, balance and
fun’. It combines various Latin coordination. And it also keeps
American dances like the Cha- the romance alive in a relationship.
Cha, Merengue, Samba and There’s more. Memorizing the
Rumba and even the Indian folk steps, kicking and twirling — all
dance Bhangra. Certainly, it’s flexes the mind. So put on
tough not to find fun in doing the your dancing shoes and get
Zumba. ready to tango!

Kundalini Dance
Images: Monitor Baba, Dreamstime.com

16 elite life February 2009


Sports
Connect

Running seems to have caught the nation’s


imagination. If you aspire to be part of this
brigade, here are a few tips that might help
you run the long mile.

Ajeya Row

Hitting the Road

I ndia running! Why else would


everybody—from Anil Ambani to
celebrities to wannabes to senior citizens to
college students be running; whether it is
for a pet cause or to stay fit or just for fun.
Just recently, the whole of
Mumbai converged at the
Standard Chartered Mumbai
Marathon, now in its sixth
consecutive year; some ran as
professional runners, others for
their sixty seconds of fame, and
still others for a cause or simply
to showcase the undying spirit
of this city—especially after it
was badly brutalized and bruised
by terrorist attacks on 26th Nov,
2008.
The marathon was flagged
off from Azad Maidan; non-
professional runners starting off at
6.40am and professional runners
an hour later at 7.40am. The
main event was broken up into a
series of smaller events, including
the wheelchair run (2.5kms) for

After a gruelling year with more than its


fair share of pitfalls, the marathon was the
perfect connect for the people of Mumbai

the disabled, senior citizen run the runners ran by; some even buddy, Sagar Joshi, said, “It’s
(4.3kms) for senior citizens, dream offering the runners a fruit or a important to wear a good pair of
run (6kms) for celebrities, half glass of water or an energy drink shoes–with ample cushion. Also,
marathon (21.097kms) mainly so as to help them keep up their avoid wearing cotton as sweat
for non-professional runners and energies. After a gruelling year tends to make cotton heavy and
the marathon (42.195kms). A with more than its fair share of that can tire you out faster.” So if
cavalcade of two choppers, ten to pitfalls, the marathon was the you’re a regular who likes his/her
twelve bikes and five ambulances perfect connect for the people morning run and if you aspire to
followed the marathon from of Mumbai, who came together, run in the next marathon, here are
beginning till the end; as regardless of their social, political some valuable tips that you may
protection against probable and economic standing, and ran, want to use:
eventualities. united in action and purpose, for
a common cause. Mumbaikar and Build Strength
Typically, a test of skill, strength graphics designer Dylan Lewis, A time-tested formula for building
and stamina for the professional who ran the half marathon said, “It strength is weight training. Weight
runners, the marathon also saw a was fun but a lot of work as well. training helps tone your body,
huge turnout of non-professional I have been regularly hitting the preparing it for larger pursuits.
runners who were there mainly road for almost two weeks before Remember to work out both your
to support some cause by the marathon. I am confident I will upper and lower body. On days
running. Mumbai turned out in full be able to run the whole marathon that you don’t go out running,
strength, applauding, cheering as next year.” Fellow runner and
18 elite life February 2009
still remember to lift weights as Marathon. Similarly, Reebok India
otherwise, you may find your was the Official Training and
muscles tightening up, making Sportswear Partner for the Hutch
it difficult for you to run as you Delhi Half Marathon.
would normally.
Additionally, remember
Build Endurance to:
Run consistently to build
endurance. Prepare yourself • Drink sufficient water before,
(through a combination of walking after and during the long dista-
and running continuously) to nce run as water helps avoid
be able to run continuously for sources of reserve energy, and dehydration.
at least 30 minutes. Once you are essential for high endurance • Warm up before the run and
reach the 30-minutes mark, start workouts such as long distance cool down after it.
running an average of three times runs. The trick is to opt for • Give your body the rest it
a week and gradually increase fibrous foods rich in complex deserves, particularly after a long
the distance you run every week. carbohydrates such as oats, run.
Keep increasing the distance brown rice and whole wheat Running is the ultimate exercise,
you run and peak off around two breads as opposed to white it’s also a lot of fun, and when
weeks before the marathon. After breads and crackers which are you run for a cause, the effect is
that, taper off by running shorter rich in refined carbohydrates. Milk ecstatic! So set foot and get with
distances, giving your body an (low fat), curds, cheese, tofu, soy the programme!
opportunity to recover from the products, beans, chicken, fish and
rigorous training schedule. eggs are rich in protein. A regular

You need to build strength and stamina


to be able to run a marathon

intake of calcium and iron is also


Gain Speed essential.
Do interval running once every
week. Interval running means Enrol in a training camp
alternating bursts of fast running Register in any one of the training
and slow jogging or brisk walking. workshops that are frequently
Start with 4-5 30-second fast runs conducted across the length and
and a 30-second walk or a one- breadth of the country. Typically,
minute jog in between, building prior to a marathon, workshops
on from there. Interval running are held to train aspirants in the
improves the delivery of oxygen nuances of long distance running.
to your muscles, enabling you to These go a long way in teaching
run faster and further. enthusiasts the do’s and don’ts
of long distance running and
Eat right help them better prepare for the
A low carbohydrate diet is good upcoming event. For instance,
for losing weight, but when it Talwalkars, a leading name in
comes to long distance running, it the area of health and fitness, is
isn’t useful. Carbohydrates stored the Official Training Partner for
in your liver and muscles act as the Standard Chartered Mumbai
Images: Dreamstime.com

February 2009 elite life 19


Retreat

Does the routine get to you at times? Here’s


looking at some great weekend hideaways where
you and your spouse can spend time together.

Rishad Saam Mehta

Far from the


madding crowd!
Y
ou are a committed and loyal relationship, forget the office and
spouse, a good parent and spend some quality time together.
a conscientious worker. And Here are some lovely getaways you
though you juggle work, marriage can sneak off to during weekends.
and bringing up a child with the And with the vast airline network
ease and grace of a circus juggler, that covers the entire country, you
it can get a little dull at times. You really needn’t be restricted by
need to reignite that spark in your your location.
Sojha, Himachal Pradesh 11
Place: Pench Wildlife
Sanctuary, Maharashtra /
Madhya Pradesh
Getting there: Two hour drive
from Nagpur airport
Romantic Hideaway:
Baghvan Resort
Baghvan is an experience in self
indulgence. While the resort is
modeled on a jungle safari camp,
in terms of luxury, it is sheer
bliss. Inspired by game reserve
resorts in Africa, at Baghvan,
you’ll get to experience open
air showers and high machans
that can be used for a romantic
siesta-out at tree top level.
Sharing a boundary with the
Pench National Park means that
you’ll be serenaded by nightjars
and will stop mid-sentence when
Baghvan Resort
you hear the sharp alarm call of

The Baghvan Resort is like a jungle


safari camp on the outside but on the
inside, it’s sheer luxury

a Chital stag. Chances are you’ll Coming to the safaris in Pench, very private; they are protected
be spoilt rotten by the chef’s they yield fantastic experiences by high walls and electric
culinary skills and the staff’s like spotting animals in the wild, fencing. Foodies can select
unobtrusive service. Just to give bird watching and tracking tigers from a pick of delicious South
you an idea, you’ll be welcomed while riding on elephant back. Indian fare and the service
with refreshing fresh lime water, For more information go to: couldn’t have been warmer or
treated to a light lunch on the www.tajsafaris.com/our_lodges/ more courteous. The best part
shaded deck that surrounds the baghvan/default.php is the Ayurvedic centre which
swimming pool and overlooks offers 12 different kinds of
the nullah (dry river bed), which Place: Coorg traditional oil massages that are
is a favoured route of the Pench Getting there: Two hour drive known to relieve stress, control
tigers. Alternately, you can have from Bangalore weight and even cure different
lunch delivered to your suite if ailments. Added perks come
Romantic Hideaway: Orange
you prefer a leisurely meal in the in the form of the artificial lake
County Resort
privacy of your own bungalow. within the resort where you can
Baghvan has an interactive Orange County is this vast go fishing!
kitchen where guests are estate, bang in the middle of a
For more information:
encouraged to mingle with the forest; there are coffee and spice
www.orangecounty.in
chefs and even learn to prepare plantations all over. Cottages
traditional dishes. are spacious, comfortable and

22 elite life February 2009


Orange County Resort

The cottages are spacious and afford an


uninterrupted view of the sea and the
palm-fringed Covelong beach

Place: Covelong Beach, refresh and rejuvenate yourself at Bar, with its tropical ambience; and
Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu the Spa Vyana or go for a beach the Poolside Sunken Bar, the local
Getting there: One hour drive buggy ride or catamaran ride. watering hole of choice which also
from Chennai There’s a choice of restaurants offers breathtaking views of the
and bars as well: Bay View Point, beach.
Romantic Hideaway:
an open-air restaurant that serves Fringe benefits include tours to
Taj Fisherman’s Cove sea food; Upper Deck that offers Mahabalipuram, which is about
Originally a magnificent Dutch fort, al fresco dining and candlelight 10km away and Pondicherry,
Taj Fisherman’s Cove offers an array dinners; Seagull, a coffee shop cum which takes around 2 hours to
of garden and sea-view cottages multi-cuisine restaurant; the Anchor reach (by road).
and luxury villas to choose from.
The cottages are spacious and
afford an uninterrupted view of the
sea and the palm-fringed Covelong
beach; they come with their very
own private sit-outs and gardens
not to mention a private Jacuzzi.
There’s a lot you can do at Taj
Fisherman’s Cove: enjoy a swim
in the fresh water swimming pool,
work out at the fitness centre, Taj Fisherman’s cove

February 2009 elite life 23


Place: Sojha, Himachal Pradesh
Getting there: 60 minute flight
from Delhi to Kulu’s Bhuntar airport
and a 90 minute drive.
Romantic Hideaway: Banjara
Camps and Sojha Retreat
For the first hour or so after you
arrive here, you’ll be pinching
yourself to check if you’re actually
awake. Because it’s dream like.
The previous evening, you were
amidst corporate urbanity and now
you are sitting and staring at the
magnificent Himalayas.
The beauty of this place is that
though it is secluded enough to
spark off a weekend romance, it
remains well connected to help you
out with your practical needs. Your
days could include soft treks to the
Jalori Pass and the Serolsar Lake Sojha Retreat
and evenings could be spent sitting

The beauty of this place is that it


is secluded enough to spark off a
weekend romance

around a comforting bonfire along


with a sumptuous barbeque to
tantalize your taste buds. The lodge
is very comfortable and affords
astounding views of the mountain
peaks.
While Sojha is the perfect
weekend getaway, it might be best
experienced over an extended
weekend or one that has public
holidays attached on either/both
sides.
For more information:
www.banjaracamps.com

Orange County Resort


24 elite life February 2009
Place: Khimsar, Rajasthan
Getting there: Flight to Jodhpur
and a 2 hour drive spanning a 91
km stretch
Romantic Hideaway: Khimsar
Fort and Village
Khimsar looks like an ordinary
Rajasthani village, but it’s got an
extraordinary fort with ancient
ramparts and high-ceiling dining
halls. The fort brings on the sense
of a royal romance as you are
served on by turbaned waiters
in sharply ironed liveries with
magnificent whiskers.
The bar by the pool is the ideal
hangout for chilled-out evenings
and the bartender, though a local,
appears impeccably trained in the
art of creating superb cocktails.
Khimsar Palace Movie buffs will love the mini-
cinema hall set in a soundproof,

The fort brings on the sense of a royal


romance as you are served on by
turbaned waiters in sharply ironed liveries

acoustically-designed room and


equipped with a Bose home theatre
system and a projector. They have a
mind-boggling collection of movies
over there, and the best part is that
guests can watch the flicks at no
extra cost.
The hotel also has a dunes
village 6km from the fort, which
is operational from October to
mid April. It’s a cosy place to stay
for that rustic desert ambience,
to take in the gorgeous sunsets,
and simply relax by the artificial
waterhole that houses ducks. And
no, they are NOT on the menu.
For more information:
khimsar.com/khimsarFort.htm

Taj Fisherman’s cove


February 2009 elite life 25
Haven

Home is where the heart lies. It’s a personal


statement. You want it to reflect your style
while taking care of your pocket. Here’s how
you can do it...

Nivedita Churiwal

Budget a la mode

C reating the right abode can be a


daunting task and homing in on a
house that suits your style as well as your
pocket can turn out to be an overwhelming
experience. Your home is a statement
of who you are, your likes and dislikes; it
defines you, at the same time you would
26 elite life February 2009 want it to appeal to your guests. It’s no
rocket science really! We all Use larger patterns for larger unfinished dry walls, raw wood,
want a beautiful home without spaces unless you want to cement and particle boards. An
wiping our bank accounts dry give a small space an air of added advantage of textured wall
but don’t know how to go about it. largeness. A textured wall is coverings is their superior heat-
The cheapest way of refurbi- typically used to highlight any insulating and sound-absorbing
shing a home is to apply a fresh one wall of your room. Not only properties. Additionally, they are
coat of paint. A good way to does it change the entire mood environmentally friendly as they
start would be to highlight one of the room but often, becomes contain no toxins, fiber glass or
wall of the room with a striking the most eye-catching feature of asbestos. Significantly, textured
color. Bright orange, sunny the room. wall coverings are easy to
yellow, purple or cherry red can maintain as they can be cleaned
make your room look very perky. Textured paints, decorative wall using soapy cold water solution
Metallic shades and textures on finishes are readily available in and a dry cloth.
a wall make a bold statement. the market and are substantially
While one wall is accentuated, cheaper as compared to Now, as cliched as it might
it is important to maintain a textured wallpapers. Unlike sound, old is gold. An old
balance by painting the other traditional wall coatings, chair or an ottoman can be
walls in ivory, beige or other textured wall coatings can be refurbished, re-colored and put
lighter shades. For the more applied on a variety of wall together in an all-new way. Or
mellow; peach, pastel blues, surfaces including paneling, get that old chair and upholster
yellow and greens on all walls is wallpaper, concrete blocks, it with new fabric, remove the
the perfect option. cracking plaster, finished or extra carving, polish it in a new

Textured paints are readily available in


the market and are substantially cheaper
as compared to textured wallpapers.

If a plain Jane look is


not your style, you can
go in for textured walls
which are quite the in
thing now. There’s a riot
of colors, patterns and
textures to choose from
and these go a long way
in giving your home that
unique, sophisticated
Courtesy: Khotachiwadi

look and feel. If you


want a rustic look, opt
for rough textures as
against smooth, glossy
textures. For rooms
with low ceilings, go
with vertical stripes as
they create an illusion of
height.
February 2009 elite life 27
dark oak polish, black or white. casual, funky and comfortable of them come adorned with jari,
You could also try and use a seating, bean bags are available lace or other such handiwork.
combination of fabrics, maybe in different colors and shapes; Using chocolate brown or
two or three, in complementary they are the perfect answer and black with bright colors, or
shades or patterns. As cheap as affordable too. Just snuggle up complementary/supplementary
it might sound, this reinvented with a book, lounge with friends colors from the color palette
piece could well turn out to or channel surf in the comfort of are some of the ways to ensure
be the most arresting piece your easily movable bean bag. aesthetic coordinates for your
of furniture in your home. You Many people don’t realize that bed/cushion settings. Coming
could also use knock down bedding forms the focal point to curtains, these have always
furniture available from various of a room. Trendy bedspreads formed an intrinsic part of
South East Asian countries such with coordinated cushions and home décor. Today, curtain
as Malaysia and China. Knock pillow covers can transform arrangements have morphed into
down furniture is typically a room to an image right out trendy, colorful combinations
available in a wide range of of a magazine. Cushions in that use a range of fabrics in a
modern styles and finishes. Not different shapes and sizes, variety of warp and weft. Even
only is such furniture pleasing dressed in different covers, add the style of curtains and curtain
to the eye but it also offers the to the glamour quotient of the stands have changed. You can
flexibility of putting together bed setting. Nowadays, there get beautiful yet affordable
in a number of permutations are cushion covers available fabrics to mix and match and
and combinations that most of in various fabrics including use as curtains in stores.
all, optimally utilize space. For cotton and handlooms; some

Knock down furniture is an available


option; it comes from various South
East Asian countries

Once your home is set with all


the basics, upholstery/tapestry
other furbishing, furniture,
paint, and so on, you can then
go about personalizing with
accessories and other elements.
A range of accessories are
available—local handicrafts
in flea markets and state
emporiums, decorative articles
in stores such as Westside,
Lifestyle and Nirmitee. You
can also opt for wooden
accessories that add an
element of warmth—magazine
racks, decorative stands, and
so on. For the techno look
and feel, go with steel and
glass accessories, including
28 elite life February 2009
Elements representative of different
styles can be used but you need to
maintain parity in the look

lamps, candle stands, trays and photographs, create a dramatic elements that look good yet don’t
jars. For the perky look, add yet personalized space. drill a hole in your pocket will
colorful ceramic accessories. One could also use graffiti, ensure that your home is indeed
Also available are decorative mirror frames, wall hangings, ‘budget a la mode’.
items in wicker, wrought iron paintings, wind chimes, the list
and clay. An in-door plant in an is endless …
earthen clay pot (blue pottery is Your home can be decorated
another option) gives a finishing using one or all of these ways
touch to an already beautifully but the most important thing
decorated house. Do it yourself is to maintain parity in the
techniques can be terrific too. look. Using elements that are
For instance, making a collage representative of different
of photographs on a wall or styles can create an altogether
using several different frames disconnected look. It is impo-
with photos both as memory rtant to know your theme before
and as wall art is a great idea. you start; Rustic, Modern,
Using black and white photos or Techno, Victorian or any other.
treating them to give a vintage The right planning with a
look, graphic methods used on defined color scheme and
February 2009 elite life 29
Artefact

India is known for her art and craft, since


ancient times. Here, we take a look at myriad
art forms that have flourished in different
parts of the country.

Brinda Gill

Mithila Painting

An Indian Aesthetic
Since ancient times, India has bejewelled figurine, at Pompeii,
been famed for her art and craft, thus dating it back to pre 79 A.
as evidenced in the discovery of D.! Over the centuries, art and
a small, beautifully carved ivory architecture, have been created
mirror handle, in the shape of a with exquisite detailing and form,
30 elite life February 2009
in different parts of the country, tiger; the time of day or a season
reflective of the skill and creativity by elements such as dark clouds
of Indian artists and craftsmen. or distinct trees in blossom; the
From finely hand-knotted carpets status of a person through his
to detailed miniature paintings, stance and attire.
from ornamental Tanjore paintings Viewing these delightful creations
to the rustic Warli paintings, through a magnifying glass
from stunning South Indian multiplies their visual impact
bronzes to endearing bell metal manifold as it reveals the hundreds
figures, from traditional pottery of fine strokes that go into creating
to studio pottery; each work each of these small gems of art.
of art, holds in its fabric, our And grouping a set of miniature
centuries-old heritage. And placed paintings on a wall brings home
in homes, these objects–drawn the beauty of this legendary

Miniature Painting
from a classical, folk, tribal or heritage.
contemporary idiom- always add
interest, colour and character to
spaces even as they decorate
Ebullient expressions
them. Amongst the tribal art expressions
one slowly takes in the details. in India, are the charming Warli
Gods are painted with a halo; wall paintings traditionally created
Small is beautiful! a hint of romance is suggested by the Warli tribals who have long
Drawing from the courtly traditions by a peacock, a symbol of love; been living in mountainous and
of erstwhile kingdoms in different the progress of a hunt conveyed forested areas north of Mumbai.
parts of India, are extraordinary through multiple images of a Isolated in their environment, the

Amongst the tribal art expressions in India,


are the charming Warli wall paintings,
traditionally created by the Warli tribals

miniature paintings. As the name Warlis have retained their artistic


suggests, they are small in size, expression over centuries, and it is
yet are rich in detail, colour, the simple, ebullient charm of their
symbolism and skill; elements works that has instantly appealed
that meld together to present a to art lovers the world over.
microcosm of the world of Gods, The Warlis respect for every
humans and nature. manifestation of nature, their
traditional dependence on forests
In each defined format, just 12 by and fields, their beliefs, rhythms of
6 inches or less, artists create a life and festivities spontaneously
perfectly executed composition offer subjects for their paintings.
that vividly portrays a theme, story Simple lines enclose space and
or event. As tradition goes, they create form in their paintings: the
strive to create a work that would human figure is formed by two
`cleanse the soul, curb anxiety, triangles that intersect at their
augment future good, cause apex; while a deity is painted with
Miniature Painting

delight, kill the evil of bad dreams, two triangles that do not intersect
please the household deity and fill at their apex.
the empty spaces in the house. Though traditionally created with
Miniature paintings come alive as rice paste used on brown mud
walls, the Warlis now create
February 2009 elite life 31
movement, a flowing silhouette,
full height, elongated limbs,
beautiful facial expressions, and
perfect proportions. A Chola-
style bronze, infused with life and
grace, is perfect for placing in a
contemporary living room along
with a small diya or a bowl of
flowers placed before it.

Allure of metal
Indigenous to West Bengal and

Warli Painting
Orissa is Dhokra or bell metal
craft; it is created using an alloy of
copper and tin or copper and zinc.
Inspired by mythology, nature and
creativity, craftsmen create a wide
paintings on paper and cloth sculptors to create beautiful spectrum of charming figures.
surfaced brown, and paint with bronze images that are the Bell metal figures, are made of a
white pigment to simulate the treasures of India’s heritage. clay core and are light in weight;
effect of their wall paintings. They Inspired by the Chola bronzes, with their feature and form, they
create scaled-down versions of master craftsmen even today add an element of local customs
their traditional compositions for create solid bronze images in the and traditions. Animals, especially
traditional `lost wax’ technique, the elephant, are popular forms,

The patronage of the Cholas


encouraged metal sculptors to create
beautiful bronze images

the urban clientele, and these lively


compositions infuse homes with a
rustic charm.

Beautiful bronzes
Though the legacy of Indian
bronzes can be traced back
over four thousand years to the
figurine of the dancing girl found
in Mohenjodaro, historically
Warli Painting

speaking, the craft of the metal


sculptor reached its glory under
the patronage of the Cholas (850
to 1275 A.D). The deeply religious
Chola rulers built hundreds of while deities like Lord Ganesh
adhering to specifications of
magnificent temples that still and Goddess Durga as well as
traditional iconometry and
stand erect in Tamil Nadu, gifted kings, lamps in the form of trees,
detailing. Each statue is made
beautiful metal statues to temples, are also popular. As they are
anew as the wax model melts
and performed elaborate temple made from alloys, the bell metal
away and the mould is broken for
rituals. And their religiosity and figures have a burnished, antique
every cast. The result is unique
patronage encouraged metal appearance which enhances their
images with a distinct feel of
32 elite life February 2009
charm. Dhokra artefacts are now
being crafted for urban homes.

Sacred textiles
Indian textiles - created by
different techniques such as hand-
weaving, resist-dyeing, printing
and embroidery- reflect centuries
of tradition, beliefs, creativity
and hereditary skills. Within the
fabulous spectrum of textiles,
are the revered Pichwais that
originated around Lord Shrinathji
or Lord Krishna, as he is called
at Nathdwara, near Udaipur in

Lithograph
Rajasthan.
Traditionally placed behind the
Shrinathji deity in the Nathdwara sacred textiles is believed to be in some compositions, creating
temple, Pichwais depict scenes propitious. a three-dimensional effect. With
from the life of Lord Krishna. its elaborate composition, details
and colours, a beautifully worked
Deeply religious in nature, Pichwais A touch of gold Tanjore painting can be placed by
are a labour of love for artists and
Tanjore paintings are perhaps itself on a wall. A beautiful wooden
craftsmen, who spare no effort in
the most spectacular of all frame enhances its traditional

Pichwais originated around Lord


Shrinathji or Lord Krishna, as he is
called at Nathdwara near Udaipur
creating them with fine painting, traditional Indian art forms. charm, while diffused general and
weaving, hand-bloc printing, Rooted in mythology, tradition and accent lighting in the room brings
and embroidery. Some Pichwais religion, most Tanjore paintings out the sanctity and muted beauty
are even embellished with gold feature deities. Created on a of the gemstones, glass and the
for a decorative touch. These base of wood, the paintings are gold work.
revered textiles are treasured in embellished with semi-precious
So a home adorned with Indian
urban homes where typically, stones, glass, pearls and gold
art and artefacts creates warmth,
they are hung on a wall befitting leaf. Hung in prayer rooms that
style and comfort. After a long
their sanctity; viewing these are softly lit by the light from oil
day at work, there is nothing as
lamps, the deep and vivid colours
soothing as stepping into your
and decoration of these paintings
home, tastefully decorated with
appears rich yet muted.
beauteous artefacts that radiate
Tanjore paintings generally feature warmth and happiness.
a central figure, beautifully attired
and adorned with jewellery, framed
by an arch with smaller figures
filling up space in the composition,
Jewellery Box
Tanjore Painting

each of these figures with their


symbolism - recreating an entire
episode from Indian mythology.
Relief work brings out the detail

February 2009 elite life 33


Ensure

News you can use from ICICI Prudential Life


Insurance.
Company
Showcase
The true test of a leader, they say, all its forms. The Life Insurance scrutinised thoroughly by an
is when the going gets tough. Company of the Year is awarded independent auditor.
Certainly, ICICI Prudential Life has to a company for its constructive Three companies were short-
become adept at sailing through contribution to efficiency and listed in this process. ICICI
challenges to emerge victorious, effectiveness in the financing of Prudential Life was declared the
winning accolades and awards insurable risk in Asia. winner in the category after the
along the way. This year saw final jury discussion.
us winning many prestigious The elite jury & rigorous
recognitions including the Best judging process The award acknowledged our
Business Partnership at the customer responsiveness,
The 25-member strong
UK Trade & Investment Awards efficiency in assessing risks
internationally acclaimed jury
and being felicitated at the and handling claims, and our
saw representation from industry
Outlook Money & NDTV Profit sound financial management and
associations, regulators as well
Awards. Apart from this, we professional standards.
as peers from across Asia. The

ICICI Prudential Life was awarded the Life


Insurance Company of the Year at the
12th Asia Insurance Industry Awards 2008

have now received unsurpassed jury included Clement Cheung-


international recognition – that of Commissioner of Insurance,
being the best Asian life insurer, Hong Kong, Sara Lamsam –
steaming ahead of competition Chairman, Asean Insurance
from not only India, but across Asia. Council, Michael Huddart - Past
Chairman, The Hong Kong
ICICI Prudential Life was awarded Federation of Insurers,
the Life Insurance Company Yogesh Lohiya – Chairman–
of the Year at the 12th Asia cum-MD, General
Insurance Industry Awards 2008, Insurance Corporation
held in Hong Kong recently. The of India, amongst other
Asia Insurance Industry Awards industry representatives
are hosted by Asia Insurance from across the region.
Review, Asia’s most respected
publication dedicated to the Entries came in from
insurance industry in the region. across Asia with a focus
The Awards, an annual feature, on regional or specialised
aim to capture the spirit of activities. Each company
innovation and professionalism had to showcase their
in the market; reward the best achievements and present their
practices and salute excellence credentials to the judging panel.
within the insurance industry in These submissions were further
34 elite life February 2009
Up Close
Since the day you got married, Term life insurance is a cost It is true that your life is
you have been dreaming, effective way to protect the ones invaluable. Your family members
planning and working towards you care about. The proceed of love you too much to attach
the perfect life. Even as you toil such a policy will help your family any number or economic value
away at work, the thought that pay off your outstanding home to your life. It is also true that
keeps you going is--it’s for the loan, your child’s education, insurance can only compensate
wellbeing of my family. Then and provide for your spouse’s the financial loss to your family
comes your first born, and like retirement apart from the normal and can never compensate the
every other parent, you dream cost of living like paying utility emotional loss suffered by them.
away and think of your child and grocery bills. But, it is equally true that you
graduating from one of the finest need to ensure their happiness
business schools. Even high net worth individuals against any adversity because
need life insurance because adversity can strike at anytime.
You might have even started houses, property, and other
saving for your family’s future investments can’t be sold fast Keeping this in mind, ICICI
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The solution is to channelise such as houses, property, stocks, your life and provide total
your efforts and invest in a life or mutual funds, they possibly security to your family, at a very
insurance policy. will take a loss just to get the money. affordable cost.

ICICI Prudential recognizes your need


to channelise efforts and invest in a
sound life insurance policy

February 2009 elite life 35


Product Update I
We customise your protection • Avail of tax benefits as • In case of a total and
plan keeping in mind the applicable# permanent disability due to
insurance protection you need. • You will need to pay regular an accident, under the waiver
We bring you ICICI Prudential premiums for the term chosen. of premium rider, the
Pure Protect Classic for insurance • In case of death of the life company will pay the
cover up to Rs. 24,99,999 and assured during the term, the remaining premiums till
Pure Protect Elite for insurance sum assured will be paid to maturity.
cover of Rs. 25,00,000 and above. the beneficiary.
• There are no Maturity
Key features of ICICI Pru benefits.
Pure Protect: If you still feel the need to take
• Get insurance protection at it a step further you can take a
extremely affordable rates. look at the additional features we
• Avail of discounts on provide at a nominal extra cost.
premium for high sum
assured. Additional features of
• Enhance your policy with ICICI Pru Pure Protect:
the optional Waiver of • The death and disability
Premium Rider and Accidental benefit rider allows the
Death and Disability Benefit beneficiary to receive the
Rider. additional sum assured.

Secure your family’s future with


ICICI Pru Pure Protect Classic and
Pure Protect Elite.

At a Glance
ICICI Pru Pure Protect Classic ICICI Pru Pure Protect Elite
Min/Max Entry Age 18-65 years 18-65 years

Min/Max Terms 10-30 years 10-30 years

Max. Coverage Age 75 years 75 years

Min. Premium Rs. 2,400 p.a. Rs. 2,400 pa

Min. Sum Assured Subject to minimum premium as applicable Rs. 25,00,000

Max. Sum Assured Rs. 24,99,999 -

Tax Benefit Premium paid towards the policy will be eligible for tax benefit under Sec 80C.

#Tax benefits under the policy are subject to conditions under section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961. Death Benefit is tax free under Section
10 (10D) of the Income Tax Act, 1961.Service tax and education cess will be charged extra, as per applicable rates. The tax laws are subject to
amendments from time to time.
For further details, on risk factors and terms and conditions please read the policy document and detailed benefit illustration before
concluding the sale © 2008. ICICI Pru Pure Protect Classic: Form No T20. ICICI Pru Pure Protect Elite: Form No - T21 UIN 105N084V01. ADBR
UIN105A018V01 WOPR UIN 105A019V01. P/II/211/2008-09

36 elite life February 2009


Product Update II
Health care has become a Health Saver is our attempt to Further, most of us realize that
growing burden for Indian provide you the most once we retire, the need to
families, as medical costs and comprehensive health plan. While provide for your health care
out-of-pocket expenses continue the Hospitalisation Insurance expenses becomes even more
to rise at alarming rates. This Benefit ensures complete pronounced as the income
has led to a demand for a coverage for expenses incurred earning capacity erodes
health plan that covers not just in the event of hospitalisation, considerably. This is when you
hospitalization expenses but the health fund created by can rely on your health fund built
also provides for a means to investing a part of your premium over the years to meet health
meet rising day to day healthcare in market linked funds under the costs and also to pay for your
expenses of any kind - now and Health Savings Benefit assures future medical cover.
in the future. you of an adequate support
system: The benefits coupled with the
ICICI Prudential Life proudly unique advantage of availing
brings you ICICI Pru Health • To meet day to day medical tax benefits under section 80D
Saver – The comprehensive expenses that occur outside even on the part of the premium
whole life health insurance the hospital. invested in the health fund makes
plan for you and your family • To cover the steady outflow it an ideal health plan to take care
which: of funds that occurs at the of all your health needs today
• Provides guaranteed onset of chronic ailments like and tomorrow.
Hospitalisation Insurance diabetes and hypertension.
coverage upto 75 years of age.

The comprehensive whole life health


insurance plan for you and your family

• Invests in a Health fund


to cover any other healthcare
expenses after 3 years, like
medicines, diagnostics, and
dental expenses.
• Flexible premium payment
options; including the option
to continue cover even after
stopping premiums post 5
years of policy.
• Free health check-up once
every two years.

Also get tax benefit


upto Rs. 15,000 on
premium paid u/s
Section 80D!
For further details, on risk factors and terms and conditions please read the policy document and
detailed benefit illustration before concluding the sale. P/II/212/2008-09

February 2009 elite life 37


Care to Share I In order to bridge this knowledge
gap ICICI Prudential Life has
Insurance and the income tax
edge

Tax Guru
launched www.taxguru08-09. Tax calculator to help calculate
com, a first of its kind initiative the tax liability
for providing assistance to
cracking the tax code
consumers as they plan their tax Additionally www.taxguru08-09.
“The hardest thing to understand saving investments. The website com also allows the consumers
in the world is income tax. “ – has been conceptualized with to interact with experts in the
Albert Einstein the objective of empowering taxation field via a unique online
Income tax. Two words that consumers to take an informed tax query resolution helpline.
can make even the bravest of decision when it comes to saving Consumers can write in with their
souls shift in their seats. And as tax. tax related concerns which are
for the rest of us – it drives us then answered by a dedicated
pretty close to a state of nervous The website covers a range of panel of expert. What more, it
anxiety. How much to save? topics under the ambit of income also allows you to view questions
What to invest in? How to file tax. Currently the site covers posted by others & the answers
tax? Questions. More questions. provided to those questions.
It’s almost as if, the end of year Tax saving rules and relevant So, this year make sure that the
annual examination of school sections of the IT Act tax season doesn’t leave you with
days is back to haunt us. Factors to be considered more questions than answers.
And this is one exam for which while making tax related With Tax Guru, you can get ready
most of us don’t seem to have investment decision to crack the tax code.
any preparation. Comparison between various
tax saving tools

www.taxguru08-09.com provides
assistance to consumers as they plan
their tax saving investments.

A recent research conducted by


ICICI Prudential Life Insurance
with market research agency
IMRB International shows a
shocking lack of awareness
about even rudimentary tax
related information even amongst
educated Indians. The research
which covered 900 respondents
across Delhi, Mumbai and
Chennai showed that people’s
awareness on various tax related
sections, tax savings instruments
or how much they can invest
in such instruments was much
lower than what one would
have expected given the overall
interest in the topic of tax.

38 elite life February 2009 P/II/213/2008-09


Care to Share II ways in which one can tackle
these health risks. One being
a comprehensive assessment
tool that evaluates you on all
preparing for future eventualities relevant health parameters.

Health Active (through adequate savings and


insurance) and the other being
Zappy guides you through the
questions and once you are
taking adequate precautions to done, you instantly get your
The Need avoid complications in future HealthCheck score and a detailed
We have seen a drastic
(preventive care). Both are report which is a complete round
transformation in our lifestyles
equally critical to ensure that one up of your current heath status,
over the last few years. Growing
is completely prepared. the health risks you are prone to
affluence and urbanization
and detailed recommendations
have led to several changes
in our lifestyles. Technological
The Solution on each area on how you can
At ICICI Prudential, we avoid them.
innovations such as PCs, mobile
understand how a holistic After taking stock of where
phones, internet have made our
solution is a combination of both you stand, the next step is to
lives simpler and have brought
these elements and therefore, know where you should reach.
us closer. At the same time, a
we present to you our wellness Here, Zappy encourages you to
growing economy and higher
offering – Health Active, set health goals on parameters
disposable incomes have made
integrated with our insurance such as weight, blood pressure,
it possible for more and more
products, available exclusively to cholesterol and blood sugar to
people to have access to these
all our policy holders. With Health ensure that you stay focused
conveniences. However, the
Active, you get a complete towards well defined health
effects have not all been positive.
solution for managing your objectives.
Stressful work environment, poor
health through a combination of Once you’ve set your goals,

Health Active is a complete solution for managing


your health through a combination of adequate
insurance protection & preventive care

eating habits, longer working adequate insurance protection


hours and sedentary lifestyles and preventive care.
have contributed to an alarming
increase in the incidence of How it helps?
lifestyle diseases such as Aimed at helping you stay
diabetes, obesity, hypertension, healthier, Health Active is a
coronary heart disease more personalized wellness program,
so, at a relatively younger age. designed not only to encourage
These may also result in a host users make health promises but
of complications that could also provide them with tools to
be fatal to life. To compound keep them! It is a platform which
the problem, escalating helps you assess current health
medical costs have made status, take corrective measures
medical treatment for these and get rewarded for staying
complications costlier. healthy.

This rising incidence of these The entire program is a fun-filled


diseases along with growing journey to health and well being.
urbanization has led to increased It gets you started by assessing
Zappy, your companion on your journey to good health.
health awareness. There are two your health through HealthCheck,

February 2009 elite life 39


Zappy helps you channelise your
energies towards achieving the
desired target. Based on your A Quick look at how Health Active benefits you
health goals, you get customized
diet and fitness plans to get Health Check – A comprehensive health risk assessment which
you started on the right note. provides a detailed report along with personalized recommendations.
Thereafter, you are guided Basis this, users can set their health goals.
through the rest of your journey Diet and fitness plans – Customized diet and fitness plans from
with the help of various tools and leading health consultants.
Health Coach – Experts guide and nudge you to make healthy
services. The resource centre
lifestyle changes to help you meet your health goals.
acts as a ready repository of
Health Active Hotline – Dieticians provide guidance and help resolve
health information. Health Active
health related queries on phone and through mail.
Coach & Hotline are phone-based
Special Offers – Attractive offers on healthcare products and
services where expert counselors
services such as diagnostic labs, gyms among others.
and dieticians advice you. To Resource Centre – Learn more about how small changes can go a
encourage you further, we long way towards a healthy lifestyle with our ready repository of
have even partnered with select health articles, recipes, quizzes and polls.
healthcare providers such as Personalised Communication – Receive regular reminders and
fitness centres and diagnostic personalized health information through emails to help you meet your
centres to provide you with health goals.
special offers on these services. Rewards – You get HealthPoints for your efforts towards becoming
and staying healthy which convert into exciting rewards!
And there’s more…

There’s more: Health Active even


rewards users with HealthPoints

In addition to ensuring a
healthy lifestyle for you, Health How to get started?
Active also rewards users with
HealthPoints on the efforts they
As an ICICI Prudential policyholder, you now get exclusive access
make for staying healthy! These
to Health Active. Start your journey towards good health today by
points get you exciting rewards
following these four simple steps:
as you accrue more and more of
them.
1. Visit the Health Active section on our
website www.iciciprulife.com
So what are you waiting for,
enroll yourself in the programme
2. Click “Register Now” button and enter your
today and reap the benefits of
policy details
good health!
3. Receive your login id and password on your
e-mail instantly

4. Login and get started!

Comp/doc/Feb/2009/1004

40 elite life February 2009


Money
Matters

We highlight the latest market movements and give


you a quick recap of the last month, along with our
fund managers’ outlook for the coming months.

Fixed Income Equity


Market As anticipated, the Reserve Bank Indian equity market has remained

Overview of India in its quarterly review of


the credit policy on January 27,
2009 kept all benchmark rates
practically flat over last three
months ended January, from point-
to-point, even as there was very
unchanged. The yield on the 10 high volatility in the intervening
Equity indices 30-Jan-09 31-Dec-08 % Change
year benchmark government period. The market saw a year-
BSE SENSEX 9,424 9,647 -2%
security rose by 0.90% in January end rally which was cut short by
S&P CNX NIFTY (50) 2,875 2,959 -3%
with the government announcing Satyam issue. The performance
INDIA BSE MIDCAP 2,941 3,235 -9%
an additional Rs. 50,000crs of Indian market has broadly been
CNX MIDCAP INDEX 3,357 3,736 -10%
borrowing program for the 1st in line with that of other emerging
quarter of 2009. Inflation for the markets, all of which have done
Global indices 30-Jan-09 31-Dec-08 % Change
week ended January 17th fell to better than developed countries’
DOW JONES 8,001 8,776 -9%
INDUSTRIALS 5.64%. equity markets in the recent
HANG SENG 13,278 14,387 -8% months. Foreign institutional
FTSE 100 4,150 4,434 -6% Corporate bond spreads continued investors who turned into net
NIKKEI 225 STOCK 7,994 8,860 -10% to remain high on fresh primary buyers in December were once
AVERAGE
supply. While the short tenure again net sellers during the
month of January – which was

Our investment philosophy aims to


proactively achieve superior risk-adjusted
returns on our funds under management.
corporate bonds saw some one reason why December rally
renewed buying from mutual could not sustain into January. The
GDP Growth
funds and banks, globally all weaker-than-expected third quarter
5 Year CAGR FY 08 1H FY 09
central banks continued to corporate results also added to sell
8.8% 9.0% 7.8%
maintain a soft interest rate off in some sectors of the market
Benchmark Returns 1Y 3Y 5Y
regime to boost their economies. during the month.
BSE 100 -52% -4% 9%

Outlook: Outlook:
Economic indicators The market is reacting to improving
With the government expected to
30-Jan-09 31-Dec-08 Change fundamental drivers on one hand,
announce an additional borrowing
Gold (Rs. / 10 gm) 15,481 14,772 5% i.e., falling commodity prices and
for the month of March, we
FII Fund flow (INR mn) (51,241) 21,008 (72,249) inflation, fiscal and monetary stimuli
expect government security
MF Fund flow (INR mn) (8,642) 3,407 (12,049) from policy-holders, and weak
yields to harden in the coming
DII Fund flow (INR mn) 37,180 19,060 18,120 current economic and corporate
month. We expect the 10 year
DII - MF fund flow 45,822 15,653 30,169 data on the other.
government security to be in the
We believe the market will remain
range of 5.50% - 6.50%. We can
volatile in the short-term, given the
Fixed income yields Dec 31, 2008 Jan 30, 2009 Change expect the Indian Rupee to remain
volatility in FII flows and uncertain
NSE Mibor 5.27% 4.25% -1.02% range bound in the month of
domestic economic environment.
5 year G-Sec 5.40% 6.00% 0.60% November. With prices of petrol
Our long-term view remains
5 year AAA 8.55% 8.94% 0.40% and diesel cut by Rs. 5 and Rs.
attractive given the depressed
10 year G-Sec 5.26% 6.26% 0.99% 2 respectively, we can expect
below-par valuation of Indian market
10 year AAA 8.13% 9.28% 1.15% inflation to fall further in the
and sound domestic economic
coming months.
fundamentals.

February 2009 elite life 41


Empower

No marriage is ever perfect. Both partners have to


work at making their marriage successful. Here’s
looking at ways to empower your relationship.

HAPPILY
Charuta Mehta

EVER AFTER...
M arriage: Noun • the formal
union of a man and a
woman, by which they become
husband and wife. That’s the
simple and easy-to-understand
meaning of the word ‘marriage’
as defined by the Oxford
dictionary. But understanding
the real-life meaning of marriage
is far more complex. The union
of a man and a woman means
the union of two people having
individual personalities, attitudes,
opinions, habits, interests,
friends and family! It is a union of
all these elements. And blending
so many varied ingredients to get
a combination that works isn’t
always (is never) an easy task.

By and large, there can never be


a tailor-made formula for a happy
marriage. It’s a lot of give and
take, and a lot about what you
make of it. Love is what makes
the world go round; love is also
what keeps a marriage going
despite the ups and downs.
Make it a point to express your
love for your spouse every now
and then. Again, no marriage
can be successful without an
element of trust. Unless you trust
your spouse, you can never be
your true self with them. While
love and trust are the basic
ingredients of any marriage,
42 elite life February 2009
Respect Adjustment
Nobody is perfect. We have When we make new friends,
to learn to respect our we find that our capacity to
spouses for who they are as love and to reach out expands.
individuals and accept them We make room in our hearts
that way. After all, each one for new friends without losing
of us has their own strengths hold of old friends. Marriage
and weaknesses. Focusing entails living with each other,
on strengths is good but sharing space. This means we
respecting a person in totality must learn to adjust and adapt
(strengths and weaknesses) to each other’s habits, likes and
is what a good relationship dislikes. For instance, husband
is all about. At the same and wife might favour different
here’s looking at other essentials time you can help each other cuisines. The way out is to find
of a successful marriage: overcome their shortcomings. a mid way solution. More often
That would create a beautiful than not, it is these simple
Communication bond. Don’t expect a total adjustments that go a long way
It is vital for both individuals in a change in personality—that’s in strengthening a relationship.
marriage to have free-flowing and unrealistic! The important Sometimes, adjusting may also
open communication. You may thing is neither partner involve leaving aside your ego
have the best intentions at heart should behave in a way so as to accommodate your partner’s
but they hold no value unless to jeopardize the respect in a wish; if you succeed in doing
you convey them to your spouse. relationship. that, you might have lost for that

Nobody is perfect. We have to learn to


respect our spouses for who they are
as individuals and accept them that way

Picture this – your wife is waiting Understanding moment but yours would be a
for you to pick her up from work Understanding flows from long term victory.
and you decide to surprise her awareness and acceptance.
with her favourite flowers. In the For instance, if you’re aware Honesty
bargain, you reach late and she’s and have accepted that your A happy marriage is one that
upset that you kept her waiting. partner keeps late hours at hinges on honesty. While many
The flowers lose their importance; work, especially on some days may argue that ‘ignorance is
the fact that you kept her waiting of the month and that this is an (usually) bliss’ too many secrets
takes the front seat. But if you had intrinsic part of their job portfolio, between partners can damage
made just one call or sent an SMS you won’t create a fuss over it
saying that you would be late, unnecessarily. Similarly, if your
the scenario would have been partner has to stay back in the
different. Even if it seems trivial, office on those very days when
say it aloud to your partner; every you have to work late, you will be
little piece of communication more understanding about it and
matters. Of course, an important maybe even work out a plan so
aspect of communication is also as to reach home early that day.
to know instinctively when to remain Both partners must understand
silent; sometimes, silence is golden. each other for a relationship to
be successful.

February 2009 elite life 43


their relationship. It takes courage also the union of two families. of your decision helps you
to be honest and no one can be Especially in India, where the implement it better.
completely honest all the time, yet family plays a very important role
it’s better to be honest and face in marriage, it is necessary to be Catching up on
the music rather than bear the able to mould yourself as per your together time
burden of guilt thereafter. Typically, spouse’s family. Understanding and Lifestyles have become
when you are at ease with yourself respecting their customs and as far increasingly hectic today. In
and your spouse, honesty follows as possible, adhering to them, will nine out of ten cases, couples
naturally. For instance, if you decide make your spouse’s family accept leave home early and return late,
to go for a couple of drinks after you with greater ease. At the same fatigued and irritable. Work is
office, don’t tell your wife that it time, this doesn’t mean losing your even carried home. This is excess
was work that kept you from going individuality and self esteem. baggage that must be dealt with,
home early. Tell her the real reason. at least at times, in order to make
In any case, if you lie, she might Keeping the Interest
find out the truth sooner or later. Alive
One of the challenges in a
Personal Space relationship is how to keep the
A man once told his friend, “My interest alive. Once the so-called
wife and I go out for dinner ‘honeymoon period’ is over and
four times a week. She goes on the novelty wears off, it becomes
Monday & Wednesday and I go all the more important to revive
on Tuesday & Thursday.” This is that vital spark in a relationship.
obviously the lighter side of things Sometimes it’s as simple as going
but giving each other space in a back to dating each other. Gift your

No marriage can ever be tailor-made.


It takes two to understand and accept
each other and make it work.

marriage is significant, especially partner the choicest perfume, send time for each other. Spend quality
today when the gender divide is them flowers (or chocolates if they time together; work out a common
fast blurring and there is growing happen to be chocoholics), sit fitness regime, plan a surprise
importance being attached to them down to a romantic dinner by dinner date, go on a holiday
personal independence and candlelight, and so on and so forth. together, there are umpteen
dignity. It is important for both Even asking your partner how their number of options if there is
partners to acknowledge that each day went can keep up the interest indeed the will.
person has their own interests in an otherwise drab schedule.
and that pursuing these helps These are a few essentials of a
them grow as individuals. Thus, Supporting Career happy marriage. We hope they
respecting and allowing each other Decisions will empower you, if need be,
their own space is an important Today, double income families are to revisit your marriage and
step towards a happy marriage a common sight. Both partners make the necessary changes
where neither of the partners feels have jobs or are professionals in so as to lead a fuller, happier
smothered by the weight of the their own right. Being supportive life. It’s important to understand
relationship. of your spouse’s career choices that there is no recipe for a
and encouraging them on that successful marriage. The crux is
Family Relations path can do wonders for a that both partners need to work
Though marriage is essentially relationship. Besides, knowing at it to make their marriage a
the union of two individuals, it is that your spouse is supportive happy one!
Images: Dreamstime.com

44 elite life February 2009


Inspire

In a free wheeling chat with chef Sanjeev


Kapoor and wife Alyona Kapoor, we attempt
to look at the persona behind the fame and
publicity.

By Heer
Rustom P. Kothari
Davar

What’s Cooking?

C hef Sanjeev Kapoor of Khana


Khazana fame has a lot going
for him apart from the widespread
recognition the show has brought
him. His wife Alyona Kapoor,
although the lesser known of the
two, stands solidly behind him in all
of his ventures both old and new.
The couple is blessed with two lovely
daughters, who according to their
own admission, complete their lives.
Beyond 9 to 5
It’s early afternoon and the Khana
Khazana office is bustling with
activity: dishes are being served
up one after the other even as
photo-ops and shoots take place
simultaneously. Sanjeev and
Alyona Kapoor have a vital role to
play in the Zee TV family; Khana
Khazana, anchored by Sanjeev
Kapoor, happens to be one of the
longest running shows on Zee
TV. The couple send a variety of
recipes on a day-to-day basis to
an assortment of dailies. That’s
not all. Shortly, Sanjeev plans to
launch his very own food channel.
And, he is absolutely kicked
about having been presented
an opportunity to speak at the
House of Commons sometime
mid-February. Modestly, he adds,
that apart from being an honour,

It took the Kapoors over 15 years to


achieve what they have today but they
won’t let success go to their head.

he is looking at it as an opportunity as the management of processed


to wipe out pre-conceived notions foods. And while Khana Khazana
about Indian cuisine and food may have branched out in many
habits. different directions, the core
strength still remains; the show
Take two manages to bag a trophy in two or
“My wife is the key to my success,” three key areas annually. “Working
says Sanjeev. “The best thing about with Sanjeev ensures that I spend
Alyona is that she completes me,” enough time with him. There are
he adds. Alyona indeed plays a times we disagree on things and
very significant role in Sanjeev’s times when we act on instinct but
life. While he effectively manages all this has just made us stronger
the front-end, she efficiently over the years,” says Alyona about
handles the back-end. The woman working with her husband.
behind Sanjeev’s success not only
handles the production of food In the public eye
shows but also the vast finances It took the Kapoors, who also
of the growing Khana Khazana happen to be elite customers of
empire encompassing several ICICI Prudential Life, over 15 years
restaurants across the globe, the to achieve what they have today;
production of recipe books as well they won’t allow success go to
46 elite life February 2009
their head. If at all, success has
made them even more conscious
of their commitment to family
and society. In his professional
life, Sanjeev has to interact with
chefs in Mumbai, India and
abroad; Sanjeev welcomes their
suggestions just as they welcome
his. At the recently concluded
Mumbai Marathon, the Kapoors
ran for a cause, i.e. autistic
children. Both Sanjeev and Alyona
grew up in utmost simplicity
and they would love to retain
it. They’ve inculcated the same
values in their children. One day
the Kapoors hope their daughter/s
will take over the business and
take it to altogether new heights.

Together time
Business is a priority but family
comes first for the Kapoors. “Apart

At the recently concluded Mumbai


Marathon, the Kapoors ran for a
cause, i.e. autistic children.

from work, family indeed is the Whenever friends are coming over
first priority for Sanjeev and me,” (which is often), Sanjeev decides
says Alyona. However busy they on the menu while Alyona does
might be, the Kapoors manage the shopping and basic cooking.
to make time for quick vacations; Lending the finishing touches and
month long annual vacations have cooking that special something
been quite popular with them. is of course, left to the master
When not working, they prefer to chef…
spend time with their daughters,
catching up on movies, etc. Their Down memory lane
younger daughter Kriti keeps her We wonder how did they meet?
father on his toes as they spend Alyona blushes as she mentions
time playing indoor cricket and how Sanjeev looked in those
table tennis. “We like to weave days when they were courting.
in work and pleasure,” says the “I wish I could see more of him
doting father. Alyona jokingly in his chef’s uniform, like how it
adds, “I meet Sanjeev more when was back then,” she says. For her,
he is out of town as compared meeting Sanjeev was like meeting
to when he is in town.” So who her soul-mate and she thanks
wears the trousers in the kitchen? her older sister for it, who was
training to be a chef at that time.
February 2009 elite life 47
Bookmark

In Imagining India, Nandan Nilekani looks at


young India’s past, present and future while
in Outliers, Malcolm Gladwell explains why
some people are so successful.

IN FOCUS

IDEAS
THAT HAVE
ARRIVED
I Like to think of my generation
as the ‘bridging generation’,
the one that exists between the
India of the old and the new, and
which straddles the divides and
the ideas that separate the two
countries. We are the ones who
were there in the crowds both in
the 1950s and in the 1990s—as
children, we accompanied
our parents to cheer Nehru, a
statesman an entire generation
had found tremendously inspiring
in his ideas for a ‘compassionate
state’ and his passion for the
country. And we were also
there, if weather-beaten by
the years that had passed, to
see Manmohan Singh release
his reformist policy in 1991—a
politician who could not be more
different from Nehru in his quiet
demeanour, economic beliefs and
soft-spoken speech, but who was
nevertheless as much a believer
48 elite life February 2009
in the power of ideas. And in this When the other founders and I that have huge natural resources,
shift, we have witnessed how contemplated the idea of Infosys but not the entrepreneurs and
much India has changed and how in 1981, I had no shortage of technologies to spread the
powerful a role ideas have played friends and relatives trying to wealth. And there are countries
in overturning established beliefs. dissuade me from joining such whose previous, unsuccessful
a ‘foolhardy venture’. ‘Don’t be experiences with globalization
It is interesting to see how
an idiot,’ an uncle told me. ‘A have scarred them so deeply that
an entire country changed its
start-up will find it impossible to they shun it, and this limits how
mind on core beliefs, in shifts
do business here.’ Two decades much they can gain from their
that took decades. The Indian
later, however, I was being feted domestic strength. In essence, I
transformation was not one
as a first-generation entrepreneur, think no other country in the world
launched from the ramparts of
and my socialist father was in right now has the combination
the Red Fort in Delhi or from the
attendance at each of Infosys’s that makes the Indian opportunity
corporate boardrooms of Nariman
shareholder meetings. so significant.
Point in Bombay.
In my time at the company, I We Indians have keenly felt
Rather, these new ideas gained
saw many such transformations. both our humiliations and
acceptance because a wide
One was how the perception of our successes. So the buzz
swathe of people across the
IT changed rapidly across Indian surrounding our two and a half
country had experiences very
industry—fifteen years ago, the decades of growth has not been
different from what they had
chairman of a leading bank, the missed by any of us. Wherever I
been told and taught to expect.
Union Bank of India, criticized my go, I find that Indians know our
People who had been steeped
efforts to promote the benefits growth numbers backwards and
in Indian-language schools one
of bank computerization to the forwards, and there is a strong,
day found their advancement

Wherever I go, I find that Indians know our


growth numbers backwards and forwards,
and there is a strong, common feeling among
us that our country has finally come of age.
thwarted as they encountered the industry. Recently, however, his common feeling among us that
English barrier. The construction successor called me up and told our country has finally come of
worker who viewed technology me with pride that they were age. But it has not been an easy
and computers with suspicion running the entire bank on one ride—the ideas that now bedrock
found his mobile phone with its central computer system. India’s economy took decades
ten-rupee recharge indispensable to be widely accepted and were
India has gained dramatically
in getting his next job. The often caught up in the storm of
from similar, massive changes
Indian engineer who parleyed our politics and shifts in public
in our attitudes towards our
his education for a job in Silicon opinion. In retrospect, each big
population, entrepreneurs, the
Valley experienced the promise part of the Indian miracle seems a
English language, globalization
of globalization. And the Dalit little miraculous.
and democracy. It has made
farm worker who had long been
India a country that right now
sidelined in economic opportunity
has a unique cadence, where all
began to discover that he too
our major strengths have come
could use his growing political
together and matured at the same
voice to bring about more Excerpted with permission
time. There are countries around
inclusive policies. from Penguin Books India from
the world, for instance, which are
Completely unintentionally, at a demographic sweet spot, but Imagining India: Ideas for the
my career took place at the lack the democracy they need to New Century by Nandan Nilekani
heart of this change in ideas. exploit it. There are some nations Viking Rs. 699

February 2009 elite life 49


T he particular skill that allows
you to talk your way out of
a murder rap, or convince your
professor to move you from
the morning to the afternoon
section, is what the psychologist
Robert Sternberg calls “practical
intelligence”. To Sternberg,
practical intelligence includes
things like “knowing what to say
to whom, knowing when to say
it, and knowing how to say it for
maximum effect.” It is procedural:
it is about knowing how to do
something without necessarily
knowing why you know it or being
able to explain it. It’s practical in
nature: that is, it’s not knowledge
for its own sake. It’s knowledge
that helps you read situations
correctly and get what you want.
And, critically, it is a kind of
intelligence separate from the
sort of analytical ability measured
by IQ. To use the technical term,
general intelligence and practical
intelligence are “orthogonal”:
the presence of one doesn’t
imply the presence of the other.

50 elite life February 2009


You can have lots of analytical notebook in the other. family—Katie Brindle—sang in a
intelligence and very little practical You might expect that if you choir after school. But she signed
intelligence, or lots of practical spent such an extended period up for it herself and walked to
intelligence and not much in twelve different households, choir practice on her own. Lareau
analytical intelligence, or—as in what you would gather is twelve writes: What Mrs. Brindle doesn’t
the lucky case of someone like different ideas about how to raise do that is routine for middle-class
Robert Oppenheimer—you can children: there would be the strict mothers is view her daughter’s
have lots of both. parents and the lax parents and interest in singing as a signal to
So where does something like the hyperinvolved parents and look for other ways to help her
practical intelligence come the mellow parents and on and develop that interest into a formal
from? We know where analytical on. What Lareau found, however, talent. Similarly Mrs. Brindle
intelligence comes from. It’s is something much different. does not discuss Katie’s interest
something, at least in part, that’s There were only two parenting in drama or express regret that
in your genes. Chris Langan “philosophies”, and they divided she cannot afford to cultivate her
started talking at six months. He almost perfectly along class lines. daughter’s talent. Instead she
taught himself to read at three The wealthier parents raised their frames Katie’s skills and interests
years of age. He was born smart. kids one way, and the poorer as character traits — singing and
IQ is a measure, to some degree, parents raised their kids another acting are part of what makes
of innate ability. But social savvy way. Katie “Katie”. She sees the shows
is knowledge. It’s a set of skills The wealthier parents were her daughter puts on as “cute”
that have to be learned. It has heavily involved in their children’s and as a way for Katie to “get
to come from somewhere, and free time, shuttling them from one attention”.
the place where we seem to get activity to the next, quizzing them The middle-class parents talked
these kinds of attitudes and skills about their teachers and coaches things through with their children,

We know where analytical intelligence comes


from. It’s something, at least in part, that’s in
your genes. But social savvy is knowledge.
It’s a set of skills that have to be learned.

is from our families. and teammates. One of the reasoning with them. They didn’t
Perhaps the best explanation well-off children Lareau followed just issue commands. They
we have of this process comes played on a baseball team, two expected their children to talk
from the sociologist Annette soccer teams, a swim team, and a back to them, to negotiate, to
Lareau, who a few years ago basketball team in the summer, as question adults in positions of
conducted a fascinating study well as playing in an orchestra and authority. If their children were
of a group of third graders. She taking piano lessons. doing poorly at school, the
picked both blacks and whites That kind of intensive scheduling wealthier parents challenged their
and children from both wealthy was almost entirely absent from teachers.
homes and poor homes, zeroing the lives of the poor children.
in, ultimately, on twelve families. Play for them wasn’t soccer
Lareau and her team visited each practice twice a week. It was
family at least twenty times, for making up games outside with
hours at a stretch. She and her their siblings and other kids in
assistants told their subjects to the neighborhood. What a child
treat them like “the family dog”, did was considered by his or her
and they followed them to church parents as something separate Excerpted with permission
and to soccer games and to from the adult world and not from Penguin Books India from
doctor’s appointments, with a particularly consequential. Outliers: The story of success by
tape recorder in one hand and a One girl from a working-class Malcolm Gladwell

February 2009 elite life 51


Soothsayer

Your fortune foretold through tarot cards

Fortuneteller
Manisha Singh Dudaney

Aries Taurus
(22 Mar–21 Apr) (22 Apr–21 May) Gemini
(22 May–21 Jun)
Your tarot card is Your tarot card is
“The Nine of Wands” depicting “The Chariot” depicting hectic Your tarot card is
valour and victory. At work, you activity and travel. Far out “The seven of Cups” depicting
are energetic and on your toes, people and lands call out to you heightened creativity. You are
as you move towards urgent and you are more than eager full of new ideas and ways of
deadlines on prestigious projects. to showcase your talents and implementing them into your
If involved in metaphysical receive rave responses and business/work, especially if
phenomena or medicine, study business all along the way. you happen to be involved in
and research for the same may For those in public relations/ garments/jewellery and beauty.
take you overseas. Expenditures marketing and sales, golden Studying the market and going
remain high and investing in short opportunities knock on your slow on your strategy will

term ventures helps. Both at work door. Seeking advice from ensure success. Money comes
and in your personal life, you get others has limited success in quickly and recycling it
ready for action as the wheel of and it is wise to follow your is sheer joy. Business wise,
fortune turns in your favour and own instincts when it comes realizing your shortcoming and
touches everything you desire. to tricky decisions. You tread acknowledging your lack of
If involved in the media/ slowly yet steadily towards personal participation helps
entertainment industry, new your goals making sure you you work out new plans.
ideas are interesting and you leave no stone unturned. Meetings and negotiations
build a team that helps you get Competition and rivalry may be with prospective clients, along
the right perspective. Purchasing at its peak if dealing in retail, with supportive team mates
a new home/property is a wise design and manufacturing. and associates will build the
decision. Most of you will get However, you combat it with infrastructure which then helps
overtly aware in 2009 about skill and diplomacy. Finances expansion. Health is an area you
the perfect mind-body-spirit grow and with it grows your may have to look into, especally
connection, and make time for a self-confidence as you move up if you have long working hours,
regular work out regime or yoga the ladder of success. Health and erratic eating habits.
or a spa session. Those of you is satisfactory, and you involve A healthy diet and sufficient
who suffer from bouts of acidity yourself in a sport activity, protein intake will ensure better
or have stomach disorders, stay and make sure that you keep focus and good sleep. Love
calm and indulge in loads yourself fit and full of zest and life is peaceful. Enjoy romantic
of fruit. enthusiasm, using the positive weekends with your adventurous
energy generously. partner.

52 elite life February 2009


Cancer conducive at first and yet your to understand the pulse of the
sensibilities and personal power market and people. Sales/marketing
(22 Jun–21 Jul) will make all the positive difference individuals have reason to celebrate
Your tarot card is to the result. At work, there is as seniors appreciate them. Health
“The Empress” depicting a sense a tendency to be cornered by may tend to be taken for granted
of fulfillment and contentment. demanding associates and difficult by many of you; it is vital you take
Freedom is what you desire and seniors. You are urged to be your vitamins and make sure you
freedom is what you truly achieve more patient and private in your stay far away from junk/fried foods
as you find yourself confident and thoughts, not allowing impulsive especially if travelling. Alternative
full of conviction at work. Your speech or action. You pass with medicines, herbal teas and dry
sense of self-esteem inspires flying colours and are ready to take fruits help keep you peppy and
others to give better than their on many upcoming challenges. encouraged. Marriage bells might
best, helping the bigger picture. You manage to do the impossible ring for singles, much celebration
Some of you look at new avenues with a smile and receive many is in view and you paint the town
to enhance financial gains. Support a pat on your back, along with red with your family and friends.
and advice from loved ones a free hand to apply new ideas
is endless. Achievements and and ideals to current projects. If Libra
involved in radio/broadcasting/
breakthroughs can be expected at
television, you may be given many
(22 Sep–21 Oct)
work. Position and power are your
destiny and you are appreciated an adventurous portfolio and may Your tarot card is
with a raise in your wages coupled be expected to fulfill it to the “The Nine Of Pentacles” depicting
with a better designation. You utmost. Health remains good and a period of wish fulfillment. Ask
will also receive many new offers those who suffer from stress will and you shall receive is very much
and opportunities from within indulge in meditation, breathing the pulse of the week and you can
and outside of your professional techniques and staying positive. strike gold, if you continue being as
sphere of activity. Take a calculated Your love life is a dream. positive. Your current projects may

chance and you will strike gold. Virgo require sudden travel and tons of
Your leadership, under which paperwork. Delegating responsibility
certain prestigious projects will
(22 Aug–21 Sep)
is advised. Finances improve slowly.
be tested, will bring you loads Your tarot card is Many a hectic schedule at work,
of acclaim and fame, Love life is “Temperance” depicting a more and you give it your best. However,
calm, and remains your strength confident you. Smooth sailings at you may be taking on more than you
as you utilise weekends to catch work come about because you can handle and as such, you may
up on a healthy lifestyle, nature are sure of your ideas and build on make the move from quantity to
trips,hobbies like trekking/golfing action-oriented plans. You create a quality. If involved in manufacturing/
and other outdoor activities. supportive team to back you up and production, orders multiply—money
expand on many a thought to make being splendid. Short and fulfilling
Leo sure your campaign/deal/project work-related journeys are on the
receives accolades. Money inflow is anvil. Those in media, progress
(22 Jul–Aug 23) slowly yet steadily, getting better
good and splurging over weekends
Your tarot card is on clothes and accessories ratings and experimenting with
“The Queen of Wands” depicting makes you feel and look beautiful. innovative thoughts. Health is good
quick and wise decisions. Whether an entrepreneur or but skipping meals may cause
People and situations may be employed, you widen your horizons acidity and malnutrition; it would be
high flying and tricky, trying your by taking up new risks/challenges. wise to carry fruit/biscuits to make
patience, and instigating you Although, your progress is slow and sure you don’t go on an empty
to take important actions. The obstacles may need to be looked stomach for long hours. Milk/milk
environment may not be very at more obtusely, you manage products are good for you. Love life

February 2009 elite life 53


is intriguing and passionate... make funds freely towards investments/ in arts/entertainment will be in the
hay while the sun shines! machines. If involved in sales/ spotlight. You are at your artistic
marketing, trips overseas will best and mingling with like-
Scorpio be knowledgeable and helpful minded folks. Exchange of ideas
(22 Oct–21 Nov) in pushing the right buttons for might bring a new contract to
growth in your chosen field. Health fruition. Adding numbers to your
Your tarot card is is your top priority, as you want team will get you better work.
“The Hermit” depicting the need to make a great impression on If employed, there is nothing to
to stop, soul-search, plan and then your peers and those you meet. stop you from branching out in a
act. You may know it all and yet Spending weekends at a health spa new direction at work. Finances
miss out on a few crucial points and enjoying a much loved sport or look up and you enjoy spending
in your chosen field. Making your hobby leaves you feeling energised. money. Health is good, you enjoy
mark is not all. You decide to get Your love life is a roller coaster ride a good appetite (make sure to
real in order to really excel. You and you do novel things to surprise have a good nutrient intake), and
are advised to take team-support your partner. maybe, you might join a dance
and feedback along with criticism class, etc. Your love life is steady
constructively. The weekends spell Capricorn and catching up over long,
happy outings with loved ones. (22 Dec–21 Jan) luxurious weekends is refreshing
Many of you may find yourself and mentally stimulating.
between an inevitable end and a Your tarot card is
new beginning both in terms of “Two of wands” depicting a Pisces
your professional and personal slow, steady and yet eventful
phase. Responsibilities at work
(22 Feb–21 Mar)
life. At the workplace, you strive
hard for perfection and manage to increase, and you will be required Your tarot card is
achieve it when you least expect. to keep focused If in the field of “The Heirophant” depicting
Travel for business-cum-pleasure communication/ media/events, transition. Both personally and

is possible.Health will remain an a hectic schedule with many a professionally, changes are
issue. For those who have recently frequent business-related journey indicated. Keeping in mind
gained weight, a well-balanced is on the cards. You enjoy money, the bigger picture and working
diet and regular cardio-vascular success and fame. Weekends are meticulously towards your
exercises are the long term good for catching up with old pals goals brings about positive
solution to your problem. Love life and enjoying fun times at favourite developments. Making steady
is good, and if single, get ready to hideouts. Health should be your progress becomes a priority as
meet your soul mate. prime focus, especially if you you walk that extra mile to achieve
happen to suffer from knee/joint perfection. Your ambitious streak
Sagittarius aches and pains. Make sure that helps you aim higher and take
(22 Nov–21 Dec) you get exercise, take brisk walks action. Lady luck is on your side
in the morning, and take in calcium and you make big moves through
Your tarot card is in sufficient quantities. If single, you stocks/shares and short-term
“The Magician” depicting might meet someone interesting in investments. If employed, you may
movement and momentum. After your travels. be offered a business partnership
much thought and strategy, you by a close friend who needs
might come to a conclusion about Aquarius your ideas and is ready to take
certain key decisions at work. You (22 Jan–21Feb) calculated financial risks. Go ahead,
rely on associates to support you, things will shape up brilliantly. You
and work ceremoniously towards Your tarot card is know that health is wealth and make
big, important current ventures. “Strength” depicting a time time to get into shape. Your love
Finances improve as you use discovery. Those of you involved life is adventurous and keeps your
energy levels high .
54 elite life February 2009
Mind
Games

Exercise your mind with these fun puzzles and quizzes.

Brain
Teasers
Health Quiz
1) Who is most likely to experience 6) What is the role of insulin in the
osteoarthritis? body? 9) To prevent heartburn, you should
A. A man over 65 A. It converts glucose (from wait after eating before exercising
B. A woman over 65 food) into usable energy for:
C. A 25-year-old distance runner (correct) A. 30 minutes
B. It increases your blood B. 1-2 hours
2) How many calories equal one sugar after eating a meal C. 2-3 hours (correct)
pound of body fat? C. It helps you digest carbo- D. At least 3 hours
A. 750 hydrates and sugar E. It doesn’t matter
B. 1,350 properly
C. 3,500 D. All of the above
D. 3,750

3) Which of the following foods is a 7) If left uncontrolled, diabetes can 10) Type 1, Type 2 and Gestational
source of heart-healthy fats? lead to: diabetes have something in
A. Peanut butter A. Blindness common:
B. Coconut oil B. Gum disease A. They are autoimmune
C. Baked foods C. Digestive problems disorders
D. Reduced-fat cream cheese D. Kidney damage or failure B. They involve an inability to
E. Poultry E. Impotence make insulin
F. Amputation C. They are caused by high-sugar
4) What level of blood cholesterol is G. All of the above diets
considered healthy? D. They occur in adulthood
A. Above 250 mg/dL 8) A woman is said to be in E. They result in high levels
B. Below 200 mg/dL menopause when: of glucose in the blood stream
E 10.
C. Above 60 mg/dL A. She starts having hot flushes
C 9.
D. Below 150 mg/dL B. She has gone for one full year
B 8.
without experiencing a
G 7.
5) What is considered an optimal menstrual period
A 6.
blood pressure reading? C. Her menstrual periods become
B 5.
A. 140/60 irregular
B 4.
B. 120/80 D. She exhibits symptoms like
A 3.
C. 130/90 irritability and depression
C 2.
D. 100/85 E. All of the above
B 1.
Solution
February 2009 elite life 55
Sudoku Crossword

Across: Down:
1) Attractive, interesting

Jumble
1) Round shape
5) Boiled candy 2) Abstain
6) Apportion 3) Faithfulness
7) Complex protein 4) Large-scale combat

I O B T A A N M

This is home to about 1 million people

A B O T I N A M

Crossword

PONDER
FRUIT
SOCIAL
ONION
SHADOW
VIPER
ALBINO
UNWED
WISELY
QUORUM
BRAVO
C LOTH
Sudoku Jumble
Solution:
56 elite life February 2009

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