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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.
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.
Sincerely,
Shikha Sharma
Managing Director & CEO
ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Company Limited
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.
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.
Spenta Multimedia
45 Inspire Executive Publisher
Meet celebrity couple Sanjeev and Maneck Davar
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
Tanyushka Hansotia
Living in
Harmony
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
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
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
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
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
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
Ajeya Row
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
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
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
Nivedita Churiwal
Budget a la mode
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
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
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,
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
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
At a Glance
ICICI Pru Pure Protect Classic ICICI Pru Pure Protect Elite
Min/Max Entry Age 18-65 years 18-65 years
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
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Comp/doc/Feb/2009/1004
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.
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.
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.
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
By Heer
Rustom P. Kothari
Davar
What’s Cooking?
Together time
Business is a priority but family
comes first for the Kapoors. “Apart
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 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
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
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.
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
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
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
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