Soon I was treated to a bulky bottle of light yellow that contained more ice crystals than what was promised, milk! As I thoughtfully sipped the same, I noticed my dear friend, busy combing the Caventers’ vicinities for some more affinity-building gestures. The bottle, inconveniently big, both for my hands and face, probably hid my smile but certainly did not succeed in block my gaze that suddenly fell at the poor child who stood in front of me, a few inches away, in his effort to not make his adversities look so obvious!

Can’t say if he was dark or in desperate need of a shower, the divine law ensured that the innocence in the eyes of a 4 yr old remained just the same, be it the poor or the rich! He stood pondering, walking his index finger inside his mouth, probably the only taste he had felt since the break of the dawn.

In all the deprivation that one would observe without any efforts, I searched for some hues of happiness that must be brightening his world too. Sure enough, the soft sound emanating from his anklets that every mother would love to adorn her child with, along with his big tummy that made up for the absence of a dholak, as n when he wanted to entertain himself, made him resemble the child god, Ganesha. Of course, one would require a discerning eye for savoring such resemblance for the obvious elements of prosperity were miles away from his appearance. His persistent self stood hopeful, at a comfortable distance, perhaps, sensing my discomfort with the bottle by now.

Falling for this sight, I was determined to add my own stroke to this near finished painting that quietly radiated divine resemblance. Humming a song to myself, I poured the milk into a plastic cup and gently handed it over to the cherub in question. His eyes held the glass even more gently, but definitely after a quick glance of disbelief at me...! I saw his small hands firmly cupped around the plastic, careful enough not to crush it at the same time. I waited for his twinkling eyes to look at me again, smile may be…but his eyes were only dipped in the plastic! I waited for him to finish, without the slightest bit of hurry in my gait; after all, he was only a child! He finally tilted the glass and his head, for the want of the last sip.....finally obliging me with a smile! Soon, I made another round of plastic land in his hands, they were, ‘expert’ by now!

P.S. Caventers, less ice pls!

Flowers from your backyard, stone/clay sculptures or modern art that now rests in the palm of your hand, I thought I came in to buy some candles! I breeze over endless lanes dedicated to these objects d’art, only to find out that they gain more attention than their pale, straight version of the yesteryears. Needless to say, they no longer serve the purpose of just doing away with the dark!
In fact, after being enthralled by such interesting styles, you’d wish your pad/workplace were more dimly lit than usual. Apologies to all those on a diet who have pledged not to even look at the dessert section, because these thick bricks of cooking chocolate-like creations may give you a second thought (Let me tell you, they do not come with such warnings!)

If you’re an aqua lover, create a seascape of azure blues and turquoise followed by an equally tantalizing aroma in your house. To add to the twinkle in your eyes, try some laced candles as you enjoy the slight ruffle of tissue in your hands. How about converting your sojourn in the bath into an elaborate ritual? Arrange a few drops of light in a secured corner and let your imagination take its course!
The shades are also no longer confined to lippies, a vibrant mix enhances their wonderful glow.
As seasons change, so do our modern day aesthetics, but with such interesting shapes and colors, not only is it hard to bid adieu to our illuminated pals but harder to keep away from adding to one’s collection of these goodies, you’ll want to hold with as much love as your own baby. Tempted..? Who isn’t?

Available in leading shopping malls, this one especially comes from Lifestyle - Home

White textured walls and plain black flooring creates a perfect backdrop for presenting a riot of colors that comes your way when you enter, Collage. The brainchild of Priya Vasudevan and Lata Madhu, situated in the heart of the city, Collage is known for a plethora of names from the world of fashion (Kavitha Bhartia, Pankaj Ahuja, Sirali and Bian) showcasing various genres, housing urban, western wear and traditional formals.
As our femme fatales devour the store of its goodies, the men do not need to complain for their lack of space either, because Hemant Sagar’s casual club wear and crisp formals are more than just a respite! It should be noted that this is the only place in India where his collections sit pretty for your quick picks.
Moving from urban westerns to Neeru Kumar’s casual wear, her no-heavy-duty makings are a pleasant surprise. Plain cuts and soothing colors from the pale palette are all available for you.
Well, if you thought its all about western hues that catch your eye, step in to feast at the heavily embellished saris by Nida Mohmood for some striking color combos or delicate stone and bead embroideries on chikan or net skirts for a comparatively subdued look. Putting an end to all your wardrobe woes, the clothes can be customized to suit your style.
This spacious setting nestles not just clothes but also jewellery by Amrapali, along with accessories and home d’cor items, making it a complete shopping halt. As you look around deciding which collections to choose from, notice some contemporary metal work pieces or delicate, chandelier candle stands totally complementing the look of the store, in all its finery.
While you’re at it, spend some more time viewing handmade, porcelain items by Ishika. You may pick up ’something nice’ for your house as well.
Playing host to the creations of some popular names in the industry, this designer store makes your shopping regime an exciting and, an overall satisfied experience that is a lot more than worth your while! Drop in!