Author: Karina Pandya

    Believed to be the birthplace of yoga, Rishikesh holds a significant place in this ancient practice. Yoga is considered one of the most calming and rejuvenating practices for the mind and body.    As I am a relatively novice to yoga, I decided to attend a yoga retreat where I could be guided through enhanced yogic postures and techniques. I came across Aishwarya Sahu’s yoga retreat in Rishikesh and was immediately drawn to it. It was scheduled from November 13th to 17th at Oneness Rishikesh by Ganga Kinare, a luxurious wilderness resort in Byasi village.    This 12-private cottage…

Providing a gateway to self-awareness, mindfulness, and even a deeper connection with the universe, prana- better known as breath or life force, is the Centre of almost every activity in the misty Himalayan mountains of Rishikesh. Located on the banks of the river Ganga, the clean environment amplifies conscious breathing and practices of yoga and meditation.   The crisp, oxygen-rich air is bound to rejuvenate anyone visiting this serene place. Rishikesh’s location is right at the foothills of the Himalayas and on the banks of the river Ganga is surrounded by thick and dense forests and wildlife.   In…

Also known as the Yoga Capital of the World or the Gateway to the Garwal Himalayas, Rishikesh (also known as Hrishikesh) is located on the bank of the sacred and pristine river Ganges. Well known for its unique blend of spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty, Rishikesh beckons people from India and worldwide.    There is something for everyone, from ancient temples to ashrams to even adrenaline-pumping activities. Home to many ashrams, one of the most famous ashrams is known as the Beatles Ashram (Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram), which was once inhabited by the popular band The Beatles, who studied meditation…

It was a calm evening and everything was quiet around me, everything was calm until I received the sharp blow of this tiny creature slapping me with her paw and digging her deep nails into my soft skin! It seemed as if she was teasing me with the words,  “Not today. HUMAN!”  It was as if she won a silent battle, by lifting her paws and pausing with dramatic effects before she reached out to give a swift, slap on my arm. She was a little devil in disguise and as I was wailing with pain to think that I…

The unmistakable Charlie Chaplin-looking cat is a black and white cat known for her cute moustache.  She has a quiet and gentle presence in the house and mirrors the silent film star Charlie Chaplin himself. She has a very serene and contemplative personality and you can often find her hidden atop the cupboard in the room. She has soft and graceful movements and moves quietly like a shadow. She doesn’t like to seek attention or demand things with meows. She instead communicates with her expressive eyes and very subtle gestures. She likes to enjoy the tiniest of things from…

This beautiful cat, who is well known for her distinctive Hitler-like moustache has a very bold and comical personality.  She has an unmistakable confidence and saunters a lot from room to room. She walks with a swagger and always tries to surpass Mini, acting as if she is in charge of the house. She is notorious for her paws and gives authoritative slaps with them, though her slaps are very gentle. She is a real whiner always crying out for attention. Her black and white furr adds to her unique look and she has a flair for drama, knowing…

He exhibits an air of elegance and calmness which commands attention. He has a rich, luxurious golden-coloured coat and striking wide golden-coloured eyes. He carries a very regal poise and comes across as laid-back and serene. He is affectionate but is extremely lazy. He prefers the comforts of the soft bed over a cosy lap or energetic play. He gives gentle head nudges from time to time or just by curling up beside you rather than seeking constant attention. Although he has a very calm demeanour he has a curious streak about him. When he is not lounging or…

She is one of those calico cats who exuded an air of grace and elegance. She carries herself with a lot of poise and is always seen meticulously grooming her multiple-coloured hair to perfection. Her whiskers were never out of place. She prides herself on her graceful movements and has a habit of smoothing out any wrinkles on her bed before lying down.   Her eyes are crystal green and she has a lot of calculated movements that can be seen as dignified. She only accepts attention on her terms and her standards are very high. She does not entertain…

Ratan Tata, one of India’s most respected and influential business leaders is best known for his role as the former chairman of Tata Sons – the holding company of the Tata Group. Part of a very prominent family – the Tatas, he was born on December 28th, 1937; his family has played a very prominent role in shaping India’s business and industrial landscape for over a century.  Having studied at the very prestigious Cathedral and John Cannon School in Mumbai, he later went on to earn a degree in architecture from Cornell University which was later followed by a management program…

Writing has been my passion for over 18 years so when I heard about the Writing Retreat that screenwriter, brand consultant and former creative director of Ogilvy – Bhavna Kher was going to conduct I was immediately interested in attending the same.  Not only this but I also wanted to connect with other writers and also sharpen my writing skills as well. It was a perfect opportunity to find inspiration within a focused environment.  Moreover, the 4-day writing retreat, (September 14- September 18th) which was conducted at a luxury boutique resort provided the perfect break from city life, and mindfully focused…