What to read, listen, eat and watch
Get your list of what to read, listen, eat and watch from the proven experts in the field.
Get your list of what to read, listen, eat and watch from the proven experts in the field.Read: Sagarika Chakraborty, author, A Calendar Too Crowded
Anamika by Soorina Arora The story revolves around a young girl and her controversial affair with a much older man, who was a mentor during her growing years. The way the author spins the story through poetic prose, lining the conversations with khayals, nazams and shayari takes my breath away.
An Equal Music by Vikram Seth The way the protagonist, Michael, traces his lover through songs and tunes makes this a memorable read. It’s a book that makes me wonder about people who lost their loved ones when their passion for career took over.
If I Could Tell You by Soumya Bhattacharya This is an exchange of letters between a father and daughter. The tragedies and the smiles in between all seem so real, it is almost as if the reader can close their eyes and remember a similar scene from their life.
Chanakya’s Chant by Ashwin Sanghi I love the plot of how a poor boy from the northern lands grows up to be the greatest political mind. The narration itself is wonderful and the layout, with connects from mythology, makes one wonder if all that we feel was history, is really so.
My Sister’s Keeper by Jodi Picoult A stunning work about family, siblings and relationships. The sad saga of a girl fighting against her mother in court, getting the ruling in her favour, only to become brain-dead in a tragic accident.
Lungs by Florence And The Machine (2009) To me, this indie pop album covers a wide expanse of emotions in a nonchalant and ambiguous manner. Florence has an unmistakable voice and delivers the songs in a laid-back, dreamy fashion. It is chaotic, fresh and technically adept without over-the-top precision. Parts Of The Process by Morcheeba (2003) Here is a band that screams sophistication with rich husky vocals and beautifully constructed melodies, with the ability to transport the listener. This album is a must-have!
Details by Frou Frou (2002) Released in 2002, here’s another instance of British electronic music. It’s mellow, intricate and ultimate feel-good stuff. With breezy free-flowing vocals that seem to dance over the music, this album is the perfect afternoon companion! Sigh No More by Mumford And Sons (2009) Released officially in 2010, this was the band’s debut album. The genre is indie folk. It has a very rustic raw feel that automatically connects with the listener.
21 by Adele (2011) With hard-hitting lyrics that are to the point and great piano bits, this album covers the expanse of emotions that come from losing love. Far-reaching vocals are the essence of this album!
Eat: Dharmesh Karmokar, director, Silver Beach Café
Café Madras (Matunga) It’s the symbol of the true spirit of a Mumbai udipi or a common man’s eatery. The food is fresh and outstanding, the coffee is made South Indian style and it serves the best upma in the world.
Café Mondegar (Colaba) I like to sit there, sip beer and listen to the jukebox while looking at cartoons by Mario Miranda on the walls. The vegetarian salt and pepper goes well with the lager.
Moshe’s (Kemps Corner) The crowd at this place is very articulate and ‘bookwormish’. Moshe’s desserts are yummy and savoury. The sound of the coffee machine, cutlery and silence – I love it all.Olive Bar & Kitchen (Mahalaxmi) If it has to be a romantic dinner, it has to be here. One can see fresh pizzas being made while sipping on wine. The vastness of the racecourse along with the complete European feel make Olive one of my favourite places.
Aer, Four Seasons Hotel (Worli) Where else can one see Mumbai the way it is, than from here. What a view! I particularly love the sunset from here. Occasionally, I like to knock back a single malt and beer here.
Watch: Natasha Suri, actor
Pretty Woman (1990) I love this film. It’s a classic tale of a girl who finds her knight in shining armour. I love the way the film is shot; it looks very realistic. It’s so well made that it makes you want to imagine yourself in her shoes.
Apocalypto (2006) I enjoy thrillers and gory/horror films. I have watched this film over 25 times and can watch it another 25 times. Cinematically, it’s a brilliant movie by Mel Gibson.
Chupke Chupke (1975) This Amitabh Bachchan-Dharmendra starrer has an impeccable sense of situational comedy. It still makes me laugh and how. I love Dharmendra’s comic timing, and the rapport that the actors share in the film.
Arth (1982) This is a rare film starring Smita Patil and Shabana Azmi. I like it for its honesty and pain. The film conveyed unforgettable performances by these legendary actors. It truly and rightfully taps human emotions. It’s almost as if the writer and director could see the future. The songs are beautiful and fresh even today.
Sholay (1975) For being the most entertaining classic film of all time, how can anyone not help but like this film? It’s a cult film and I do not think there is a single soul who has not watched it. The dialogues and the action — all are things I remember like the back of my hand.