No ma�er how far life takes you, a quiet voice whispers: Ghar Aaja Pardesi. With Love Desi, returning to your roots is more than a dream: its a promise.
"CULTURE IS THE HEARTBEAT OF A LAND, FELT IN ITS FESTIVALS, HEARD IN ITS MUSIC, AND SEEN IN THE STORIES ITS PEOPLE TELL."
- Ancient saying
November arrives with a pulse — a month when the world seems to move to its own music. Across continents, ancient rituals and modern revelries meet in a dazzling symphony of sound, light, and spirit. From Thailand’s Yi Peng lanterns, Bali’s Galungan celebrations and Saudi Arabia’s Ancient Kingdoms Festival to Sharjah’s Tanweer Festival, Amsterdam’s glowing canals, and the drum-filled hills of India’s Northeast, November is a celebration of life in all its forms.
In this issue of Hello 6E, we celebrate cultures and traditions, both old and new. In Cambodia’s Siem Reap, history feels alive — in temple walls, in market chatter, and in the quiet grace of Angkor Wat. Vietnam, meanwhile, turns endurance into art with the Ha Long Bay Heritage Marathon, a race along misty blue waters and limestone cliffs that belong as
much to legend as to geography. In China’s Guangzhou, amid skyscrapers and the Pearl River’s reflection, serenity wears fur and eats bamboo — a panda paradise.
We honour the tradition of Indian music with santoor virtuoso Rahul Sharma in My City, My Way, who shares how trekking through the Himalaya’s pine-scented trails keeps his music anchored in stillness. This issue also features an exclusive interview with cricket icon Virat Kohli on his journey as an entrepreneur.
This issue is a passport to November’s many moods: festive, reflective, untamed. From Bali’s spiritual exuberance to Saudi Arabia’s rediscovered kingdoms, the world is alive with moments that invite us to pause, listen, and celebrate.
#IndiabyIndiGo
A masterpiece of Khmer architecture, the Angkor Wat complex in Cambodia captivates with its intricate stonework and monumental scale. It’s a major tourist attraction, with visitors drawn to its serene courtyards, grand galleries, and the timeless beauty of its iconic spires. Cover
From Thailand’s Yi Peng & Loi
to Sharjah’s
a curated guide to some of the most spectacular festivals in November.
Santoor maestro Rahul Sharma talks about his favourite trek, Theog, and how he finds his deepest rhythms
Krathong
Tanweer,
page 68
Exploring the Amsterdam Light Festival, where illuminated installations transform the city’s canals into an art gallery.
page 76
How Microsoft Copilot is paving the way for better AI-powered experiences.
page 111
Virat Kohli shares how cricket helped him shape his business empire.
According
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has upgraded the AirSewa portal, which is accessible through an interactive web portal and a mobile app.
The new version includes the following features:
page 58
From Wangala to Me Gong, how the festive beats of the Garo community enliven Northeast India.
ONBOARD
David Lazar is a travel photographer and musician from Brisbane, Australia, who loves to capture moments of life, beauty, and culture through photography. He is drawn to locations that have a rich cultural background, and he is especially interested in portrait and people photography. Lazar is a contributor to photography, travel, and in-flight magazines, as well as newspapers, books, and journals. He also works as a photography tour leader with Luminous Journeys.
NORTHEAST INDIA with Julie Kagti
Julie Kagti is a distinguished fibre artist, curator and travel expert. Kagti leads Curtain Call Adventures, a travel venture promoting Northeast India’s indigenous arts, crafts and cultural heritage.
AMSTERDAM with Eleanor Fazan
Eleanor Fazan is a London-based writer and journalist who also works with brands to help them tell their stories. The rest of the time you’ll find her exploring the world’s wide-open spaces, teeming cities and wind-swept coastlines.
RAHUL SHARMA'S THEOG as told to Promita Mukherjee
Promita Mukherjee is a seasoned travel and lifestyle editor, who writes columns on travel, food and fashion. When not exploring places, you are likely to find her at a beach or playing with her furbabies Haachi and Mamma.
BALI by Daniel Kordan
Daniel Kordan is an internationally acclaimed landscape and adventure photographer based in Bali, Indonesia. He travels the world capturing remote and breathtaking locations, from Antarctica to Patagonia.
IndiGo
Brand & Content Rashmi Soni
Business Development Shuchi Bhatia
Advertising.Query@goindigo.in
PUBLISHER
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CEO and Managing Director Prakash Johari
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The ‘HELLO 6E’ magazine is published by Maxposure Limited (“Publisher”) for exclusive circulation on commercial flights operated by InterGlobe Aviation Limited (“IndiGo”). All articles, advertisement, content, images and photographs published herein are created by the Publisher and/or contributor at their own discretion and do not necessarily represent the views of IndiGo. All rights, title and interest (including intellectual property rights) in and to the materials shall vest either with the Publisher or any contributor (including IndiGo, in certain cases) of such materials. The Publisher is solely liable for any claims for breach of intellectual property rights by any third party in relation to materials appearing in the HELLO 6E magazine (except such materials and content which have been created by IndiGo, in which case IndiGo or its service providers shall be liable for such claims). IndiGo shall bear no liability for any article, content, advertisement, advertorial, image or photograph appearing in any issue of this magazine including any content which is communal, indecent, gender discriminatory, caste-creed discriminatory, racist, defamatory or libelous to any person, organisation, etc., except in case of content which has been created by IndiGo. All materials are strictly copyrighted and all rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced in whole or part without prior written permission of the copyright holder, Publisher and IndiGo. All articles marked as ‘Talking Point’ and 'Destination Diary' in the magazine are advertorials. customer.experience@goIndigo.in
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*UPI is accepted in the UAE, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Bhutan, Qatar, Mauritius, and France (Galeries Lafayette, Haussmann, Paris & the o cial website of Ei el Tower).
November 11, 2025 NATIONAL EDUCATION DAY
Cultivating minds for tomorrow
First coined in September 2008 by the Government of India, the day marks the birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, the first education minister of independent India. The annual observance provides an opportunity for teachers, students, and communities to celebrate educational achievements, address challenges and propel positive change.
Reasons Why 6 Siem Reap
A thriving travel destination steeped in local customs and traditional Cambodian life, Siem Reap exudes an old-world charm t hrough UNESCO-listed temples and v ibrant markets.
1
Temple Treasures
Siem Reap in northwest Cambodia acts as a gateway to the famous temple ruins of Angkor Archaeological Park, recognised by UNESCO. From Angkor Wat to Bayon and Ta Prohm, temples form the backdrop of this vibrant city.
2
Cultural Canvas
Beyond the incredible ancient temples, Siem Reap offers a deep dive into the history, art, and traditions of the ancient Khmer empire. Explore the Angkor National Museum or enjoy traditional dance performances at the popular Apsara Theatre.
3
Bustling Market life
The markets come alive at sundown. With bars, restaurants, and live music, the Pub Street in Siem Reap becomes a haven for nightlife lovers. You can also explore the Old Market to shop for unique souvenirs or relish a skewer hot off the grill.
4
Flavour Trails
In Siem Reap, every bite is an epicurean delight. Don’t miss out on traditional Cambodian flavours and culinary traditions, including dishes like amok and Cambodian chicken samlá curry when exploring the city.
5
Natural Escape
Take a trip to the serene floating villages of Tonle Sap Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Southeast Asia, inhabited by local fishing folk. Else, immerse in the tranquil beauty of the Angkor Botanical Garden.
6
Holistic Healing
Siem Reap boasts a culture of healing and well-being.Experience a relaxing holiday with rejuvenating massages and herbal therapies by local Khmer healers.
Between Roots & Reverence
D avid Lazar, the acclaimed Australian travel photographer whose award-winning work has appeared in National Geographic and Lonely Planet, recalls his magical visits to Angkor Wat.
Eight visits to the sprawling temple complex of Angkor, Cambodia, might suggest familiarity, but for me, the thrill of the chase remains as potent as ever. Revisiting this immense archaeological park is always exciting and inspiring. The sheer scale and atmosphere of the jungle-consumed ruins provide new angles constantly. However, the most compelling work happens when I incorporate the human element. Whether it’s the daily life around the ruins or the quiet grace of the local Buddhist monks — placing human subjects against the ancient stone creates powerful, timeless images.
Image: David Lazar
Best Time to Visit: Year-round destination but Nov–Mar is ideal.
Nearby is Phnom Kulen, the first Angkor-era capital, (Mahendraparvata), where King Jayavarman II declared himself devaraja in 802 CE.
Among the hidden gems Elaborate carvings scattered around Preah Ang Thom village.
Explore Angkor temples on a bicycle; an immersive and rewarding way to discover the area.
For a photographer, Angkor is less about composition and more about communion. The temple’s symmetry reflects in the still moat like a dream remembered. Yet beyond the postcard perfection, life unfolds quietly.
Ta Prohm, or the “jungle temple”, is incredible. Back when the site was less regulated, exploration was more exhilarating. I could get right up close to the massive strangler fig roots that are tearing the stone apart, yet somehow holding the structure together. The main challenge — and reward — is using the low, filtered light that struggles to penetrate the jungle canopy, highlighting the textures of moss, stone, and roots.
At one of the more secluded temple ruins, I had the delightful opportunity to interact with three novice monks who reside in a nearby monastery, living lives intertwined with these ancient spiritual sites. Their youthful energy and playful curiosity provided a stark contrast to the solemnity of the ruins. We communicated through gestures and smiles, as they laughed and tossed leaves into the air. In my photos, I aim to show the contrast between the young and the old — demonstrating how these sacred places are not just relics of the past but vibrant backdrops to contemporary life and faith.
Image: David Lazar
around the world
Discover the latest in travel, lifestyle, festivals, and tech!
an immersive celebration of art, film, cuisine, interactive workshops, and electrifying live performances, Serendipity Arts Festival returns to Goa between December 12–21, marking its milestone 10th edition – the largest iteration yet. The festival boasts an impressive lineup of over 35 curators across disciplines like visual and performing arts, craft, and culinary arts. The event is open to the public across several heritage venues in Panjim.
chess enthusiasts converge on Goa’s sun-kissed shores as the FIDE World Cup 2025 unfolds. Against its vibrant culture, the world’s top chess players face knockout battles, competing for substantial prize money and one of the three coveted spots in the 2026 Candidates Tournament. The event runs through the month, concluding on November 27.
bask in the tranquil beauty of the Maldives’ Raa Atoll, known for its unspoilt turquoise waters, rich marine life, and underexplored reefs. For an innovative experience beyond the natural splendour, you can head to Joali Maldives to explore curated art collections and installations at what is dubbed the country’s first art-immersive luxury resort.
daring blue cheese naan and the whimsical mini pressurecooker sorbet were the talk of the town when Indian Accent had first opened its doors in New Delhi! Today, about 15 years later, the restaurant, known for redefining modern Indian cuisine, is offering guests a culinary walk down memory lane with a special menu curated by executive chef Shantanu Mehrotra, who has been part of the journey since day one.
Images are for visual representation only
get ready for an extraordinary musical experience where over 400 musicians from 40 nations come together for a recordbreaking symphony of harmony. As part of the One World One Family Mission, the Sai Symphony World Orchestra Concert unites 200 young talents from one of India’s largest school orchestras, international artistes, and two renowned choirs from the Vatican and Germany on one grand stage. The concert is being held on November 23 at Sathya Sai Grama, Karnataka.
immerse yourself in a memorable musical night as Passenger, aka Michael Rosenberg, brings his soulful sounds to India with a three-city tour. Best known for his song ‘Let Her Go’ singer and songwriter debuts in the country with a concert in Delhi-NCR on November 19, followed by Mumbai and Bengaluru on November 21 and 22, respectively.
light up your winter at Kew Gardens in London, as Christmas at Kew returns from November 14, 2025 to January 4, 2026. Wander along a magical trail of larger-than-life illuminations by international artists, spot Father Christmas, and savour festive treats with family and friends.
Images
THE DISCIPLINE SHIFT
POSITIVE DISCIPLINE BEGINS
WHERE CONTROL ENDS AND CONNECTION GROWS
Discipline often carries the weight of rigid routines, yet for Dr. Manimekalai Mohan, Founder of SSVM Group of Institutions, it is an inner force that nurtures resilience and fulfilment. Having grown SSVM from 25 children to over 12,000 learners, her journey reflects discipline as empowerment—a quiet strength shaping individuals and society alike.
In this conversation, she shares refreshing perspectives on how positive discipline shapes character, inspires creativity, and strengthens the world we share.
Definition of discipline in today’s context
Discipline today is not about rigidity but self-alignment. It means creating habits that keep us true to our values,
even when distractions surround us. Discipline gives us clarity in chaos and stability in uncertainty.
Practicing discipline without feeling restricted For students, discipline must be seen as empowerment, not limitation. A child who reads every night, or commits to revising daily learns that small, consistent actions create extraordinary results.
The role of discipline for teachers and parents
Teachers and parents are the twin pillars of a child’s disciplined foundation. Teachers model discipline more powerfully than they preach it—arriving prepared and honouring commitments. Likewise, parents reinforce this at home through routines, patience, and emotional steadiness.
Positive discipline, a key to nurturing creativity, confidence, and character Positive discipline gives creativity its roots. Students who write regularly aren't limiting their imagination — they’re shaping it. Consistency becomes the bridge between raw talent and refined excellence. But beyond skill, positive discipline also builds confidence, patience, and calm — qualities that help us stay grounded when challenges arise.
The role of discipline in shaping an entrepreneur's journey
Entrepreneurship journey demands not just a strategic vision but personal and financial discipline as well. It begins with uncertainty, yet discipline remains its compass— turning ambition into achievement and chaos into clarity. It builds patience, restraint, and balance.
Dr. Manimekalai Mohan
Founder, SSVM Group of Institutions, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
make a statement this season with looks that dazzle, captivate, and celebrate wearable art.
1. Adorn your wrist with Hublot’s MP-15 Takashi Murakami Tourbillon Sapphire, a statement of art, time, and luxury.
2. Glittering flowers come to life with these diamond earrings by House of MBj.
3. You can never go wrong with a statement ring to complement your outfit like this one by Mahesh Notandass.
4. To make an impression, walk in with a work of art – the L.U.C Full Strike by Chopard, a timepiece inspired by samurais.
5. Balance glittering accessories with subtle elegance in Payal Jain’s ‘Paris Mon Amour’ collection.
planning to stack your accessories with brand-new, luxury watches?
Head to Phoenix Palladium, Mumbai's premier luxury destination that boasts an impressive array of more than 100 globally renowned watch brands under one roof, including Panerai, Hublot, Omega, and Grand Seiko, each representing timeless luxury and innovation. Watch out for the exclusive Billionaire Collection, showcasing some of the world’s most coveted limited-edition masterpieces from various iconic brands.
quaint yet bustling, the timeless city of Varanasi enchants with sacred ghats, winding alleys, and the eternal rhythm of the Ganges. Every corner hums with stories, rituals, and vibrant colours. For those seeking a blend of cultural depth and royal elegance, BrijRama Palace offers an unforgettable stay along the river’s serene embrace.
step into a relaxing stay in Germany, surrounded by the leafy serenity of Lichtentaler Allee and the quaint charm of Baden-Baden, located at the foot of the Black Forest. Explore the wilderness, visit the thermal springs in the area and unwind at Brenners Park – Hotel & Spa, where wellness takes centre stage.
Images
Original GI 232 Certified Patan Patola Sarees, Dupattas, Lehangas, Single Ikat Patola, Semi Patan Patola, Accessories, Menswear, Bandhani & Kalamkari.
the 7th edition of the prestigious Dehradun Literature Festival is returning to the serene Himalayan foothills, bringing together authors, poets, readers, critics, journalists, artists, and cultural icons from around the world. Each year, the festival celebrates words and creates a space for idea exchanges and insightful conversations. The event is taking place from November 14 to 16 at Dehradun’s Doon International School.
witness the vibrant Chemrey Wangchok Festival at Ladakh’s 15th-century Chemrey Monastery, about an hour from Leh. Generally celebrated in November, it features Drukpa monks in meditation and performing the sacred masked Cham dance, transforming the serene Himalayan setting into a spectacle of devotion, colour, and timeless Buddhist tradition.
zootopia 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the Oscar-winning 2016 animated film, is introducing fans to brand new characters and an all-new original song, “Zoo,” sung by Shakira, who returns as the voice of Zootopia’s biggest pop star, Gazelle. The second installment hits the theatres on November 26.
MOMENT
I ndiGo to HANOI
The destination is connected from Kolkata and will have flights from Delhi soon.* www.goIndiGo.in
A TRIBUTE TO HALONG HERITAGE
If you are a runner, this is the perfect time to be in Ha Long, Vietnam. Immerse yourself in its culture, heritage, and natural beauty at the Halong Bay Heritage Marathon. Set against the emerald waters and thousands of rugged islands of this UNESCO-recognised World Heritage Site, runners pass spectacular centuries-old sites along the way, making it one of Southeast Asia’s most scenic international races. Attend it on November 23, 2025.
*Convenient connections to select cities across network are available.
MIND
PAGE TURNER
THE COURT OF THE DEAD
by Mark Oshiro and Rick Riordan
Acclaimed authors Riordan and Oshiro collaborate in this book to bring a thrilling read to the audience, in which two prominent characters from the world of Percy Jackson and the Olympians — Nico di Angelo and Hazel Levesque — team up to protect monsters.
THE TREE WITHIN
by Indranil Chakravarty
In this book, the author dives deep into Nobel Laureate, poet and diplomat Octavio Paz’s profound relationship with India, which is known to have transformed him as a person. This luminous portrait showcases the deep intellectual and emotional connection Paz shared with the country during his tenure as Mexico’s ambassador to India in the 1960s.
I AM GIORGIA
by Giorgia Meloni
Meloni, Italy’s first woman Prime Minister, narrates her journey through this deeply personal memoir. From recounting her early life struggles to reflecting on her passion for politics, this book showcases her journey of conviction, resilience and identity. Beyond politics, she offers an insight into her life as a mother, a partner and a person of deep faith and national pride.
NAMMA BANGALORE 2.0
by Shoba Narayan
In this delightful sequel to her bestselling Namma Bangalore, Narayan takes readers on a journey to the city in ways like never before. From telling its heritage stories to diving into the hidden food spots and tapping into unforgettable travel tales, she captures the evolving soul of the cosmopolitan city with a touch of warmth and humour.
THE PANDA LIFE
Beyond the majestic skyline, Guangzhou in China introduces travellers to a heartwarming experience where they can watch giant, adorable pandas munch on bamboo or nap in their lush enclosure at Chimelong Safari Park. One of the world’s biggest safari parks, it is in fact home to one of the largest panda populations in captivity. Skyscrapers and the mighty Pearl River are two other defining elements of the city.
I ndiGo to GUANGZHOU
The destination is connected from Kolkata and will have flights from Delhi soon.* www.goIndiGo.in
ARTISTIC LEGACY
Liminal Line, a retrospective of Ashok Bhowmick, one of the most senior Indian artists specialising in cross-hatching, comes to Dhoomimal Gallery, New Delhi. It marks the culmination of 50 years of his art career. The exhibition features an expansive body of Bhowmick’s works, from early black-andwhite drawings of the 1970s to his large-format canvases and recent forays into printmaking and sculpture. The exhibition is on display until November 5.
Image: Ashok Bhowmick, 2021
Untitled
MOUNTAINS & MUSIC
S antoor maestro Rahul Sharma finds harmony not just in music but in trekking, where mountains and silence inspire his soul.
Words Promita Mukherjee
Santoor maestro Rahul Sharma’s music breathes like mountain air - pure, elevating, and timeless. He moves effortlessly between ragas and rhythms, bridging the sacred and the contemporary. His collaborations speak of global resonance: an album with Grammy winner Kenny G that reached the US Billboard Charts, a historical performance for world leaders at the World Economic Forum, and compositions voiced by legends like Amitabh Bachchan and the late Lata Mangeshkar. With over 75 albums and nearly three decades of musical exploration, he still remains a seeker.
Son of the late Padma Bhushan Shivkumar Sharma, who introduced the santoor to the world stage, Rahul Sharma carries forward a luminous legacy, yet his music bears an unmistakable and experimental individuality. He recently led the curtain raiser for Mumbai’s Kala Ghoda Arts Festival
with 'Santoor Serenity, Healing Harmonies', a charity fusion concert, at NCPA’s Jamshed Bhabha Theatre. His latest work, Tree of Tranquility, created with Grammy-winner 'Deep Forest', is an ode to nature. It is a living serenade to nature with santoor melodies flowing through lush electronic landscapes, like alpine streams glinting beneath snow-capped silence.
But if santoor is the maestro's first love, trekking is his second. Beyond the world of music, Sharma finds his deepest rhythm in the mountains. Of Kashmiri heritage, he believes that trekking through pristine mountains is like touching a fragment of divinity. “Being one with nature is always an inspiring moment,” he reflects.
The sound of the santoor, he says, mirrors cascading waterfalls and the serenity of forests. For him, mountains and woods are not just backdrops but sanctuaries; places where music feels alive and transcendent. “When practising for hours, one enters a meditative state, much like being lost in nature. Music has therapeutic and healing powers when performed in the right manner and mood,” he adds.
Some of Sharma’s most evocative compositions have sprung directly from his journeys. “I did an album titled 'Kashmir – Nature’s Symphony', which brought together Kashmiri folk and fusion sounds inspired by places like Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Chashma Shahi, and Dal Lake, where I also shot the iconic Wah Taj ad,” he recalls.
The Pir Panjal Lakes trek! The route passes through alpine lakes and grasslands, which makes it breathtaking,” he says. The Pin Valley National Park in Himachal Pradesh and the Carpathian Mountains in Romania and Transylvania are also on the list.
Among his cherished adventures is a trek in Theog, Himachal Pradesh, with his wife, Barkha, and their then 10-year-old son Abhinav. “It was Abhinav’s first hike, and his energy led the way through pine and deodar forests. There wasn’t a soul around, only birdsong and the whispering wind. It was a perfect mountaintop moment of togetherness,” he says.
First Go
“I was born in Mumbai but my parents belong to Jammu and Kashmir and I have spent all my childhood holidays in Sonamarg and Pahalgam, among other places. So, I guess it is only natural to long for the mountains,” he says. He recollects going on a few hikes as a 10-year-old kid with a group, in various parts of Maharashtra like Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kanheri Caves, and the hillocks in Khandala in the monsoons, which strengthened his love for the hills further.
Family Adventure Trek Fav
Prep time
“Honestly, the excitement to be up in the mountains is fuel enough for me,” says Sharma. However, he strongly advises one to stay calm, have a certain level of physical fitness, and plan properly about the routes.
“Recently, we trekked to the Top of Tyrol in Austria, at a height of 3,210 m,” he says.“From there, you get a breathtaking view of the Stubai Glacier and the Dolomites. It was a family trip with Barkha and Abhinav — we took the cable car partway and hiked the rest. That remains a truly beautiful memory,” he adds.
Musician
A Thousand MILES OF MUSIC, LIGHTS, AND COLOURS
A s winter whispers and festive energy sparks, cultures burst into life, offering unforgettable sights, sounds, flavours, and experiences worldwide. Here’s a curated guide to some of the most spectacular festivals.
Words Manjulika Pramod
LOI KRATHONG & YI PENG
LANTERN FESTIVAL
Chiang Mai and Bangkok, Thailand
I ndiGo to BANGKOK
Explore direct flights to Bangkok, Phuket, and Krabi * www.goIndiGo.in
While you're there
Explore Bangkok's Grand Palace and markets and also Wat Arun, the latter for spectacular Loi Krathong celebrations.
In Chiang Mai, visit ancient wats (temples), Doi Suthep, and night bazaars.
Tip: Book a boat for the best view of floating krathongs, specially along Chao Phraya River in Bangkok.
Date
November 5-6
Location Bangkok
Chiang Mai Sukhothai Lampang
Even if you’ve seen hundreds of photographs, nothing prepares you for the sight of innumerable glowing paper lanterns drifting into the night sky, carrying wishes and messages that vanish among the stars. This is the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, celebrated in Northern Thailand, with Chiang Mai drawing the largest crowds. Pair it with Loi Krathong, when thousands of banana-leaf floats (krathongs) laden with flowers, incense, and a flickering candle glide down rivers, and you have a spectacle that’s truly unforgettable. Sometimes, the two festivals overlap, letting you watch lanterns rise and krathongs drift on the same night.
In Chiang Mai, the magic happens along the Ping River, Tha Phae Gate, and Nawarat Bridge. Large-scale lantern releasing events are held at Mae Jo University while cultural performances light up the CAD Yipeng Khomloy Sky Lantern Festival. Grab a riverside seat, wander through night markets, taste sticky rice desserts, join a lantern-making workshop, or float your own krathong to fully immerse yourself.
I ndiGo to SHARJAH Explore direct flights to Sharjah, Dubai, Ras-al-Khaimah, Abu Dhabi & Fujairah. * www.goIndiGo.in
While you're there
Try desert glamping under starlit skies and Mleiha Archaeological Centre tours.
Tip: Participate in a guided desert meditation for a serene contrast to music performances.
Date November 21-23
Location Mleiha Desert
Highlights Performances by A.R. Rahman, Anoushka Shankar, desert art installations, wellness sessions.
TANWEER FESTIVAL
Sharjah, UAE
Tanweer Festival blends music, art, heritage, and mindfulness in Sharjah’s Mleiha desert. Don't miss the unique immersive zones like Dome for workshops, Tree of Life for intimate performances, and Nourish, a culinary space with plantbased and desert-inspired cuisine. The festival is zero singleuse plastic, emphasising sustainability while integrating cultural heritage with desert exploration. At Mleiha, a UNESCOnominated World Heritage Site, don't miss the Bronze Age tombs, sandboarding, stargazing, and desert safari.
connections to select cities across network are available.
Dates
Galungan - November 19 & Kuningan - November 29
Location Bali
Highlights Villages come alive with Ngelawang Barong parades, temple rituals, traditional dances, and ceremonies.
I ndiGo to BALI
Fly to Bali and Jakarta from Bengaluru, Delhi and Mumbai.* www.goIndiGo.in
GALUNGAN & KUNINGAN FESTIVALS Bali, Indonesia
Galungan and Kuningan transform Bali into a vibrant cultural tapestry. Homes and streets are adorned with penjor - bamboo poles decorated with offerings, flowers, and fruits - creating a festive landscape of colour and artistry. Enjoy traditional dances, gamelan music, and participate in cultural workshops to experience vibrant Balinese heritage.
While you're there
Explore the streets of Ubud and the villages around Denpasar with elaborately decorated penjor.
Tip: Catch early morning ceremonies for the most authentic cultural experience.
*Convenient connections to select cities across network are available.
ANCIENT KINGDOMS FESTIVAL
AlUla, Saudi Arabia
Set in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hegra, the Ancient Kingdoms Festival brings history to life. Explore archaeological sites by day and enjoy cultural performances by night. Drone light shows and interactive installations highlight the landscape’s natural beauty while showcasing Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage.
*Convenient connections to select cities across network are available.
I ndiGo to JEDDAH
You can also fly to Dammam, Madinah, & Riyadh * www.goIndiGo.in
While you're there
Do not miss the Hegra Geology Hike and Candlelit Concerts.
Tip: Book guided archaeological tours early, as slots are limited.
Date November 20December 6
Location Hegra Highlights The immersive Hegra After Dark and classical music performances.
Image: The Royal Commission for AlUla
Fly to the destination from Kolkata www.goIndiGo.in
WATER FESTIVAL
Siem Reap, Cambodia
In November, Siem Reap, the gateway to the magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex, celebrates Bon Om Touk, the three-day Water Festival observing the end of the monsoon season. During this time, the city comes alive with colourful processions along the riverbanks, community offerings to the gods, local markets brimming with seasonal treats, and traditional performances celebrating the country's heritage.
While you're there
Just a tuk-tuk ride away from Siem Reap is the Angkor Wat complex. Spread over more than 400 sq km, the temple complex includes over 70 shrines, including Bayon, famed for its serene carved faces, and Ta Prohm, featured in the film Lara Croft: Tomb Raider. Visit at dawn for a sunrise experience.
Date
November 4-6
Location Along the Siem Reap River.
Highlights Dragon boat races, lanterns, fireworks, music and dance.
PS: Confirm all festival dates on official sites before visiting.
Words Julie Kagti
Wangala festivities by the Garo tribe in Meghalaya are elevated by vibrant dance and music performances.
Image: Sujan Sarkar
When the winds of November sweep through the hills of Meghalaya and Assam, the air begins to hum. It is not just the rustle of ripening fields or the whisper of bamboo groves; it is the call of the drum. The Garo community in Meghalaya comes alive with the festive beats of Wangala and Me Gong, while across the border near Assam’s Nameri National Park, they join the Bodo people to celebrate Dwisa Grongani Together, these three festivals form a cultural trilogy honouring the harvest, revering the forest, and renewing the bonds of community, painting a vivid tapestry of tradition, nature, and shared joy.
Wangala, the 100 Drums Festival, is more than a celebration. It’s a living symphony of sound, movement, and tradition. The first beat lands like thunder. Then another. Soon, the rhythm expands until the entire field seems to pulse with life. Dozens of drummers move in unison, their shoulders glistening under the sun, each strike carrying a memory older than history. Around them, dancers swirl in bright beads and feathers. Their steps follow the arc of the seasons: sowing, reaping, and resting.
Wangala is a thanksgiving to Saljong, the Sun god of fertility, for a good harvest. But it is also a declaration of joy. The drumbeats gather
The Garo Hills in Meghalaya are dotted with rivers and lush forests, including the Nokrek Biosphere Reserve, which is home to a rare variety of orange and unique flora and fauna.
Know the dates
everyone into a single rhythm, binding the village in shared pride.
Standing there, among the spectators, one can feel the boundaries between performance and prayer dissolve. Wangala is not an act to be watched; it is a pulse to be felt. It’s the sound of gratitude rendered visible.
A few days later, and a few valleys away, the celebrations take a quieter turn. Near the edge of Nameri National Park, where mist curls through the trees, the festival of Dwisa Grongani begins.
If Wangala is thunder, Dwisa Grongani, a festival by the Uttar Rongagora community, is birdsong. Here, the drum yields space to storytelling, and the forest itself becomes a stage. Women display handwoven cloth dyed with roots and bark. Men craft tools and demonstrate age-old techniques of basket weaving. The rhythm of life is slower, measured, and reverent.
Mornings open with walks through the forest, guided by elders who point out medicinal plants and explain how each species fits into a cycle of sustenance. Afternoons are for song and shared meals under open canopies. As night falls, fires
Image: Dwisa Grongani Festival Committee
This year, Wangala is set to be celebrated on November 7.
Dwisa Grongani is being held on November 7 and 9.
Me Gong Festival is observed on November 29 and 30.
Kholey Dai Harvest Festival is happening from December 19 to 21.
At the Dwisa Grongani celebrations, local women can be seen sporting vibrant handwoven textiles.
An elephant mother with her calf at Nameri National Park.
flicker and stories rise - tales of ancestral spirits, of hunters turned healers, of trees that guard memory.
Dwisa Grongani is a lesson in coexistence. The Garo do not see the forest as a backdrop to their lives, but as an extension of their own being. Every leaf and stream holds meaning. To join them these days is to learn that conservation here is not a policy but a form of love, lived quietly and daily.
By the end of the month, the festivities move west, where Me Gong gathers the community for a finale both intimate and exuberant. The fields have long been cleared, but the air is still ripe with stories. Families travel from distant villages. Laughter spills into the streets. Me Gong is the season’s soft landing, a time for reunions, for repairing ties, and for reminding one another that kinship is the truest harvest.
How to Reach
Guwahati is the closest airport. For Wangala and Me Gong festivals, travel to Tura, Meghalaya, by road, which takes about five to seven hours. To attend Dwisa Grongani, the road trip will take about four hours from Guwahati to reach the venue at Uttar Rongagora Garo Gaon, in Assam.
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The young perform reimagined versions of folk songs, their guitars blending with bamboo flutes. Elders share tales that bridge myth and memory, ensuring that old wisdom finds new ears. Every household opens its doors, and guests are fed until they can eat no more. Food, after all, is language here, each dish carrying a message of abundance and care.
There are friendly contests, craft fairs, and blessings for the year ahead. But underneath the festivity lies something quieter: the reaffirmation of belonging.
This trilogy is a passage through layers of meaning. It is easy to be drawn to the spectacle, the drums, the dances, and the colours, but the real journey lies in listening to the rhythm beneath the noise, to the living forest, and to the stories that rise and fall like the hills themselves.
To visit these festivals is to witness culture not as display but as dialogue. The Garo are generous hosts, but they ask for presence, not performance. Cameras should stay low, gestures of respect should precede conversation, and every shared meal should be accepted as a gift.
Those who walk softly will find much to learn. They will see how song becomes memory, how weaving records ancestry, and how dance translates gratitude. They will realise that these festivals are not frozen traditions but living rituals that adapt even as they endure.
When November ends, the hills fall quiet again. The drums are packed away, while the fires burn low. But something lingersthe echo of rhythm, the warmth of shared food, and the feeling of having witnessed a community in full voice.
Wari Chora in South Garo Hills hides a canyon where crystal waters, lush forests, and thrilling treks meet adventure.
Image: Umesh Lavu Pednekar
Life's True LuxuryAn Unhurried Life
Design rooted in community, well-being, and Mother Earth is slow living made real by Organo Eco Habitats. Modern yet sustainable. We call it Samavriddhiprosperity for all.
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LAND AND LIFE ECHOES OF
High in the Eastern Himalayas, the quiet village of Parengtar in Kalimpong, West Bengal, awakens each winter to the Kholey Dai Festival, a soulful celebration where harvest meets harmony. During the festival, fields and forests echo with music, laughter, and the earthy pulse of community life.
Envisioned and hosted by local residents, Kholey Dai is more than a festival; it’s a living testament to self-reliance and sustainability. The event unfolds across three immersive days of folk performances, craft workshops, traditional cuisine, and cultural exchanges, inviting visitors to slow down and rediscover the simple pleasures of mindful living.
Rooted in ancestral farming traditions yet resonant with modern eco-conscious values, this zero-waste celebration offers a glimpse into a way of life where people, culture, and nature coexist in balance. Kholey Dai isn’t just a harvest festival; it’s a movement, nurturing both the land and the spirit, reminding us that true abundance grows from community and care. This year, it's being held from December 19 to 21.
Located on the Indo-Bhutan border, Parengtar gets its name from the unique landscape - ‘Paren’ meaning bamboo and ‘Tar’ meaning flat land, which lies among steep ridges and mountains.
With inputs from Shikha Malik
During this season, the delicate hues of autumnal cherry blossom flowers envelop the region in and around Shillong, Meghalaya, creating a breathtaking panorama. Nature’s enchanting beauty coincides with the popular Cherry Blossom Festival, being held on November 14 and 15 in the state capital.
Image: Meghalaya Tourism
HERE COMES THE LIGHT
A s winter cloaks Amsterdam in early dusk, a dazzling light festival transforms its canals into a glowing reflection on memory and legacy.
Words Eleanor Fazan
As the days shorten and Amsterdam's gables vanish into dusk, the city begins to glow. Because from late November to mid-January, the Dutch capital hosts its festival of light, when more than 20 artworks transform the canals into an illuminated gallery of floating, flickering dreams.
This year’s theme, “Legacy”, asks what we leave behind, what stories we take with us, and how we want to be remembered: as individuals, as cities, and as a planet. It’s a fitting question for a place shaped by water and time. Amsterdam also celebrates its 750th birthday this year. While details of individual installations are still under wraps, the festival, now in its 14th year, has grown into one of Europe’s most magical winter events. Each edition has its own rhythm and texture, but this year's theme feels particularly poignant. Artists explore ideas of sustainability, history, and cultural inheritance, from pieces that respond to the city’s colonial past to those imagining the world we’ll pass on to future generations.
Explore the route – a roughly 6.5 km stretch through the heart of the city –on foot, by bike, or from the water on a festival boat tour. Each perspective reveals something different. Viewed from a canal boat, wrapped in a blanket with a mug of glühwein, the reflections seem infinite, each light doubled and trembled by the water. On foot, you notice smaller moments: a
THIS YEAR’S THEME, “LEGACY”, ASKS WHAT WE LEAVE BEHIND, WHAT STORIES WE TAKE WITH US, AND HOW WE WANT TO BE REMEMBERED: AS INDIVIDUALS, AS A CITY, AND AS A PLANET.
woman cycling home beneath a halo of LEDs, children whispering on a bridge, steam rising from coffee cups outside candlelit cafés.
While the city is free to wander, the Amsterdam Light Festival is in fact a foundation, and 75 per cent of its budget comes from ticket sales and donations. They offer canal cruises (starting at €29.75), bike tours (€33), and even culinary walking tours. But if you prefer to go alone, you can download the festival app. The lights come on at 5 pm, but the hour after dusk is the most beautiful, when the last traces of daylight melt into indigo and the reflections sharpen. Begin with a beer and bitterballen at De Ysbreeker, or a glass of wine at Café de Jaren by the Amstel River before you set off.
What makes the festival so distinctively Amsterdam is its openness. There’s a
sense of shared discovery that feels almost communal. Locals plan evening walks around the installations, cyclists slow down, and strangers gather on bridges just to watch the play of light on water. For a city often seen through the lens of summer tourism, the festival offers something more intimate. A glimpse of local life in winter, when Amsterdam belongs to itself again. If you’re staying the weekend, base yourself on the eastern canals or in De Plantage, close enough to join the route but far from the tourist churn. The Pulitzer Amsterdam, with its warren of canal houses, or the Hoxton, with its warm design and buzzing bar, make excellent bases.
By mid-January, the lights are packed away and the canals return to their regular buzz. But for a few weeks, Amsterdam turns up its rhythm. A city suspended between past and future, its reflections whispering softly: this is our legacy.
How to do it
The Amsterdam Light Festival runs from November 27, 2025, to January 18, 2026. The festival is bookable via amsterdamlightfestival.com. Lights are on daily from about 4:30-5 pm to up to 11 p.m on certain days. Entry is free.
I ndiGo to AMSTERDAM
The destination is connected from Mumbai & there are convenient connections to select cities across network. www.goIndiGo.in
BUILDING VALUE & CULTURE AT DAVAINDIA
At DavaIndia, culture drives value, care, and everyday meaningful action.
At DavaIndia, culture isn’t a poster—it’s how we show up for people. Our north star is clear: make quality healthcare accessible, affordable, and humane. Culture is the engine that gets us there daily: the choices we make, the pace we move, and the care we extend when no one’s watching.
We start with a few non-negotiables. Bias to action: we ship small, learn fast, and improve faster—because patients shouldn’t wait for perfection. Kind candor: we speak the truth with care, early and clearly, so problems shrink and trust grows. Ownership: every role is a promise; from storefront to HQ, we own outcomes end-to-end.
Care beyond the counter—our Diwali pledge. This Diwali, we chose to be a voice for the voiceless. Across our network of over 1000+ COCO stores, we opened our doors as calm, safe spaces for stray animals distressed by fireworks. Teams set out water bowls and kept entrances
welcoming and quiet. We saw dogs and cats step in from the chaos, and in places like Vadodara, Muradnagar, Raipur, Modinagar and Hooghly, even cows found a moment of rest and relief. The message was simple: light and kindness belong to every living being. What mattered most wasn’t the gesture, but how quickly our people rallied—one idea, thousands of consistent, compassionate acts.
Systems make it real. Our playbooks, tools, and daily habits all point to the same star—making care easy to do and hard to ignore. We watch the basics: speed, clarity, and trust. When the signal drifts, we learn, adjust, and get back on track. Simple systems, steady signals, better care.
Our closing belief: culture is not what we say; it’s what we reward at scale. When action is swift, candor is kind, and ownership is real, value compounds. That’s how DavaIndia turns lights on—in our stores, in our teams, and in the homes we serve.
"Davaindia is a pioneering force in the healthcare industry, reshaping the landscape by making high-quality generic medicines affordable and accessible to all. Our vision is to create a healthier and more equitable future for everyone we serve."
– Dr. Sujit Paul, Group CEO, Zota Healthcare Limited
HELLO PC! YOUR WORKSTATION JUST GOT A VOICE
A s Microsoft bids farewell to Windows 10 and approaches the 40-year milestone of its flagship operating system, it is setting its sights firmly on the future. The company is transforming every Windows 11 PC into an AI-powered experience, says Chris Velazco of
Image: An artist's impression
For years, you’ve typed and clicked on your computer. Pretty soon, you might spend more of your time talking to it.
In end-October, Microsoft highlighted plans to make its Copilot AI assistant a more capable and helpful way to interact with our computers. For one, the company has started rolling out a feature for all Windows 11 PCs that lets you talk to your PC the way you would with a smart speaker: by uttering a wake-wordin this case, “Hey, Copilot” - and making a request out loud.
(Don’t worry, it’s not on by default - you specifically have to flip the switch inside the Copilot app.)
That doesn’t mean your keyboard and mouse’s days are numbered, mind you. Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft’s consumer chief marketing officer, said voice will be a “profound” addition to the ways you already interact with computers, not a full-blown replacement.
“You’re now easily able to talk to [Copilot] and get what you want,” he said.
Microsoft’s choice to push to make Copilot more accessible isn’t just about making it easier to get answers from a chatbot. By fleshing out Copilot’s ability to see what’s on your screen, the company says you’ll be able to use its AI assistant to perform certain tasks more easily.
One example the company showed off was the ability to ask Copilot how to enable a specific feature in Spotify’s Windows app. After chewing on the spoken request for a moment, Copilot cheerfully chimed in by highlighting the specific setting on-screen that a user could toggle.
Yes, that means you may officially be relieved of tech support duty the next time you visit your parents over the holidays.
Other examples showed users asking Copilot to identify specific products that appeared in videos on-screen and asking for advice on how best to proceed inside video games being played.
These features offer a fascinating glimpse at a new mode of computing, where expertise feels less necessary to accomplish specific tasks. The catch? Not all of them are ready for the limelight yet; Microsoft says it plans to launch more sophisticated, “agentic” interactions - like the ability to ask Copilot to organise different kinds of files on your computer or pull information from a handful of PDF files - as experiments for early-access test users in the coming months.
This isn’t the first time Microsoft has experimented with voice assistants built into its Windows operating systems. Early on in the lifespan of Windows 10, the company introduced its Cortana virtual assistant, named for the AI sidekick from the popular Halo series of video games.
It was useful enough for scheduling reminders and launching apps, but the feature never really took off, prompting the company to push it into the background a few years later. Don’t expect the same to happen this time. Microsoft’s deep investment in its AI tools means it’s much more likely to keep this new voice assistant around for the long hauleven if you don’t chat with it much to start.
Historical Context
Microsoft has experimented with voice integration for decades, from introducing Cortana on Windows 10 PCs a decade ago to incorporating various accessibilityfocussed voice features across Windows over the past 40 years. Despite these efforts, widespread adoption remained limited. Today, the company believes that AI can finally drive a meaningful shift in behaviour, making interacting with a PC through voice feel natural rather than unusual. “Doctors are taking transcriptions while they’re performing examinations, people use it for searching, and our work with the accessibility community has taught us a lot about how to make voice access and voice typing really valuable,” says Mehdi, highlighting the practical applications and realworld value of voice technology in everyday tasks.
Copilot Vision Features
Copilot Vision is now rolling out worldwide in all markets where Copilot is available. It allows you to:
• Get help using apps
• Troubleshoot PC problems
• Learn new tasks
• Receive step-by-step guidance in games
• Unlike the Recall feature that automatically takes a snapshot of your PC, Copilot Vision is an opt-in feature, streaming what you see on your screen like a Teams call.
Voice and Vision Integration
Microsoft is leaning on Copilot’s Voice and Vision capabilities to make this a reality, thanks to a new “Hey, Copilot!” wake word rolling out on Windows 11 Pcs. “In our minds, voice will now become the third input mechanism to use with your PC,” says Mehdi, adding, “It doesn’t replace the keyboard and mouse necessarily, but it’s an added thing and it will be pretty profound and a new way to do it.”
ADVANCED FUE HAIR TRANSPLANT A GAME CHANGER
Dr. Shalini Malhotra, MBBS, DNB Dermatology (Safdarjung Hospital), ABHRS, is one of the few surgeons in India who performs the Advanced FUE (Follicular Unit Excision) technique of Hair Transplant. It's a refined solution for hair loss, performed with patented implanters for maximum density, faster recovery, and 100% natural results.
Hair transplantation is a simple procedure done under local anesthesia, involving the removal of hair follicles from the scalp's back (donor site), and transplanting them to a balding (recipient site). It's completely safe if performed by a qualified doctor in a sterilised OT setup.
Who's qualified to do this procedure?
A hair transplant doctor should have MD or DNB in Dermatology or Plastic Surgery. The American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery certification can also be of value. for more info visit www.abhrs.org
At my clinic, I perform complete implantation of grafts. Technicians are not allowed to operate on patients in my OT.
What technique do you use?
I perform the minimally invasive Advanced FUE Technique. This procedure doesn’t require shaving your head and routine activities can be resumed from the next day of surgery.
How long does the procedure take? Is it painful?
The hair transplant procedure takes 5 to 6 hours. Local anaesthesia is given so the patient doesn't feel any pain. Full results can be expected within 9 to 12 months.
What’s unique about your procedure? Since I perform the surgery and take full responsibility, patient is in safest hands. The advanced FUE procedure is the latest technique in the field of hair transplant wherein unshaven transplants are possible. Our state-of-the-art facility ensures all sterilisation protocols are strictly followed.
THE BUSINESS
OF CULTURE
H ow cultural tourism is helping cities fund conservation.
Words Dr. Srinath Sridharan
There is a truth about travel that feels obvious when you step into a crowded market or an old temple. People travel not only for landscapes or adventure but to touch a living past. That impulse has turned culture and cultural celebrations into big business. The global heritage tourism alone was estimated at roughly $600 billion in 2024, making culture one of the most valuable pillars of the global travel economy.
82% of Indians are planning trips in 2025 based on the cultural offerings of a region.
76% of Indians have adjusted their travel plans around major festivals in the country.
93% of travellers are exploring lesser-known cultural hubs to experience authentic traditions.
80% (approximately) of the annual income of Pushkar’s residents is generated by cattle fair, according to a Govt. of Rajasthan report. This year's fair runs until November 5.
Culture as commerce
Cultural tourism is not nostalgia. It is an experience economy where museums, festivals, historic districts, and religious sites sell meaning and memory. The UNESCO notes that cultural tourism accounts for close to 40 per cent of global tourism revenues. That proportion explains why nations protect, package, and promote traditions as carefully as any export.
Where the money comes from
The flows are both global and local. In China, this year’s Golden Week showed how cultural and festival travel drives massive spending, generating hundreds of billions of yuan in economic activity. In India, pilgrimage hubs such as Tirupati, Mathura, Vrindavan, and Varanasi draw tens of millions of visitors annually,
proving that religious and cultural journeys underwrite local economies far beyond ticket sales. From Kyoto’s heritage streets to Mexico’s Day of the Dead celebrations, tourists are chasing stories that feel authentic and rooted.
Monetising culture
Policymakers have learnt to treat culture like infrastructure. Many cities levy tourist taxes and reinvest revenue into conservation and services. In Spain, Barcelona's levies, for example, provide the city with tens of millions of euros a year to manage crowds and maintain heritage precincts. Bhutan takes a different route with its “high value, low impact” model, charging a sustainable development fee and a minimum package rate that protects traditions while funding community welfare.
Cultural and festival tourism can pay for the care of monuments, the training of artisans, and the survival of languages. It can also crowd out daily life if mismanaged. The challenge is to turn cultural curiosity into sustainable income that keeps culture alive rather than turning it into a museum piece.
Dr. Srinath Sridharan is the author of the book, Family and Dhanda and Life’s 101 Greatest Secrets for a Richer, Happier You, published by Rupa Publications.
Skyscanner Cultural Tourism Report
TIMES HIGHER EDUCATION WORLD UNIVERSITY RANKINGS 2026: KIIT PLACED 5TH IN INDIA, 501 GLOBALLY
KIIT-DU has made a big impact in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026, securing the 5th position among all the universities in India. Significantly, KIIT is also the only institute from Odisha to feature in the national top 10 list — a matter of immense pride for the state and a reflection of its growing academic excellence.
Globally, KIIT has been placed in the 501–600 band among 2,191 universities and 5th nationally among 128 Indian institutions, marking a notable rise from its previous year’s position in the 601–800 band. This upward movement highlights the university’s sustained progress in global competitiveness and its emergence as one of India’s most dynamic and globally visible institutions. Indian Institute of Science (IISc) topped among Indian Universities, while KIIT is the 5th best University in India.
This year, KIIT has been ranked 259th in the world in the 'Academic Excellence' parameter of the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. Times Higher Education provides rankings based on five parameters. Remarkably, KIIT University has performed best in India in 'Industry Integration', 'International Outlook’ and 'Social Commitment (SDGs)' parameters.
Expressing happiness over this achievement, Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT and KISS, said, “Every state aspires to have a university ranked among the top 500 globally. I am happy that KIIT, only 28 years since its inception and 22 years as a Deemed to be University, has been placed among the world’s top premier universities in the 501 cohort. This accomplishment is a source of pride for Odisha specifically and for India as a whole.”
WHERE EVERY DESIGN TELLS A STORY THE SMI WAY OF LEARNING
"Design is a conversation with the situation," said Donald Schön, the American philosopher and professor in urban planning at MIT. He meant that design is not just a technical activity but also a reflective one that requires designers to constantly evaluate their actions, adjust their approaches, and learn from their experiences. Thirty years ago, such a conversation began as an art and design school called Srishti. Over the last three decades, Srishti, now a constituent unit of the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), has established itself as one of the top art and design institutes of India and a well-known institution across the world. Today, it is called Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design and Technology (SMI).
The Storytelling Classroom
At its core, SMI has always believed that learning through storytelling is at the heart of design education, encouraging students to interpret the world around them and to see every project, problem, and design brief as a story waiting to be understood and rewritten. Each learning experience at the institute becomes a lived story, unfolding across environments and communities. Located on the 80-acre sustainable MAHE Bengaluru campus in Yelahanka, north Bengaluru, there is ample space for classrooms and several well-equipped labs, workshops, and studios that encourage hands-on
learning and experimentation. Here, students learn to see design not as a set of technical skills, but as a way of engaging with the world.
Design as a Reflective Practice
Over the last decade, the horizons for design have expanded. It is no longer limited to graphic, product, UI-UX, or fashion design. SMI, however, expanded its horizons decades ago and chartered new paths of truly transdisciplinary art and design education. Today, it offers eleven undergraduate, ten postgraduate, and two postgraduate diploma courses, along with a unique transdisciplinary, practice-based doctoral pathways. This broad canvas allows for constant dialogue between art, design, and technology.
Design as a
Social Practice
“Design needs to be transformed from an expert-driven process focused on objects and services within a takenfor-granted social and economic order, towards design practices that are participatory, socially oriented, situated, and open-ended,” says Arturo Escobar, professor emeritus of anthropology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. SMI’s pedagogy reflects this very transformation, to which storytelling is central. It allows students to engage with multiple voices, to situate their work in lived realities, and to reimagine social and ecological relationships.
A Legacy of Creative Impact
The legacy of thirty years of Srishti is now evident in its alumni who work as practitioners and educators across India and around the world. They carry forward the SMI learnings and practices of reflective practice and storytelling, of designing not only for function or beauty, but for meaning, connection, and change.
INR 500 / USD 6
As we celebrate the 150th Birth Anniversary of Shri Birsa MundaJi, we honour his legacy as a powerful leader and freedom fighter. Let us remember his unwavering spirit, which continues to empower and resonate as a symbol of resilience in our journey towards equality and freedom.
India is celebrating the 75th anniversary of the adoption of its Constitution. It was on November 26, 1949 that the Indian Constituent Assembly formally adopted the Constitution, which came into effect on January 26, 1950. Let's commemorate this significant milestone in our journey as a nation.
Biking around
Nearly half of all commuter trips in Copenhagen are made by bicycle. With around 400 km of cycle tracks, rush-hour “green wave” traffic lights, and cycle superhighways (or Supercykelstier), cycling is the city’s preferred way of life.
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Festive Diwali lighting @ Serangoon Road
'BUSINESS EXCITES ME,
Cricket defines me'
From game pitches to boardrooms, here's how Virat Kohli is shaping a business empire.
He’s mastered the game on the field, and now, he’s rewriting playbooks off it. Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli talks business, brand building, and the thrill of creating something lasting. From One8 Commune to Wrogn and from fitness to tech, he shares what drives the entrepreneur behind the athlete.
Cricket or business, what do you enjoy more?
Cricket has made me who I am, even the entrepreneur. Cricket
"In cricket, and in business, you can’t win alone. You need people who believe in the vision."
will always be my first love. It’s what gave me everything - the platform, the discipline, and the mindset. Business is an extension of those values. I enjoy the process of building things, leading teams, and setting goals. It’s quite similar to what we do on the field. Business excites me, and cricket defines me.
What about the parallels?
Launching a business or creating and selling a product is quite like going out on the field to play a match. There is nervousness. And that feeling only gets better as you keep playing. Gradually, the nervousness becomes the positive fuel that drives you.
There are a lot of parallels, actually. In cricket, you learn how to handle pressure, how to build a team culture, and how to adapt when things don’t go to plan, and it’s the same in business. A great product or idea won’t work if your team isn’t aligned. In cricket, and in business, you can’t win alone. You need people who believe in the vision.
Both worlds demand consistency, clarity, and the ability to evolve. It’s about staying committed to the longterm vision. Teamwork, handling pressure, and bouncing back after failure; it’s all the same game, just different arenas.
Travel musts.
What brings you the biggest joy in running a business?
Nothing better than seeing an idea come to life. I love that process! What I really enjoy is building, be it cricket teams, business ideas or experiences. I get the same buzz from a good partnership on the field as from a successful business concept. When people tell me they’ve had a great time at One8 Commune or love something from Wrogn, it feels amazing!
Business is not only about numbers; it’s about creating something meaningful and something that reflects my values.
What is non-negotiable in business?
Integrity. That’s absolutely non-negotiable for me both
in business and in life. You can make mistakes, but your intent has to be honest.
Whether it’s Wrogn, One8, or any venture I associate with, it has to align with my values. I’d rather walk away from something than compromise on what I stand for.
Tech, lifestyle, fitness or hospitality - which business do you enjoy the most?
They all excite me in different ways, but if I had to pick one, it would be fitness and lifestyle, because that’s where my journey truly began. Fitness changed my life, not just physically but mentally. Tech is fascinating because it’s the future. But lifestyle and fitness are personal.
Words Aarti Kapur Singh
My phone, sunglasses, and a cap or beanie. Music is very important for me, as is tuning off, so my headphones and my earplugs.
