iSkate Ice Skating Rink in Delhi

Wanting to try something new this New Year, we decided to go ice-skating. I had recently come across a newspaper ad for a new ice-skating rink in the Delhi area, and wanted to give it a try.

Well, this ice-skating rink turned out to be much bigger and better than I had expected. It was located on the sixth floor of the Ambiance Mall in Gurgaon, and was spread out over 15,000 square feet. I thought it would be quite cold in the ice-rink, and had brought lots of woolens along. However, it wasn’t; and as I skated I began to feel hotter and hotter, and finally took off my jacket.


Tickets were expensive, but that was expected as maintenance costs are sure to be high. As we went on a weekend, we had to pay Rs.400 for a one hour 15 minute session. We were allowed to enter about 15 minutes before our scheduled time, so that we could put on ice-skates. These grey-coloured figure skates were provided by the ice-rink, and were available in all sizes. As we had booked tickets for a disco session, there was DJ music and strobe lights throughout our session, as well

Below is the price list of iSkate in Ambi Mall:

• Weekdays: Rs.300 per session, and Rs.200 for spectators. There is no disco session, except on Wednesday nights.
• Weekends (Fri-Sun): Rs.400 per session, and Rs.300 for spectators. Disco sessions are held once in the afternoon, and once in the night.
• Penguin skating aid for kids costs Rs.150.
• Locker rental costs Rs.100. To save on locker rental charges, we left our bags in the security check-in of one of the flagship retail stores in Ambience Mall.

There were lots of coaches and trainers around (some foreign) to guide you about ice-skating, and give tips. There were also marshals to pick up fallen people, ensure that everyone skates in an anti-clockwise direction, and do not stare.

According to Bird Group, the company that owns this ice-skating rink in Delhi, iSkate has a capacity for 200 people. At the beginning of the session, there were more than 150 people on the rink, but this number soon lessened as people began walking off due to various reasons, like tiredness, injury, embarrassment or soaking pants. I fell down about six-seven times, and so did my friends. A useful tip: Tie your jacket around your waist to minimise the impact of falling on your behind. Also ensure that there is nothing sharp in your jacket, or else…

iSkate is open from 10am to 10pm. This ice-skating rink in Delhi also has a café, where you can order snacks and drinks. It also has an upper level for spectators and parents to watch.

It is not easy to get here if you don’t have your own transport. The closest metro station is at IFFCO Chowk. You can also take a bus from Karol Bagh or Dhaula Kuan, get off at the toll bridge or at the mall, and walk.

Another ice-skating rink is believed to have opened in Kirti Nagar, for which I will write a review later. Have you ever tried ice-skating? What was your experience like?

Best Gifts for Fathers Day

It is tough to select the best gifts for Father's Day. This occassion is just around the corner. Every year Father's Day is celebrated on the third Sunday of June, in many countries around the world. Similar to how Mother's Day is meant for mothers, this day is meant to honour fathers, celebrate fatherhood and revive paternal bonds. This year Father's Day falls on the 20th of June.

Selecting the Best Gifts for Fathers Day

It is always difficult to choose gifts for a guy, especially so your dad. If you ask your dad what he wants for Father's Day, he will most probably say 'Nothing'. So, here are some things that are sure to make this Fathers Day real special for your Dad.

1. Spend some time with your dad by going to a pub, restaurant or sports event that he enjoys. This should be quality time, where you actually have a conversation. Ask him for some advice. There's no need to take it, but at least try to listen and understand.

2. Make him something to eat. Dad's love to eat and would rarely deny food. Just make sure the food is not something that has been forbidden by his doctors, like too oily, salty or sweet food. You can add healthy substitute products to the recipe to show that you care.

3. Make him something useful to wear or use. This includes sweaters, scarfs, caps or home goods like shelves, desktop stationery and garden decorations. What you make depends on your talent and creativity. You know your dad best, so make something he really needs or wants!

4. Call your dad. If you live really far away from your dad and cannot visit him for Father's Day, it would be nice if you could call him and wish him. The very fact that you remembered would mean a lot to him. You could also send a card, e-greeting or e-mail forward. Though these are not too personal, they sometimes have good wordings that express what you've been meaning to say.

5. Food and Drink - It would be great if you could present food hampers to your dad yourself and spend some time sharing the food. However, if you can't then you could just order online to have it delivered to his doorstep in time for Father's Day. Some things your dad would like are packed meat, alcohol, wines and Fathers Day Cakes.

6. Comfortable Clothing. Dad's love recieving and using comfortable clothing accessories such as driving gloves, socks, slippers, sandals and other comfortable footwear. Buy something contemporary that never goes out of style. As these are everyday items, they will be forever needed as the old ones will soon wear out.

Do you have any more ideas for great Father's Day gifts? When and how do you celebrate Father's Day in your country? Which of these 'Best Gifts for Father's Day' would you be most likely to give your Dad for the occassion?

India International Trade Fair, Delhi - 2009

The India International Trade Fair or IITF is an annual business exhibition in Delhi where various Foreign Countries, Indian States and Government Departments showcase their products, achievements and services. In 2009, the 29th edition of the Trade Fair is being held from 14th to 27th November at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi. After hearing about the mouth watering kababs available at the Pakistani food stall, I took a day off from work to check out the Trade Fair. Well, here is a list of the stalls which I visited, the things I saw and the items I bought (after bargaining).

We took an autorickshaw to Pragati Maidan because we did not want to risk our pockets being picked by the large crowds thronging the metro trains. After getting off, we walked a bit to Gate No.2 near Purana Quila to purchase the tickets. On weekdays the ticket price is Rs.30 for adults. Security was cool - no long lines or such hassles here.

Uttaranchal - After entering from Gate No.2, the first pavillion we saw at the India International Trade Fair was that of Uttaranchal State. Here, some figures dressed in skisuits and skis were displayed by the Toursim Department. Other things being sold were some shawls, sweaters and some awful local looking clothes. We quickly disappeared from here.

Consumer Goods Stall - Well, this is the stall that sells cleaning equipment, home furnishings, home appliances and so on. Here we bought a plastic broom for Rs. 90 and a carpet cleaner for Rs. 40. We did not bargain, coz my friend was in dreamland at that moment. I also checked the prices of some goods I had bought recently to see if they were less expensive at the Trade Fair or more. I was amazed to find that the price difference was shocking. Just last week I had bought some branded pillows from Paharganj for Rs.100 each, which were priced at Rs.300 here.

Khadi and Rural Industries Stall - I like to wear khadi stuff, so a visit here was definite. We saw lots of khadi sarees, suit pieces, bags etc. There were also rural footwear, pickles, honey and other cottage industry products on sale. I had a Buran drink for Rs.10. Buran is a drink made from the red Rhododendron flower in Himachal Pradesh. I really liked the taste of the Buran drink and bought a bottle of Burani squash for Rs. 70.

Indian Food Court - We searched all over for the Pakistani food stall at the India International Trade Fair. Unable to find it and tired after all that walking, we settled for the Hyderabadi Biryani at the Andhra Pradesh stall in the Indian Food Court. It was just not worth it. At the cost of Rs. 140 per plate, the rice was really salty, chicken was tasteless and the chutney was watery. The portions were also small - A definite embarrassment to the real Hyderabadi Biryani.

The International Pavillion is the main draw at the India International Trade Fair in Delhi. With something in our stomachs, we walked on to the foreign stalls at the International Pavillion 12 A and 12 B at Pragati Maidan. There was a really long line to enter it. Breaking the line like normal Delhiites, we were caught in a large crowd of line breakers trying to push through a police rope and steel barricades. Escaping from a stampede like situation, we rejoined the queue, now fast moving and entered the foreign pavillion, which was less crowded owing to the police restrictions on entry. My budget was to buy one thing from each country, spending not more than Rs.1000 in total.

Malaysia - There were many stalls selling precious stones, jewellery and flowers, just like Thailand. I bought one paper folding fan for Rs.50 from one of the stalls here and also a fruity smelling soap for Rs.10.

Vietnam - I happened to find some of the cute Qipao dresses I was always looking for here. Also known as cheongsam, these Qipao dresses are traditional Chinese dresses made popular by Hollywood movies. I bargained and bought one Qipao blouse for only Rs.350. The material was good and the fit was exact - now this is what you call a good bargain.

Pakistan - There was lots of choice in women's clothing here. The saris and suit materials at the Trade Fair were really beautiful. There was also a stall of chappals that looked really nice. However, each pair of chappals was priced at Rs.500, so I had to let it go. I finally bought Shan Biryani Masala, which was available at Rs.100 for three packets.

Indonesia - The Indonesia stall was relatively empty. I bought one colourful wooden cat for Rs.50 from here.

Thailand - There was a large number of stalls from Thailand. Even more than that of Pakistan. Most were selling jewellery, plastic flowers and handicrafts. I bought a packet of scented elephant candles and incense sticks for Rs.50.

Turkey - The stalls from Turkey were selling crystal artifacts, jewellery and nazar keychains, bracelets and wall hangings. I bought one blue nazar (evil eye) keychain for my brother and one nazar bracelet for myself. The total cost was Rs.200.

Of the other stalls that I noticed - The Afghanistan stalls had items such as saffron, dry fruits, nuts, carpets, embroidered purses and kurtas. The United Kingdom stall had silver cutlery and tea sets. The Egypt stall had leather wallets, items and papyrus paintings. Bangladesh had lots of sarees, embroidered artifacts and cloth dolls. I still had Rs.190 left, but could not find anything suitable to buy in that price range.

After exiting the foreign pavillion at IITF, we managed to find the Pakistani Food Court. It was called Warsi Foods and was right opposite the Defence Pavillion. We had a plate of Chicken Malai Tikka (6 pieces for Rs.90). It was really delicious, especially the pudina chutney, and worth spending the time searching for.

The last stall we visited at the India International Trade Fair, 2009 was Maharashtra. Just as we entered the pavilion, we realized that we had to climb a large flight of stairs to view the displays. Already tired, we quickly exited and decided to go home. It was a good day of shopping and I managed to get some great bargains. Did you visit the 2009 Trade Fair in Delhi? How was your experience and what did you purchase?

Ambience Mall - Gurgaon

Ambience Mall - Gurgaon

Situated on the NH-8 highway (Gurgaon Expressway) in Gurgaon, India, Ambiance Mall, also known as Ambi Mall is currently the largest working mall in India, covering around 1,800,000 square feet. I had seen it a couple of times while on the way to Gurgaon multinational companies for job interviews. I wanted to drop in for a visit but was always pressed for time. Today, my friend and I decided to check out what it had to offer.

Amby Mall is spread over seven floors, with three floors having 300 premium retail shops featuring international brands such as Marks & Spencer, Debenhams, Next, Pantaloons, Reliance Trends and Big Bazaar. It also has the regular fast food outlets like McDonalds and a food court offering a range of Indian and Continental food. Here, we ordered a thali for Rs.100 and were sadly disappointed with the quality of the food. Also, there was not much choice at Ambi Mall when it came to drinks and I had to settle for a mosambi juice that costed a whopping 60 bucks.

Ambience Mall also has a 7-theatre PVR multiplex, bowling alley, Fitness First gym and a games arcade. We bought a card worth 200 bucks for the Ambi Mall rides and games arcade. My friend played a few first person shooter games and then won two soft toys and sweets for me at the toy picker meant for little kids...I was really thrilled!! We did'nt try any of the rides in the amusement park section of the games arcade as we had just had lunch and my friend was afraid of being sick...he just does not like these roller coaster type rides.

Other utilities at Ambi Mall include around 76 escalators and elevators, CCTV's, dog squads and strict security. It opens and closes at 10am and 11pm respectively. There is ample parking space at Ambiance Mall. The parking for cars is underground while that for bikes is on the open ground towards the back of the mall. Current parking charges are Rs. 30/-.

Have you ever visited Ambiance Mall? What was your experience like?

Manesar and the MGF Metropolitan Mall, Gurgaon

MGF -The Metropolitan Mall, Gurgaon and Manesar

I have lived all my life in Delhi, and have visited Gurgaon just once - for a go cart race inaugurated by Sachin Tendulkar. All job offers in Gurgaon, were discarded as I had no intention of traveling so far to work. However, recently, with very few job prospects available in Delhi, I have been thinking along different lines. My current job sucks real bad, as I have been posted on the client end in a really lousy company. With no growth prospects, a boring profile, a crappy environment and mismanagement all around, I thought I'd attend some interviews to get myself out of this quagmire. When I got an interview call from a multinational based in Gurgaon, I decided to finally travel out there to try my luck.

Getting to Gurgaon

Autorickshaws don't go to Gurgaon, as it is located in a different State. Those that agree ask for hefty fares to drop you up to the border in Mahipalpur.

I found out from a friend that the service of the Karol Bagh - Gurgaon DTC buses is quite good. There is one around every 10 - 15 minutes. I landed up at the Karol Bagh Gurgaon bus stop located near the Hanuman Murti roundabout to begin my adventure. The conductor charged me Rs. 15 for the ride to IFFCO Chowk, Gurgaon. The bus was initially empty, but soon got quite crowded. I reached my destination in around 50 minutes. A direct bus, it travels along the empty Ridge Road and has very few stops.

After attending the interview, I met an old friend as I was looking for transport to make my way back home. She had a car and so we decided to go for a drive at the malls and nearby places around Gurgaon, before turning home for Delhi.

Manesar - An Out Of The Way Experience

Manesar is a town located 25 kilometers from Gurgaon on the Delhi - Jaipur Highway in the State of Haryana.

Though originally an industrial town, in recent years, it has become popular as a weekend getaway for workaholics from Delhi. Rock climbing in the Aravalis, paragliding and hot air ballooning are some sports available through hotels and resorts that have sprung up in and around Manesar.

There are hot water springs and spas in some areas of Manesar. The area is also famed for leopards and other wildlife that roam about freely. Well, we did not spot any leopard or try out any adventure sports, we just drove to the McDonald's located off the Highway (NH 8) and had chicken burgers and iced tea. The toll road on the way to Manesar charges Rs.21 each way for a car.

MGF - The Metropolitan Mall

On our way back to Delhi from Manesar, we decided to take a right from IFFCO Chowk and visit a mall on the Mehrauli Gurgaon Road.

Driving around, we chose the MGF Metropolitan Mall for no specific reason. We parked in the large underground parking and took the lift up to Shopper's Stop.

This medium sized mall is one of the oldest in Delhi. It is spread over an area of 2,50,000 square feet and has three floors with around 150 retail stores. On the second floor of MGF - Metropolitan Mall is Amoeba, the bowling alley while on the third floor is a PVR Cinema.

We visited Amoeba, for a game of bowling. The rates here are Rs. 125 per game on weekdays and Rs.150 on weekends. The bowling alley was small with only 4 lanes. We changed into bowling shoes available there and set out to have some fun. Though most of the balls I rolled went into the gutter - I did manage to knock all the pins over in one go during a lucky fluke try. I don't remember exactly how much I scored, but I ended up losing to my friend.

After doing a bit of shopping at the MGF Metropolitan Mall, we headed back to Delhi. The line and traffic jam at the Delhi - Gurgaon toll road was real long. We paid the boy at the toll gate the fee of Rs.16 for a car, before he hurriedly waved us off.

I don't know if I'll get the job for the interview which I attended, but I sure had a fun time cutting work and roaming about in the Gurgaon - Manesar area.

Select Citywalk Mall - Saket

Select Citywalk Mall - Saket

On the weekend, I thought I'd take a trip to Select City Walk Mall located at the Saket District Centre of South Delhi. Developed as a joint venture by the Select Group and the Aarone Group, this mall opened its doors to customers in October 2007. It is spread over an area of around 6 acres and consists of branded retail stores, restaurants, a multiplex cinema, serviced apartments, offices and an outdoor seating area with a dancing fountain. Parking is available for around 2,000 cars.

This medium sized three floor mall has around 125 retail stores featuring international brands such as Aldo, Pantaloons, Calvin Klein, Esprit, French Connection, Gant, Guess, Kipling, La Senza, Levi's, Mango, Next, Pepe Jeans, Replay, Tommy Hilfiger and United Colors of Benetton. My friend picked up a Converse T-shirt which was on sale at the Pantaloons Store. A pianist sits at a grand piano on the first floor of Select Citywalk Mall entertaining the posh crowd that frequents this place for shopping.

The Food Court called 'Food Talk' is based on the second floor. We had some snacks on the outdoor terrace that overlooks the plaza. Here, lots of people, even ladies, were sitting in cushioned areas, smoking. Feeling a bit odd, we went out as soon as a slight drizzle began. The mall also has other restaurants such as Pizza Hut and KFC's inside. For those looking for entertainment, Select Citiwalk Mall has a 1,235 seater, 6 screen PVR Premiere Multiplex that shows the latest movies. This multiplex includes two Gold Class theatres.

Outside the main entrance of Select Citywalk Mall is an amphitheatre type of sitting area with fountains. Named 'Sanskriti', this open air landscaped plaza can be used for cultural events, fairs, festivals, exhibitions and other events. We hung around here, chatting, watching folks playing about in the fountain till it got dark, before taking an auto back home.

Have you visited Select Citywalk Mall in Saket? How was the experience?

Shopping Malls in Delhi - Rajouri Garden

Malls in Rajouri Garden

Other than Noida, I love to hang out in the malls of Rajouri Garden. It is easy to get here because of the Indraprastha - Dwarka metro line. This area located in West Delhi boasts of five medium and small sized malls. They are the City Square Mall, Westgate Mall, TDI Mall, TDI Paragon Mall and Shoppers Stop. Here is a short review of these malls.

City Square Mall - This is a medium sized mall in Rajouri Garden. Located in Shivaji District Centre, just near the metro station, City Square Mall was developed by the MGF Group, which has constructed many malls in the Gurgaon area. The main feature of this mall is its large Lifestyle Department Store. Some of the branded stores at the mall are W, Nike and KFC. The food court on the top floor is a great place to sit around and hang out with your friends. Games like air hockey, trampoline and rides for kids are available outside the mall in a separate area.

West Gate Mall - A short walk from City Square Mall, West Gate Mall was developed by the Today Homes Group. The largest mall in the Rajouri Garden area, this mall has five floors plus two levels of basement parking. West Gate Mall offers mostly international brands. It has three anchor stores which include Pantaloons and Marks & Spencer. The mall also has a six-screen Movie Time multiplex on the fourth floor.

TDI Mall - Developed by the TDI Group, this mall has four floors plus two basement levels for parking. The main store in this mall is the large TATA Westside Department store that occupies several floors. Other stores in this mall such as United Colors of Benetton, Reebok, Adidas, Levi's and Dockers open out on the vast atrium. The mall also has various upmarket hair salons such as L'Oreal Looks and Habibs. TDI Mall has two air hockey tables and video arcade games on the ground floor of the mall.

Shoppers Stop - This is a separate mall that only houses Shopper's Stop. Developed by the Eros Group, it stands on three levels. It consists of the usual Shopper's Stop brands such as Kashish Indian wear and a range of makeup and perfume. The back gate of Shopper's Stop opens out into a snack area that connects to TDI Mall. I like the chicken rolls available here.

TDI Paragon Mall - The smallest mall in Rajouri Garden, this mall was also developed by the TDI group. Comprising three floors, most of the shops in this mall are empty or closed. The main reason people even go to this mall is the four screen Wave Cinemas complex on the third floor that can seat more than a thousand people at a go.

Have you ever visited any malls in Rajouri Garden?


Related Articles -
Shopping Malls in Noida

Shopping Malls in Delhi - Noida

Shopping Malls in Delhi, Noida - Centrestage Mall, Great India Place and Spice World Mall.

This weekend I had a busy time mall hopping in Noida, located in nearby Uttar Pradesh near Delhi. With no means of transport of my own, I took a bus to Rajnigandha Chowk and from there took a cycle rickshaw for Rs.10 to Centrestage Mall where I began my 'tafri baazi'!!!!

Center Stage Mall, Noida - Located next to Atta Market in Sector 18, Centrestage Mall has a glass facade and stands around six stories tall. Branded clothing stores are there on the ground, first and second floors such as Westside, Nike and Adidas. The other floors are relatively empty and mainly house restaurants such as Ruby Tuesday, Punjabi Tadka, Pizza Hut and pubs like Platinum Lounge and Geoffrey's.

'Club Elevates', one of the top nightclubs in Delhi is on one of the top floors. The railings here are barricaded coz some depressed soul once jumped off committing suicide. The list of rules pasted outside mentioned that only smart club casuals are allowed. People with sneakers would not be permitted entry. Centerstage Mall also has the five screen Wave Cinema multiplex.

On my way down, I picked up a can of Diet Coke from a coke vending machine for Rs.25. I had to put two ten rupees notes (which were rejected by the machine twice) and one five rupee coin before the coke can came out through the slot. In the basement is the play area for kids, some knick knack stores and a display of the new Tata Sumo car. There was also an Air Hockey table where I doled out Rs.40 for a five minute game. The result was a 7-7 draw with my brother.

After a powercut, the airconditioning in the mall stopped functioning and the place got quite heated up. We thought about going to the Amusement Park outside Centrestage Mall, but it was way too hot once we went outside, so we dropped the idea. Instead, we crossed the road and went to the Great India Place Mall.

Great India Place Mall, Noida - This mall is huge huge huge. It has a range of designer labels like Ritu Kumar and Satya Paul, branded fashion stores like Globus, Bossini and Shoppers Stop, grocery supermarkets such as Big Bazaar and Dollar Store and way too many fast food restaurants. It also has the five screen Adlabs Cinemas and the Ebony Lounge. We had fun testing the new X-Box 360 at the Planet M store. It was priced at Rs.20,000 while the Playstation 3 was for Rs.20,000 and Rs.25,000. My brother thought that the graphics acceleration was real smooth and he is planning to buy one in the near future.

On the top floor of the Great India Place was the Food Court and the games section. As it was Saturday, the games cost a bit more than they do on weekdays. We bought a 'pool bowling combo' for Rs.250 (twenty shots of bowing and one frame of pool) and headed to the pool table. Since, it was my first time, my brother and the helpful assistant explained to me the fine nuances of playing 'real' pool as opposed to computer games - how to hold the cue, hit the centre of the white cue ball and the amount of force to use. I was quite lucky and managed to put quite a few balls in the pocket with tough looking shots.

The Bowling Alley was fun too. We had to take off our shoes to avoid slipping. The assistant at Great India Place bowling area showed me how to hold the ball and throw it down the middle of the lane so that all the pins would fall in one go. All the same , I got quite a few gutter balls. Since, I am quite petite, the assistant gave me a light ball to use, however, there was this eight year old kid who wanted the same green ball. Eventually, tired of the kid grabbing the ball from my hands I used a slightly heavier pink ball. Now my right arm hurts real bad.

Next we went to grab a bite at the Food Court. We had to purchase a Debit Card which could be swiped at the different food stalls selling donuts, street food, south indian, chinese, italian and punjabi food. The Dollar Store selling American products was just opposite the Food Court. However, instead of selling stuff for a dollar or less (Rs. 40), most products were priced at a steep Rs.99. Later, we visited Big Bazaar, the supermarket in the basement of Great India Place Mall to purchase some 'Rasna' asked for by Mom and spent some time sweating it out in the checkout queue.

The best thing about Great India Place Mall was the benches placed all over the floor where we could rest our tired feet and do some people watching. Our next stop - Spice World Mall.

Spice World Mall - We took a cycle rickshaw for Rs.20 to Spice World Mall located in Sector 25, Noida. Compared to the Great India Place, this mall seemed miniscule. The main attractions of Spice Mall is the 4D Movie Theatre, the eight screen Spice Cinema complex and the food court on the third floor where lots of couples were hanging out.

After lazing about a bit in the food court of Spice World Mall, we went to see what a 4D Movie was all about. The cost was Rs.100 for a fifteen minute movie. We booked tickets for 'The Escape from Bane Manor' a mystery horror flick. The staff gave us 3D glasses to wear before the eerie experience began. The movie was about a Victorian castle that is haunted by ghosts, vampires etc. It was quite scary because of the 4D experience during which the seats shook, wind blew and water got sprayed in my face. The other two 4D movies running were the historical 'Legacy of the Pharaohs' and adventure film 'The Lost Island'. I doubt they were half as scary as the one we watched.

I had a fun weekend after a real long time. I enjoyed played Pool the most followed by Air Hockey. Have you visited these malls? How was your experience?

Related Articles-
Shopping Malls in Rajouri Garden

Jalebee Cartel - Music Review

Jalebee Cartel - Music Review

Last weekend, I went shopping for an Adidas Originals sports jacket both to keep me warm from the icy winds and to appear cool. Adidas Originals has a different logo from Adidas Performance clothing. While Adidas performance sportswear is meant for sports professionals, Adidas Originals clothing with their older logo is used by hip hop, rock and pop music artists such as Robbie Williams, Limp Bizkit, Missy Elliot, Korn and DMC. Their exclusive store in New Delhi is located in F Block Connaught Place, New Delhi.

When I bought the Adidas Originals jacket, I was presented with a free music CD of the electronic dance music group Jalebee Cartel. Their album 'Regathering', is the first full length mix album compiled and mixed by them. Jalebee Cartel consists of a group of five DJ's who have performed at pubs and discotheques around India and a few foreign countries.

Featuring 11 tracks, 'Regathering' consists of techno songs which would be fun to listen to while driving. The music album is also useful for any editor who needs background music to add to a promo, television advertisement and so on. I remember, when I was working with a top television production house in New Delhi, we were always in search of such music.

The tracks that I liked the most of Jalebee Cartel are Track Number.2 - Beautiful Rising Nature Club Remix and Track Number No.10 Matt Rowan Self Inflicted. A minus point of the album - it came with a list where each member DJ thanked 'all aunties, uncles, cousins and relatives' for funding the album in true 'Indian' fashion. C'mon guys, this looked so amateurish. Next time, keep your list shorter.

Ever heard of Jalebee Cartel? Are you a fan of Electronic Dance Music?

Reliance Fresh & Subhiksha - Supermarkets in India

Reliance Fresh and Subhiksha - Retail Stores or Supermarkets in India -A Review

Reliance Fresh and Subhiksha have opened up retail supermarkets selling fruits and vegetables in major cities of India. Recently, Bharti has tied up with Wallmart to open up supermarkets in India. This post is about supermarkets in India and their long term effects.


A few days ago, I visited the local Reliance Fresh supermarket that had just opened in my Delhi neighbourhood and this is what I observed -

1. Range of Products - Regular vegetables, fruits, Reliances' own brands of packed pulses, Maggi products and Pepsi.

2. Prices - The price was marked in paisas just like at American stores. For example - Potatoes were priced at 5.90 per kg while onions were 15.90 per kg. Yeah right, what difference does 10p make?

3. Comparable Cost - The rate of vegetables like onions and potatoes were 10p less than that of local vegetable sellers. The rate of other products were however much higher than they should have been. Seems like Reliance Fresh applied the same strategy that McDonalds uses to attract customers - ice cream for Rs. 7 and Cola for Rs. 20.

4. Customer Service - The staff in red shirts were mainly checking to see if people were shoplifting and did'nt seem to know much about the products or company. The guards kept yelling at everyone to have their bags checked before leaving.

5. Checking Out - There was a long queue that moved very slowly. VAT or value added tax was added to the bill which increased the cost of the vegetables just bought.

6. Parking - Absolutely zero parking. The guard was yelling at local rickshaw pullers to move away from the entrance.

7. Customers - were middle class folk from my apartment block. They kept touching and turning around each vegetable before selecting them just like they do at the regular vegetable sellers. This looked really out of place and added to a huge crowd.

What is the future for retail supermarkets in India ?

Well, Superbazaar was a government supermarket in the 1980's that closed down because of financial irregularities by employees and a lack of customers. Here's why I think Reliance Fresh and Subhiksha will go the same way -

1. Operating costs are too high - Rent for shops at prime areas, salaries of atleast 15 people at each store, refrigeration, transport, electricity, advertising and losses through shoplifting have to be accounted for. The profits earned through sales will be barely enough to recover costs.

2. Indians are too cheap and thrifty - Most customers won't take the bait of cheap potatoes. They would rather buy one kg of potatoes from Reliance and other products from whichever vegetable seller or retail store is cheaper.

3. Indians like to bargain and bully - Bargaining and getting freebies like chilli or coriander is not allowed at supermarkets like Reliance Fresh or Subhiksha.

4. Type of Products - The potatoes and onions on sale were of a small size. Some vegetables looked like they had been sprayed with something to make them shiny and attractive. People usually don't buy processed foods like jam, sauces, cheese, noodles etc. because ' yeh cheez pet main jum jaata hain'. (harmful as it is not easily digestible)

5. Vegetables are not changed everday and are refrigerated at night. People are aware that the food is not as 'fresh' as that of the local vegetable seller.

6. Most Indians like to shop in privacy, so that 'nazar' or evil eye does not fall on the goods they buy. This, I think is the main reason why a majority of the crowd at Reliance Fresh is just looking around and not buying much. (like me)


Effects of Retail Supermarkets Like Reliance Fresh

- It may put small vegetable sellers and retail stores out of business. I bet even Reliance does not want this because sales of more costly Reliance products like cellphones, Vimal clothes etc. will suffer.

- Farmers are supposed to earn more as Reliance will buy directly from them instead of the mandi or wholesaler. Knowing the kind of cheats the Ambanis and Reliance are, I seriously doubt they will give the farmer a good price for their produce. Probably, just a rupee or so more so that the wholesalers lose the good vegetables.

- The government will benefit because vegetables will now be taxed.

The initial days saw a huge rush as people came to see what Reliance Fresh was all about after recieving pretty invitations and shopping card offers from the company. A few weeks later the crowd has thinned out. The companies are declaring 'huge profits' but I doubt if they can maintain the momentum in the long run.

Have you shopped at Reliance Fresh or Subhiksha ? Do you prefer the local vegetable seller ?

Christmas Shopping - Where To Get Cheap Stuff

Christmas Shopping - Go Crazy Splurging On Decorations, Clothes, Tree Ornaments, Gifts, Candles, Sweets, Cookies, Lights and Holiday Destinations.

With only a few days left until Christmas, I thought I'd write a bit about christmas shopping. Last year, I visited Janpath in Connaught Place and was totally enamoured by the christmas tree ornaments, christmas toys, Christmas gift baskets, christmas decorations and other christmas stuff being sold in makeshift shops under a tent. Most of the things on display are knock offs of European or American Christmas decorations made cheaply in China and smuggled or exported into the country. The Christmas decorations and Christmas lights were not as cheap as I had expected as foreign tourists were swarming around the place picking them up at what they thought were dirt cheap prices. One day after Christmas, I went to the same shops and bargained with the sellers for a rate four times less that what the pre Christmas rate was. I saved those decorations and am planning to use them this year. I used the Christmas lights for Diwali and my cousin's marriage.

I remember years ago when I was a kid I would read about Christmas in story books and admire the beautiful pictures of Christmas trees and snow. At that time the only Christmas decorations and Christmas ornaments available in the market were the Christmas trees made of green tinsel and bells and balls made of glass and plastic. I had always wished to have a thick big green christmas tree decorated with lights and ornaments like carol singers, angels, chalets, trumpets, candy sticks, gingerbread men, snowmen, holly, santa, mistletoe and stockings and could never understand why they were unavailable in the stores.

The only time I saw a real Christmas tree was when my Dad paid someone 100 bucks to cut one off a hill and drag it home when we were on vacation. However, around three to four years back, ever since the govenment opened up the economy, Christmas decorations like plastic Christmas trees and ornaments have become available in the market.

It's a real pleasure to walk around Connaught Place or the new Malls and look at the beautiful Christmas decorations in the shop windows. I was planning to buy some warm new Christmas clothes which I'll use for new year and the rest of the winter as there are lots of Christmas discounts being offered.

Last year, I spent Christmas at home and went to Goa for the New Year. That's because I had heard that a Christmas in Goa can be real expensive and crowded. I simply love Christmas cookies, marzipans, plum pudding and wine filled fruit cake. This year I'll miss the Goan Christmas sweets like Perad, Bebinca, Kalkals and Neuros I had last time as we will be going off to Shimla for the new year...(fingers crossed). The cheapest place in Delhi to buy good Christmas cookies, puddings and cakes is Bangla Pastry Shop in Gol Market. Wenger's in Connaught Place also has a good collection of Christmas goodies but the rates are much higher.

In school we were taught to make Christmas cards of paper and send to our friends. Nowadays though I usually send free online Christmas cards through websites like 1001 postcards, yahoo and indiatimes. I don't recieve many replies though so this time I'll send Christmas and New Year greetings through scraps on orkut.

When it comes to online Christmas shopping, I have realised that it's the same as regular online shopping. Folks log on to the same sites and buy stuff like i pods, digital cameras, magazine subscriptions and boring ill fitting clothes for family and friends. When it comes to shopping, I would definitely not recommend online Christmas shopping unless you are shopping for a friend in another city, are an extremely busy person or live far away from a shop. You will only pick up meaningful stuff that no one else has if you go to an out of the way shop. You will also get a feel of the size and material of the Christmas product. Anyway, if you shop online now you'll probably have your gift delivered way after Christmas!

Hope you have a good time Christmas shopping. If you have any more cheap Christmas shopping tips please post a comment.

Diwali - Gold Shopping

Buying Gold Jewellery in India

As the marriage season and festivals like Diwali and Id come nearer, the streets are filled with folks shopping for gold or people like me who go around viewing the displays of gold jewellery in shop windows.

Gold is measured by grams. The value changes everyday according to the price in the market so it can be a good investment to make an easy profilt on. The term carat or karat is used to indicate the amount of gold present, when it is mixed with other metals. Pure gold is very soft so other metals have to be mixed so that designs can be carved and precious stones can be stuck in it. 24-carat gold is pure gold (99.99%), 18-carat gold has 75% purity while 12-carat gold is only 50% pure. There are also 20,16, 14,10 and 9 carat gold. Gold filled or gold plated jewellery is cheaper while white gold jewellery which is made with a mixture of nickle can cause allergies to some people.

1. Traditional Gold Shops - you'll find them in local specialised gold markets like Karol Bagh or Lajpat Nagar in Delhi and Zaveri Bazar or Chira Bazar in Mumbai. They sell gold jewellery in traditional patterns and you would normally find other women wearing the same designs of gold jewellery at weddings or parties. You have to buy the gold at the market rate plus making charges. You can also sell the gold at the market rate when you need cash in the future. Most gold that is sold here are 22K. Gold jewellery with lots of precious stones like diamonds, rubies, emeralds etc. are usually of 18 carat - 9 carat.


2. Modern Jewellery Shops - like Tanishq, Gili, DTC, D'Damas, Nakshatra, Oyzter Bay. Most of these shops have a fixed price attatched to the gold jewellery. The gold is usually of 18 karat or less and does not have much resale value. Designs though are unique and you won't find the same type of jewellery on other women.


3. Buying Gold from ICICI Bank or HDFC Bank Branches - Gold is available at select branches as a small square in 2.5 gm, , 5gm, 8 gm, 10gm, 20 gm and 50 gm amounts. The gold is 24 carat - 99.99 percent pure gold as it does not need to be durable to be made into jewellery. This is easily resellable, only problem is you can't wear it. So, it is useful only as an investment and is usually bought by guys.

4. Buying gold online - some gold shops like totaram.com sell 22 ct gold jewellery online. It can be delivered gift wrapped anywhere in India. Other websites sell other gold jewellery of 18 carat and lower.


So, what are you shopping for this Diwali ?