Interviews

Here’s a detailed interview of the Founder of Tjori- Mansi Gupta.

SR: Tell us how the idea originated? What inspired it?
MG: The idea for Tjori originated on a white board at the University of Warton with a huge foresight. We explored this venture because we saw an opportunity which was unexplored due to the lack of knowledge on the traditional and heritage handicraft of India and decided to not just revive them in India but to also take it on a global platform.

SR: Take us through the early days. The struggles. The long hours.
MG: We started our brand ‘Tjori’ with a very basic level investment which came from our families. As soon as we started receiving an overwhelming response from our customers, we then decide to scale up our thoughts for a bigger venture, the early day struggles of money, less man power and the task of figuring out how to deal with technology, logistics etc. was our biggest issues, the one thing we were are about was the aim of the brand, and that led us to where we are today

SR: What was the single most challenging task that you had to cross in order to launch your brand?
MG: When we started our E-commerce website Tjori.com , it received such an unexpected response that our site crashed and that was indeed one of the biggest challenges we all went through and now our website runs on system known as Gatsby which can load pictures in less than 0.18 seconds delivering a smooth and effortless experience for our customers.

SR: Why Indian handicrafts? There is already a surge of a lot of brands who were and exploring this niche.
MG: I chose Indian handicrafts because I felt there were unexplored areas in Indian Handicraft industry due to the lack of knowledge on heritage and art & craft of India. The idea was to revive the handicraft through our platform and take it globally and not just India, we wanted to build our own brand identity. Tjori is now an established lifestyle brand with Apparel, Home, Wellness, Jewelry, Shoes, Bags and now a new category of Mother & child and Men, all of which adheres to the richness of Indian handicrafts. A well-priced collection that values the authenticity and craftsmanship while following the global standards of quality.

SR: Does your business have any roots related to your Jammu memories? If so, how?
MG: Yes! Of course. Our collections do reflect the essence of the state. One of our recent collections Gulfam has been truly inspired from Jammu and Kashmir taking brilliance from the beautiful place, we introduced our velvet phiran and pallazo sets which are one of the most popular outfits in the state and our Kanni collection is also one of our older collections that shows the intricate craft of the region. Also, our whole saffron wellness range has been one of the inspiration from the state since world’s best saffron is grown in the Jammu and Kashmir state and the ingredient plays a really important role in the lives of people living there and to continue the ongoing heritage we wanted to have the golden ingredient in our products.

SR: You come from a business family. Would you say that made life easy when it came to launching your own property?
MG: Yes, it did make it a little easy for us. Since our families were already from the business background, we had the dedication and commitment it takes to run a business. The values and the will to commit to a project it and take it to glorious heights was a core value system, the handlings of day to day activities also came slightly easy due to this reason.

SR: As a businesswoman, where do you think Indian handicraft industry is heading to? The economy as it is running slow.
MG: Handicrafts are matchless expressions as they represent the Indian culture, tradition, and heritage of the country. Handicraft sector is directly related to the economy of the rural artisans that means its growth, is the mirror image of rural economy, which for India holds high weightage. The contribution of Indian handicrafts cannot be neglected. The industry has offered employment to a large number of artisans from generation to generation. The condition of the industry in India has changed now and these developments will help speed up the slow runny economy.

SR: What all brand/artists/artisans do you have associated with you. What is their expectation from your platform?
MG: We don’t have any brand or artist associated with us. We have an in house team that helps keep the expectation of brand intact, but we definitely would look forward in the future to do such collaboration for our brand.

SR: What about employees. What do you look for in an ideal employee? What’s his standing in taking your brand to the next level?
MG: Employee for us is the most valuable asset of the company, finances come and go but the core of the company is its employee. Employee’s attitude towards his work matters the most. Also, an ideal employee sets high goals and reaches them. Such an employee is visionary and sets long-term realistic goals. In a way that I could rely on them at any given situation, these people are a very big factor in the success of the brand ‘Tjori’.

SR: How do you see things shaping up in the future? What’s the next big step?
MG: I see the brand  ‘Tjori’ growing and keeping a firm foot in the market of physical retail and distribution, while growth in the e-commerce sector for us has been taking shape with the launch of a new category catering to the Indian men completely. These steps will help us reach a larger genre of people, creating more authentic pieces inspired by different Indian art forms.

She is hot, but also brainy!

She is sassy, but also creative!

She makes you weak at the knees, but she is humble!

Sneha AKA DJ Eshna, is a versatile character who’s been a model, a business person, a dancer and now eventually a DJ. A person full of positivity about life, she’s one of those people with whom when you start a conversation, you wish for it to never end.

Here’s all from our recent chit-chat, about life, music and more! 

SV: Hi Eshna, how are you? How would you present yourself to our audience?
ESH: I’m doing well, thanks. I’m an ordinary girl with an extraordinary vision towards life.

SV: Dancer, a model, engineer, business professional and now a DJ, is there anything you do not want to be?
ESH: Hahaha, I think there is a lot more to experiment yet. However, DJ-ing has proved out to be the love I was looking for.

SV: How did the transition happen from one profession to another?
ESH: Transition is the outcome of the search. I had been experimenting with various professions that involved music (like dance, modeling), which lead me to realize that music is an inseparable part of my life.

SV: Why music eventually?
ESH: It just hit me up one day, like out of nowhere. Shifting from the party animal audience in the club to the heart-controlling DJ behind the console. It was just meant to be.

You might also want to read: A Steaming Conversation With DJ Mew

SV: Out of all the genres that you play, which one is closest to your heart and why?
ESH: That’s a very difficult choice. I love every form of music rather music in very form. But when I’m spending time by myself Techno & Trance helps me unwind.

SV: What’s your favorite thing when it comes to playing for the audience? What is it that drives you!
ESH: That’s my favorite question! I love it when I have hundreds of beating hearts right in front of me, waiting to be taken away on an insane journey of music, energy & love.

It’s a beautiful feeling of being a part of this experience, it absolutely drives me every single time!

Also Read About: Ravishing DJ Olly Esse

SV: Has dancing and engineering contributed to your musical journey so far? If so, how?
ESH: Of course, it has! Dancing gave me an understanding of the rhythm, beats & feel of the music. However, engineering gave me the capabilities to understand the technical know-how of the hardware & software. Self-learning has been the key.

SV: What all festivals and major events have you been part of? How has been the experience?
ESH: DJ Eshna has been a part of –

Ø Electro Storm festival, Pondicherry – along with all the top national artists (Lost stories, Ma Faiza, etc. and Edward maya

Ø Sinhgad karandak, Pune – along with W&W

Ø Mahatma Gandhi Medical Campus – Pondicherry

Ø And many club crazy club gigs in Kolkata, Siliguri, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Gangtok, etc. 

Check Out: Who Are The Hottest Girls on Instagram

SV: What was the feeling like in the stomach when you were getting on stage for your first gig?
ESH: OMG! It was like an avalanche of emotions. I was nervous, happy & excited. Butterflies attacking my gut and I was in a different zone. Happens every single time I get on the console.

SV: Though it’s not related to music, I need to ask you about what is your style quotient? What are you most comfortable in?
ESH: Style is something that show cases your personality. Also, your outfit needs to be in sync with the vibe of the occasion. I usually find my comfort in a pair of jeans or shorts clubbed with a ganji or a tank top.

SV: Your take on www.stylerug.net
ESH: It’s a perfect platform for Style, Lifestyle & Entertainment. I definitely recommend it to all my fans & followers.

Want To Know Who Is The Hottest Nude Artist Of India: Read -Our Interview With – Priya Chakraborty

Quick Fire With DJ Eshna

• Place of birth: High School: Mount Carmel Convent High School, Pune
• Current Location: Pune
• I think my best physical feature is: Hair
• Men say my best physical feature is: Eyes
• Tattoos and what they mean: I have 2 tattoos. Planning on getting a few more done this year. I believe Tattoos are like the resemblance of your beliefs craved down on your body until you die.
• My best trait is: I’m very Soluble
• My worst habit is: Haha! Funny one, actually. I can fall asleep anytime – anywhere.
• The key to my heart is: Politeness.
• Compliment me on: Intelligence.
• The ­physical feature I like to show off: Collar bones
• The sexiest outfit I will wear in public: I think saree is very sexy to flaunt. But, nothing beats a sexy backless gown.

Interview Courtesy: Dineisda, A Rewant jain Venture

To most of the people, tattoos are just a random sign of someone being a rebel and not-so-conservative. But for some, tattoo(s), define their whole personality and the very essence of their self-being.

I came across Lisen’s profile on Instagram and was quite intrigued by her body full of brilliantly crafted tattoos. And out of curiosity, I sent her an email for a possible interview, to which she duly replied.

Here’s a brief chit-chat with one of the sexiest tattoo models that I have ever seen!

SV: How old were you when you got your first tattoo and what intrigued you about owning that first piece of ink?
MM: I think I was 18. I was in Airborne School at the time and at that time, beer and tattoos was what we did.

SV: What do you do for a living and how do your co-workers feel about your tattoos?
MM: My co-workers don’t mind them at all. In the businesses I work in, they’re generally acceptable.

SV: Can you give us a rundown of your excellent tattoo collection?
MM: Sure! I’ve got the words Second to None on my upper stomach, sleeved on both arms with candy, ray guns, pin-up girls, I have a My little pony on my shin and a gypsy on the other. I have 6-shooters on my back, two Alice in Wonderland pieces on both sides and a cute octopus and fish on my thigh.

My knuckles and upper knuckles are tattooed and I have little stars on my ears. Hopefully, I covered it all!

SV: Why Miss Mischief? What led you to this nickname?
MM: One of my friends actually gave that name to me a long time ago and it just sort of fit with my modelling.

SV: You are so well-known for your gorgeous style and of course, your trademark hair. How long have you been wearing it this way?
MM: I’ve had the blue hair for about 5 years. I’m going to be changing it within the next month because this colour is popping up everywhere! It’s time for a change anyway; hopefully, my fans will get on-board.

SR: How long have you been a model?
MM: I’ve been modelling for about 10 years

SR: What has your favourite photo shoot been thus far?
MM: I’ve had so many amazing photo-shoots it’s so hard to say. I love shooting with other models, and love shooting in water, so those styles definitely top my list.

SR: What modelling projects do you have coming up and where can readers see more of Miss Mischief?
MM: I have several publications coming out shortly, one of my favourites Tattoo’d Lifestyle Magazine. You can find me here: www.iammischief.com, www.facebook.com/modelmissmischief and/or email misschiefproductions@gmail.com.

SR: Do people recognize you often when you are out-and-about?
MM: When I’m in my own element, yes. Tattoo conventions, shows, events like that.

SV: There are many tattoo collectors who have added your pretty face to their skin. How does that make you feel knowing that your image is decorating someone’s body?
MM: It’s kinda cool knowing that someone wants to walk around with my face on them lol

SV: What has being a tattooed woman taught you: about society, yourself, and the idea of beauty?
MM: Beauty comes in all forms. I’ve learned that with all the time people on social media cut down others, they could spend that time lifting other people up and making them feel good. Hopefully, someday people will think about what they say about other people before hitting the enter button.

SV: Do you ever encounter criticism because of your ink? If so, how do you react?
MM: I do. Usually people don’t say it to me directly, they just stare lol. I usually just stare back until they get uncomfortable and look away. Best “in your face” ever lol

SV: What ink projects do you have coming up, and with which artists?
MM: I have a few projects that I’m working on with Fred Berthel and Robert Kane. They are both amazing tattoo artists.

SV: What are some of your other loves and hobbies?
MM: I like guns, sky diving, trying to skateboard (even though I suck) lol. Quarter sticks are always fun, blowing up random things in my yard, fire breathing, crafting/creating things, writing, singing, oh I could go on and on.

Quick Facts:
One word that b est describes you: Colorful 😉
One word that best describes your tattoo’s: Random
Your favourtire sweat treat: ooo so many. I’d have to say Reeses peanut butter cups.. yummmm

Infinait, a Dubai based ready to wear Men’s brand, recently introduced its AW17 range of men’s shirts. Inspired by colours, the brain behind the brand; Renuka Gandhi Undavia, aims to break the monotony of black, white and blue for men’s clothing.

Here’s what she talked with us in a one-on-one conversation.

SV: There is a nice mix of modernity and vintage ethos to your brand. How do you strike the balance and get the creative juices flowing?
RGU: Ideas flow when you least expect it. For me, it’s usually early mornings or late at night right before I sleep, I get a thought that works well. Also, while traveling, you get to explore different kinds of architects that have inspirational shapes, and colours. It’s also through classic movies that have beautiful costumes in them, The sources are many.

SV: What are the key points that you keep in mind while working on a 
collection?
RGU: I try not to produce anything that already exists in the market. I try and explore areas that are still not touched by many.

SV: What according to you is the USP of your brand?
RGU: Would be the variety and mix of colours available for men.

SV: What are the memories of your starting days? Share with us some 
good and untold memories!
RGU: It’s when you create some design when you are still a student, and see a similar one being showcased on fashion channel on TV, that always made us proud!

SV: Where all can people buy your clothes from?
RGU: Infinait.in, amazon.in, shopclues.com, limeroad.com

SV: What does future hold? What’s coming in next from you?
RGU: Aim is to be able to add more fun, colours, and convenience and comfort to men’s wear clothing.

SV: Last, but not the least! Any advice for the budding men’s fashion designers, and aspiring fashionistas on how to improvise their wardrobe?
RGU: I would say, always be open to experimenting with new styles and colours.
– Take pride in, and support home-grown artists.
– follow your instincts; they are your best guide.

Custom-made! Does this word ring any bell to you?

It should! Because, no more it is a hard-to-find-service for men in India!

With increasing awareness about men’s fashion; brands and designers alike, have taken it upon themselves to make sure that they can feed the need of the market.

One such similar brand is Threads & Shirts, a modernist made to measure concept, by Anisha Chaudhary. Threads & Shirts is all about bringing together a delicate combination of exquisite fabrics and a meticulous construction process that can help the men of today uplift the feel and look of their wardrobe.

We got a chance to talk to Anisha Chaudhary, the brain behind the brand. Here is the excerpt.

SV: Tell us a bit more about the brand. How did it origin and how was the idea conceived?
AC: Threads & Shirts is a custom-made shirt brand. As a modernist tailoring concept, we try re-inventing the old traditional art of tailoring.

Our concept was born out of pure passion for handcrafted tailored shirts, bringing a fresh sense of fashion and an impeccable fit for our clients.

SV: Why name it Thread and shirts? Any specific reason?
AC: Threads & Shirts is a tribute to quintessential tailored sensibilities, blending in a perfect balance of contemporary designs, material, and craftsmanship.

Threads & Shirts are synonymous to each other, as the two main components of a shirt are: threads and fabrics. We try going down to the basics of shirt-making and work-up to a level of perfection.

We do believe our brand name suggests the same.

SV: Tell us a bit about you… your background and how did you venture into the Indian fashion industry?
AC: I was always passionate about shirt-making and dressing dapperly. Being a part of the corporate world dressing to perfection was an absolute requirement.

With the limitations in the corporate clothing aspect, I realized that there was a huge vacuum in this field and I could combine my two passions, which is fashion and finance, to create my own custom-made shirt brand.

SV: There are designers who just supervise and then there are those who get involved in the nitty-gritty of things… which one are you? In simple words, how deeply are you involved in the whole process of creating the final product?
AC: Fashion and style play a very key role in the custom made shirt business, even though we have a style your self- model.

Our clients tend to look for certain advice when it comes to the new trends and styles etc. I personally, see a lot of clients to try out different experimental looks and there are a few others who like to go with the more classical approach.

We do believe we cater to both those approaches by studying the client likes and preferences. Also, the aspect of our shirts being handcrafted requires special attention from our stylists and in-house tailors.

SV: Men of India still seem to be struggling (comparatively) when it comes to keeping their wardrobe at sync with international consumers. What do you think is (are) the reasons behind it. What can be done from their side to change it for better?
AC: We do believe Indian men are becoming more aware of style and fashion than they were, say, a decade ago.

Indian men, unlike women, have always felt like they had a limited choice in corporate wear, casual wear etc. At Threads & Shirts, we provide them the right guidance and assistance when it comes to styling and dressing correctly.

Our in-house fashion stylists are well-trained professionals, who help create a client profile according to their preferences like colors, styles etc.

SV: Why choose bespoke? Why not go for Read-To-Wear and be done with the selling? You like working hard, not smart?
AC: Threads & Shirts is a purely custom-made concept as we try to solve the basic readymade shirt problems, which a lot of clients face.

For example, when a clients fits perfectly into a standard medium sized shirt but doesn’t appreciate the styling it comes with, like the collar, cuff etc we make sure that we solve these problems, as we do realize that custom-made shirts aren’t only about the fitting or style, but perfection.

To be more specialized in the shirt-making field, we have devised an extensive customer styling and fitting form which allows you to choose from up-to 300 fabrics from the top 5 mills of the world and also style your shirts with options ranging from cuffs, collars, personalized monograms etc.

SV: What were the challenges that you had to face or are facing to create your own audience? And what role do you think social media influencers and digital media can play in creating a reach for a brand like yours?
AC: Threads & Shirts being an innovative concept did initially face a huge challenge in being able to create the right kind of brand awareness.

As we believe in providing a shirt experience and not just selling a mundane product, the uniqueness of our process had to be conveyed correctly.

Social Media does play a vital role in promoting, not only start-up companies but also established ones, same is with influencers who can help brands reach the right target audience.

SV: Last, but not the least, your take on www.stylerug.net?
AC: Stylerug being one of the top publications focused on menswear, is doing a brilliant job at giving their views into men’s fashion, styling, and grooming.

Olly Esse, a ‘music-bomb‘ from Italy is one of the finest female DJs going around. For the last 10 years, she has been destroying the decks globally in some of the leading music festivals and clubs. And having shared the stage with artists like Nari Milani, Cristian Marchi, Bob Sinclar and Robin Schulz to name a few, she thinks she is just getting started.

Here’s an ‘exclusive‘ candid conversation with this ravishing girl, who can make any guy go weak at knees.

SV: Could you please tell us our reader a bit about you! A little background!
OE: Hi, I’m Olly. I’m from Italy and I started my career in show-biz industry at the age of 18. It was actually easy for me as I am from Milano.

I’ve graduated as a criminal psychologist (don’t be surprised) and two years ago I decided to settle in India; a choice I am very happy about.

SV: And how did music happen in life?
OE: I discovered my way of life at the age of 20 when I started to date a DJ, and once I touched a console- it was done!

I had that feeling in my heart telling me that it was my love. I bought my own console and started to try it out with CDs which I play till now.  I don’t use a computer or any other tools. For the last 12 years, I’ve been traveling the world doing what I adore and am in love with.

SV: What all festivals and major events have you been part of? How has been the experience? 
OE: In India, I’ve been working with brands like Supersonic and Sunburn. I have also played in countries like Poland, Tunis, Morocco, Indonesia, Jordan, Qatar etc.

However, I’m very happy to be here in India, and I think I’m in the right place at the right time

SV: What all genres do you play? Do you produce too?
OE: I mostly play Melbourne bounce; it’s electronic genre. Not that popular, but I’m promoting it with all my heart.

I’ve also done my own collaborations and productions, mashups etc.

It takes a lot of time. but I’m doing it with patience and pleasure at the same time.

SV: What was the feeling like in the stomach when you were getting on stage for your first gig?
OE: I can’t believe that I still get nervous every time I have to go on the stage, even after so many years. After all, being a DJ is not that easy.

It’s about building a connection with the audience in no time and entertaining them.

Everything should be perfect from my side and that’s why all this pressure. I take my work very seriously and care about how people will react and that’s why I’m always excited, be it a club gig or a festival.

In the end, it’s a show business, thousands of people are watching you.

SV: You have absolutely heart­breaking looks. Do you work as a model too besides being a DJ?
OE: I’m also or call it still into modeling. I’m surprised that I haven’t aged that much, as people here still call me Didi. I would kill myself if I would be called aunty… Hahaha!

I appreciate that after all these years, I am still enjoying posing for photographers and I’m very satisfied with every collaboration.

SV: Though it’s not related to music, I need to ask you about what is your style quotient? What are you most comfortable in?
OE: I dress casually most of the times. For me, less is more!

I don’t wear jewelry, I put very little make-up, and wear no accessories.  However, I go crazy about perfumes,  they are my weakness.

SV: Your take on www.stylerug.net 
OE: It’s made in a very western style and it is interesting to take a look at, even if the topic might not be of your picking.

I think it’s built with a very good taste, and the content is totally different from others.

You have a perfect balance of information and style!

Quick Fire

Birth Place: Milano
Current Location: Mumbai
I think my best physical feature is: My back
Men say my best physical feature is: Booty and waist
I would have sex with a guy on the first date, only if: He would be a real gentleman and amazingly handsome

Tattoos and what they mean: Long story… I just want to say that by the age of 40 I plan to be all tattooed
My best trait is: Yet to discover
My worst habit is: I love to sleep and spend time in my bed
The key to my heart is: lots of flowers and small attentions.
Compliment me on: my Deadlift form
Pet name for my boobs: I touch them, but I don’t name them Hahaha
Most important rule or rules of bedroom etiquette: No rule game
The ­physical feature I like to show off: My squat booty
The sexiest outfit I will wear in public: Skin tight dress

The sexiest thing I will wear in the bedroom: My favorite perfume
A superficial thing I am attracted to: Spa treatments…  I could spend years there
My favorite physical feature on a man: He has to be fit – no chicken legs, beard is sexy
My favorite trait in a man: Kindness
A man will impress me if: He will be humble and bring flowers on the first date
A man will turn me off if: Cocky, rude,  macho style is not for me, bad boys are passe
The simplest thing you can do to make me happy is: Bring me French fries and iced tea
I will not even give you a second look if: You are dressed in super skinny jeans or leggings in gym
I will sleep with you when: I will be ready
I will never sleep with you if: You snore hahaha and guy’s scent is important
I am the ideal woman because: OMG no, never will be and never aspire to be
I am the best in the world at: Making my friends laugh
I need a man who will: Be himself and enjoy my company
My philosophy of love: I prefer a mix of good friendship and total madness in bed

2017 has been a year full interesting events.

From Donald Trump becoming the President of the United States to Virat Kohli abandoning the endorsement of Pepsi and fairness creams, it’s all happening.

But, what has got us hooked are the hot girls of Instagram.

While there has always been a list of hot female models/personalities from the west, we think it was only fair to make a list of our own home-grown girls.

And because modern technology can be a wonderful thing, we’ve done all the hard work for you.

Take a look.

💊

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A post shared by Alanna Panday (@alannapanday) on Aug 16, 2017 at 7:03pm PDT

In desperate need of a whole body massage, days of sleep, & a ticket to the Bahamas

A post shared by Prerna Kumar (@prernaakumar) on Jan 26, 2017 at 8:07am PST

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I put you in a win-win situation and you still lost. Top- @yoinscollection

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A post shared by Ruma Sharma (@rumasharmaa) on Aug 20, 2017 at 11:22pm PDT

Some women fear the fire, Some simply become it.🔥 #khaleesi #stateofmind 📸 – @akashjadhavphotography

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You’ve got a hold on me,you’re like a wasted dream.

A post shared by Monica Thukral (@monica.thukral) on Aug 22, 2017 at 12:03am PDT

The more you act like a Lady 💖 The more he will act like a Gentleman 🖤 . . . . . . . #BrownIsBeautiful #LoveYourCurves #LoveYourself #longhair #ScarlettMRose #scarlettrosestyle #picoftheday #indianblogger #indianfashionblogger #luxuryblog #luxuryblogger #instagood #inspo #fashionblogger #fashion #Curves #influencer #legs #legsfordays #photographer #styleblogger #blog #blogger #trending #fashiongram #TravelTheWorldWithScarlettRose #travelblogger #ootd #TravelBlogger . . .Photo Credits : @utsi_ @utsavpatelphotography 📸 . . . . Let me know if you like This look 😍 . @scarlettmrose 💎❤️

A post shared by Scarlett Rose (@scarlettmrose) on Jul 27, 2017 at 5:07am PDT

Its so important to protect your phone , isn’t it🤓 Crushing over @oyestuff collection of latest and beautiful phone cases which are protective as well🤗 Just check their collection 😍 Thankyou for this one @oyestuff ❣️ PC: @iamgauravjain 🤓 . . #phonecover #instagram #ig #iglover #iglovers #fashion #fashionblogger #travel #gown #followme #followers #followtrain #followforlike #styledotme #instadaily #instafamous #popxodaily #sdm #sdmdaily #instafollow #delhi #delhigram #delhigrammer #fashiongram #like4like #thesylvianedge

A post shared by BHAVYA MONGA👑| BLOGGER (@iambhavyamonga) on Aug 21, 2017 at 7:24am PDT

In a country where the scuba diving market is set to grow at a figure of 40% YoY, West Coast Adventures offers some of the best under-water experiences that are led by a group of skilled and passionate instructors.

With centers across Murdeshwar, Goa, and Mumbai, West Coast Adventures’ centers have instructors that are certified by PADI & SSI (which are the world leaders in Scuba Diving Education & Certification for instructors and dive centers), who ensure that every diving experience is safe and secure.

Here’s an interaction with the CEO, Pawan Shourie

SV: How long has your company been in business? In what area of the world/activity do you specialise?

PS: We commenced operations in 2013 at a coastal town in Karnataka called Murdeshwar. After that, we began operations in Goa and this year we opened our first in-land dive centre in Mumbai.

We provide SCUBA diving services which range from introductory dives for someone who has never experienced SCUBA before, to training and certifying students. Since WCA is certified by both PADI & SSI (the market leaders in training & certifying instructors & dive centres) our PADI/SSI certifications are valid worldwide.

We have also catered to special requests such as wedding proposals underwater and assisting to create underwater world records.

SV: What have the highlights and challenges been during your tenure at West Coast?

PS: Coming from an experiential marketing background, the adventure sports space was completely new for me.

In the past, I was used to dealing with corporates and working in a more or less structured environment, the dive centre environment is very laid back and focuses on fun, I love it. You get to know people from all over the world with diverse backgrounds and interesting stories.

But the highlight for me is to see the expression on someone’s face who has just had their first SCUBA experience, what a thrill.

I think two of the biggest challenges that I’ve faced is firstly the whole process of acquiring permissions from multiple bodies whose jurisdiction you fall under while setting up operations.

Secondly, the perception that safety standards followed by all the dive centers are sub-standard. This is not true, in-fact WCA safety standards are at par with the best in the world.

We encourage our guests to check on our certificates and reviews so that it becomes a practice even when they go to other dive centers anywhere in the world.

SV: What is Your Vision for the Scuba diving activity in India?

PS: At West Coast Adventure, we want to make SCUBA diving affordable and accessible to everybody, to introduce the maximum people to the beauties of the underwater world because even though it is the same planet, it’s a completely different world.

Therefore the WCA tagline ‘Same Planet… Different world’

SV: What is your price structure and what is included in this price?

PS:  Different locations have different price structures and offerings. Experiences start from as low as Rs.3500/-, you can check our website for details www.westcoastadventures.in

SV: What makes you different from any other scuba diving company?

PS: We provide our guests with a fun and thrilling experience while maintaining the highest safety standards. But our true differentiator is “our instructors”, they are experienced, passionate & fun and therefore are able to provide an unforgettable experience for our guests.

SV: Can you briefly tell us about the safety measures your company undertakes?

PS: We maintain safety equipment at our offices and on our boats. All of our staff and support staff trained emergency first responders and regularly conduct mock drills for different situations.

We ideally try and maintain a one is to one ratio between the guest and instructor, therefore the guest can be assured that he has the instructor’s complete attention.

SV: What is the best season to indulge in this activity?

PS: The diving season for Goa & Murdeshwar is from October to May and since Mumbai is an in-land dive center, where we operate throughout the year.

SV: How do you maintain a work/life balance?

PS:  During the season from October to May I move between Mumbai, Goa & Murdeshwar. The rest of the year I’m either in Mumbai or on holiday somewhere. I don’t think about WCA as work it’s a hobby that I really enjoy so work-fun-life balance is maintained.

SV: What do you want West Coast to accomplish in the next year?

PS: Our primary objectives for this year are to increase visibility and further improve operations. We are also constantly on the lookout for new opportunities and locations, so if one of those come our way we will grab it.

SV: What is your commitment to responsible tourism or ecotourism?

PS: We have a very simple policy, we don’t take anything out or put anything in the ocean that doesn’t belong there. We don’t allow our guests to throw anything into the ocean and they are not allowed to take back anything from the ocean not even smallest of shells.

SV: What is your commitment to local conservation? Do you work to protect fragile ecosystems?

PS: We try and do our bit one dive at a time. You will notice that when our instructors come up from a dive they always have something in their pockets, could be a plastic bottle or a wrapper or just some junk that has been carelessly thrown into the ocean.

These are then disposed-off in the correct manner. We do ocean bed clean-up drives around our dive sites on a regular basis. We are also part of Project Aware that is a global movement of scuba divers protecting our ocean planet.

THE BEER CAFÉ recently launched its ‘WE DON’T SCREW YOUR BREW’ campaign.

This is an intensive educative campaign under the banner to raise awareness about the importance of high-quality water for the world’s most favorite beverage; BEER!

I got a chance to interact with the CEO and Founder of The Beer Café – Rahul Singh, who talked with me at length about the campaign and much more!

Take a read!

SV: Tell us, why do you think there was a need to initiate this campaign? What was the motive behind it?
RS: Largely consumers are unaware about the importance of water for a good beer. Unsurprisingly, the best of beer brands often hail from countries like Belgium, Australia, United Kingdom, Austria, Italy, Sweden, Norway, and France.

The reason is these countries have the highest water quality index in the world. The most famous breweries are typically located near natural sources of fresh water. Hence the brews are delicious.

With our latest campaign, ‘We Don’t Screw Your Brew’ campaign”, an intensive educative campaign, we want to raise greater awareness about the importance of high-quality water for the world’s most favorite beverage

Off lately, hobbies and interests have given wings to microbreweries and home-grown beer brands across the length and breadth of the country. Small production houses are set up, semi qualified, under trained people take up the responsibility of making brews. Protocols, hygiene, ingredients, recipes and maturation process are often not adhered too. The final output; sub-standard brews at a very nominal price. For the price sensitive Indian customer, gallons of beer worth pennies is the ultimate gratification.

We at The Beer Café, pride ourselves at being the beer destination for our patrons, who trust and enjoy our extensive selection of premium beer brands from around the world. This unique proposition is enabled by our in-depth understanding of how wonderful beers are made.

SV: How does a normal consumer like me, differentiate, whether the beer is properly brewed or not? As in, the water used was of high quality or not!
RS: Water plays a very big a very big role in the brewing process of beer. Water, grain, hops, and yeast are the 4 basic ingredients that go into making beer. Just like creating a recipe, its specific combination determines the style, strength, and sapidity of the drink. This isn’t simply something that comes from the tap or underground source. The composition – whether it’s hard, soft, level of sulfites, calcium, magnesium and other minerals – affect the final drink. Even well educated, traveled and aware customers fall prey to this. Thank god for there is The Beer Café around, they don’t need to worry about that nightmare scenario. Having brought more than 50 premium international brands from over 20 countries

For a normal customer, who just wants to gulp his beers, it’s next to impossible to figure out if the water used is pure or not. The hangover, headache, and nausea the next day is a sure shot indicator!

SV: What needs to be kept in mind that the consumer is getting the best possible brewed beer. After all, he is paying for something and there is a moral responsibility not only on the brands that make the beer but also on the ones who sell it- like The Beer Café!
RS: The Beer Cafe is India’s fastest, largest and most awarded alco-beverage chain serving more than 50 premium beers across 20 countries. Adding to the campaign, what makes the brand different is the beer-ritual that is adhered to. Every pint is treated with utmost care and kept in chillers 24×7 irrespective of the outlet is operational or not. The temperature for each beer is carefully monitored as well. The servers undergo a rigorous training program and receive a ‘beer champ’ certificate from industry leaders. Smallest of the details like the glassware, a perfect pour and expiry dates of the beers are taken care of. We serve over 1 million customers every year, and these aspects are never compromised upon.

SV: And what kind of planning goes in terms of deciding the look and feel of the place. If I am not wrong, the idea is to make it casual yet lively, to have a relaxed ambience?
RS: The Beer Cafe has light and cheery ambience, easy couches, quirky artifacts, and tastefully done interiors. It is also a delight for music buffs across the country playing from billboard hits to peppy chartbusters, from classic rock to thriving live band performances. Just like beer Beer isn’t pretentious, it is an age old unifier, that transcends culture and class to bring people together – be it friends who want to catch a game, a manager who wants to applaud the team’s win or a family looking to unwind over light-hearted banter. Every pint is a celebration. And that’s what The Beer Café is all about – discovering an unconditional #LoveForBeer and letting it take over.

SV: What do you think makes The Beer Café a loved brand in the market? I strongly believe you guys do have a lot of loyal consumers – what’s the secret?
RS: What beer does for your spirits, The Beer Café does for your soul.

The vision to stimulate communities towards a fun and responsible drinking culture, Its legacy of innovation can be seen in the way The Beer Café has been redefining the ‘beering’ experience in the country. There’s always something to look forward to; the PYOB technology, virtual bar, loyalty app or gigs; than just the vast portfolio of the beer brand available.

SV: What are the future plans for you and for The Beer Café? What more can we expect?
RS: Having achieved profitability, The Beer Café is now looking to enhance its pan-India footprint and further consolidate its position as the category leader in the $7.1 billion Indian beer market by rapidly expanding its operational scale. The brand is looking to add to its current array of 40 outlets across 12 cities, targeting 150 operational outlets by 2022. The Beer Cafe now plans to launch its services on a global level and is looking to soon introduce its own brand of beer. If all this isn’t adequate to raise the spirits of beer-lovers, what is?

SV: Besides the water quality issue in our country (compared to the others), what do you think are the fundamental issues/problems that breweries face/neglect in the current market of India.
RS :Craft beer is catching on but high taxes and complex regulations complicate business. Microbreweries are allowed in cities like Mumbai, Bengalur, and Gurugram, but not Delhi despite the municipal government promising the licensing. Selling offsite is all the more hassle, with each bottle to be marked with a barcode. Many consignments are wasted in seeking logistic approvals and sanctions.

SV: Coming to The Beer Café, what were/are the challenges that you first faced and still face when you decide or explore to open a new joint?
RS: Law of the land!

My pet Peeve. Starting with our own constitution which seeks for complete prohibition across the nation and allows each state to govern their own policy for social development and control of alcohol use for non-medicinal purpose.

So, there is no central control over the sale and consumption of liquor. And, each state has a free hand to adopt a policy linked to archaic acts. These acts (like the Punjab excise act 1914 or the Bombay prohibition act 1949) are toned in colonial-era paternalism, which sees the state as the ultimate arbiter of what’s fit for the citizens of that state.

So, if Gujrat has total prohibition and Bihar has gone dry recently to a Karnataka which is fining bars for not selling the minimum prescribed amount of liquor bottles.

More so, Beer and Wine is identified as agri products in most countries and WHO prescribes use of these low on alcohol beverages to wean people away from distilled hard spirits/liquor. In India, the state excise is a revenue department which must fill their exchequer, and prefer to push high on alcohol beverages to drive more revenues.

For a coffee chain, rollout is rather quick. Get an online tax ID, FSSAI number and open the doors. We go through 20-30 licenses/approvals before serving the first pint. On one hand we are celebrating the startup mindset of new India and talking about one window and ease of doing business. And for sure, this noise gets lost when you deal with a morally touch me not product like alco-beverage. Red tapism is rampant and we have outlets where we never got a license and had to shut the place down. Though we are a café format, we need to comply to the highest standards of a restaurant as that’s what the policies state.

How do I overcome – whenever I am bogged down, apart from having a real cold beer before sleeping I rationalize myself by seeing this as the entry barrier to our sector. Kind of a moat which doesn’t allow many players to enter the sector. And keep our enterprise in the fore front. We have 33 outlets operational and 12 under fit outs. The nearest competition has 15 outlets and they started their first outlet in 1996. We began 3 years back!

People

Being a service sector, we work on the mantra of people first, customer second. A happy server will make the customer happy. Our concept is experience oriented and the team serving the customers need to have the passion to live the brand and knowledge of the product. Unlike QSRs, where we don’t really care who’s behind the counter as we just take our burger and go. At a place to drink, the eye –contact and familiarity with the staff/bartender is key.

Attrition levels are high in our industry, and training new ones and re-training existing ones is a constant task. We also have a zero tolerance policy for misconduct and integrity issues. And had to let a lot of team members including really key and talented ones go due to this reason.

At the moment, with a headcount of 650 and having 50 more join us every month, we have been able to overcome some of the challenge by sharing the ownership of the company and rewarding the financial success with the team by having a clear connection between their contributions and the growing value of our company. So, we have an ESOP to each and every employee, company wide from the top most executive to the house keeping crew.

So, now they are all creating their own value. I don’t know of any company in the Indian food service industry which has attempted such a robust stock option plan as ours. Nobody is an employee now, they are all “Partners”.

Real estate

Biggest paradox. We have third world sales and first world rentals. Our business is dependent on location, location, location. And the demand outstrips quality supply. So, what we have is the same catchment being chased by everyone – from banks, clothing outlet to restaurants. This increases the cost of rents and makes the outlet level metrics unviable. Worldwide benchmark is below 10% of revenues for the cost of occupancy. Here, its in the range of 20-30%.

I spend a lot of time doing recce of areas where we have to open. Beat my head with landlords who only see money as the motivator, and takes a lot of time and energy convincing them to sign us up.

As the brand gets traction and the goodwill spreads, we are now getting better at it and real estate agents and organized malls/hubs are making us part of their zoning. But, this challenge remains one of the biggest for us

His acting career started with Imtiaz Ali’s Rockstar and soon the list had names like Love Express, Jo Dooba So Paar, Myoho, Once Upon a Time in Mumbai, Two States, Karle Pyar Karle, Bezubaan Ishq and Wedding Pulav.

Then we saw him impressing us with his acting skills in Befikre- sharing the screen with Ranveer Singh!

In simple words, Aru K Verma, is on a roll and riding the tides high.

Recently I got a chance to interact with this versatile actor who also happens to be one of the top plus size models in the country.

Take a read!

SV: Five years since Rockstar, how has been the journey so far?
AKV: The journey has been exactly how life has been so far. It has had its ups and downs, but the important thing is that it all stayed. Thanks to the relentless perseverance of my family to push me towards becoming what I am today.

At the start, I was asked this question in a Yash Raj Audition; ‘where do you see yourself in five years’? I said “I want to be someone I am proud of when I look back at those 5 years”, and I am glad it turned somewhat around that vision only

SV: How difficult or rather adventurous, the journey of being a plus size model and then becoming an actor?
AKV: I was actually an actor first and then a plus size model. I have been acting since 2009, while I started modeling only in 2015. It has been an adventurous journey and every adventure that is easy; is not an adventure at all.

You start to question yourself sometimes, sometimes people question your ability and your looks. They mock you, they demean you, but you have to respect what you are and just keep on going and move on. I believe that’s the name of the game anyways.

SV: How did people react, when you decided to become a model/actor?
AKV: I don’t know about people because I didn’t tell anyone except my family, my Mom, Dad, sister, Chote Mamu and his family that’s it. But, the best reaction was from my Dad. When he came to know that I want to become an actor he just looked me straight in the eye with a confused look saying “Kyun, tumne Nachaniya banna hai?”

I didn’t have an answer for him then, but without a shadow of a doubt. he is the pillar of my existence. My mom has never stopped me for anything, but been there like my backbone always, and my younger sister just believes in me, in a way that her brother can practically do anything. I just try to keep up to their expectations.

SV: You have been a model, also been on TV, then on the silver screen… what is your preference…if you had to pick one.. and why?
AKV: All are mediums of being an actor. I don’t have any preference till the time it excites me and every day I want to get up to go to work and do something new.

Unfortunately, TV in India is a little monotonous, but you find your ways to make peace with that, by trying to bring something new to the character over time you play it. I would, however, pick films if I had to because the journey of the character is much faster than in television.

SV: How would you define yourself as a person and as an actor? I somehow feel that you are inclined towards comedy… am I wrong to think that?
AKV: Sorry to say but in this case ‘totally wrong’. I used to hate comedy. I still think it is the most difficult job in the world to do. However, I started enjoying it with the TV show “It’s Complicated” for Channel V. It actually taught me a lot.

In order to understand the medium you are catering to, the audience and what works when and where- you need to give it all, and that is what comedy demands.

I would literally kill to do negative roles, as I think I can create something that I am not. To answer how I am in person “Well I would just like to say that I like being deceptive to the environment around me. I am actually an introvert, but a publicly extrovert person. I would talk about myself, but not what exactly what I am feeling or saying.

SV: Delhi vs Mumbai… what makes the two places different? Is it really taxing on one once they shift?
AKV: This is the question that I have been asked a lot, and I always have one answer; Mumbai has made me what I am and Delhi gave me the strength to handle and be what I wanted to be. So, I can’t live without any of them. One is the heart, while the other is the soul of India.

SV: How was your experience working with Ranveer Singh in Befikre… as an actor, what do you take from him on the sets?
AKV: I’ll like to sum working with Ranveer Singh in just one word- Energy!

It takes a toll on you as a co-actor to actually match his level day in and day out, and even as a person the respect he has for the craft is absolutely commendable. We used to rehearse a lot before the scenes, but it always was so spontaneous in the take that it would be just fun.

SV: I have to ask you this, your smile seems pretty infectious… are you one of those lady-killer types?
AKV: Well that’s a first! But, fortunately, or unfortunately I am not. I have a set of few friends and I like to keep it that way. My trusted circle is small and it takes me some time to open up with people. But, I am a good listener and I don’t want to be modest about it.

I love to treat people with respect and I adore the ones who are self-made and ambitious. You learn a lot from these people.

SV: Talk us about your love life… is there one? If yes, then share your story… if not then what kind of woman would make you fall in love with her?
AKV: Hahahaha, there have been a few ups and downs, but not the ONE yet. My love life is based around my business and my acting career, and I know it sounds boring, but that’s the way it is for me. I confess I am a workaholic!

For me, the most important factor that I would like to see in the woman I love is that she needs to be intelligent and more ambitious than me. And one thing that I can’t live without is how the hair should fall upon the face while she is talking. Can’t live without that!

SV: What can we expect from you in the future? What kind of roles would you want to leave your mark with?
AKV: As I said earlier, I want to look back and be proud of myself. I think there is no greater legacy than a life lived to be something in your own eyes, rather than someone else. You should have no regrets when the time comes to say goodbye.

SV: Last, but not the least, your take on www.stylerug.net
AKV: I started reading StyleRug when a friend shared an article and I remember it clearly because I haven’t read anything like that ever. Things to learn from gays!

It was very professionally written and not profound at all. It was just what it was supposed to be. I can’t say I am an avid reader, but I liked the way the content was presented because it gave you a sense of professionalism at the same time a platform to say things freely. I hope that this becomes much bigger than it already is.