• The Flour Works, Pune
• Cat Café Studio, Mumbai
• Green Theory, Bangalore
• Puppychino Café, Delhi
• The Love Room, Kolkata
• Craveyard Café, Chennai

The Flour Works, Pune

Started by restaurateur Meeta Makecha, this cute café is situated in Kalyani Nagar, Pune. They’re known for their delish breakfast items but the highlight of this eatery is #FurryFridays where they encourage their visitors to bring their furry friends along! They also make sure to post their #FurryFriday updates on Instagram to remind people to get their pooches! They also offer a variety of discounts, so you’re definitely in for a treat at this pet-friendly eatery!

Cat Café Studio, Mumbai

Situated in Versova, this place is a feline lover’s paradise. Their primary objective being “Rescue. Care. Love. Adopt” the café is full of rescue cats chilling together in a massive space which has an eatery attached to it. This place is also home to some really adorable Indie dogs! Known for hosting acoustic music gigs and comedy gigs from time to time, you will also get to play some fun board games or probably read a book!

Green Theory, Bangalore

Quaint and pretty would be the best terms to describe this pet-friendly eatery situated in Richmond town, Bangalore. It’s known for its organic food and looks gorgeous in the evenings with all the fairy lights! Definitely the kind of place your pets would love to visit!

Puppychino Café, Delhi

If you’re a dog lover, you have to visit this café situated in Shahpur Jat, New Delhi. They also have an exclusive dog menu and fun merchandise that you can shop! This is the ultimate stress buster where you can play with a lot of dogs and eat yummy food! Literally the two things everyone needs to be happy. This pet-friendly eatery is a must visit!

The Love Room, Kolkata

This is Kolkata’s first pet-friendly eatery, started by two animal lovers, Ankush and Shruti. Just like Puppychino, these guys have a special menu curated just for the pets! This café is home to some adorable fur balls and you can bring your pets and everyone can hang together. We love this pet-friendly eatery that gives us such good vibes!

Craveyard Café, Chennai

This cozy, cute pet-friendly eatery from Chennai will uplift your mood, no matter how bad a day you had! We love the colour scheme and the decor too. The café has an open space for your dogs to run around and have a good time while you meet your cravings with some scrumptious food that they serve! So head there today with your fur baby if you haven’t gone there already!

So that was a roundup of some of our favourite pet-friendly eateries in India, amongst the many! Do pay them a visit for a feel good time.

Image Credits: Campustimepune.com, Tripadvisor.com, vegan-india.blogspot.in, Lbb.in, scoopwhoop.com, hungryforever.com

• 1. Bhaag Milkha Bhaag
• 2. The Dirty Picture
• 3. Paan Singh Tomar
• Mary Kom" title="4. Mary Kom" >4. Mary Kom
• 5. Neerja
• Padmavati" title="6. Padmavati" >6. Padmavati

1. Bhaag Milkha Bhaag

The 2013 biographical sports drama film based on the life of Milkha Singh, an Indian athlete. He was a national champion runner and an Olympian. The movie was directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, and the script was by Prasoon Joshi.

Farhan Akhtar, who portrayed the role of Mikha Singh did a fabulous job. People fell in love with him, after this movie. Apart from a host of Filmfare and IIFA awards, this one also won a National Award! Watch this for your fix of adrenaline and serotonin-inducing moments of sportsmanship, patriotism and beautiful music.

2. The Dirty Picture

This super-hit biopic on the life of late south Indian actress Silk Smitha by the director, Milan Luthria brings back a bygone era of the film industry. Vidya Balan stole the show in this movie, with her surreal acting prowess. You begin by empathizing with the character and then move on to loath her, pity her, root for her, and love her all at the same time! The movie bagged over a dozen awards, including the Filmfare, IIFA and the Guild.

3. Paan Singh Tomar

This 2012 film by Tigmanshu Dhulia is based on the life story of the athlete, Paan Singh Tomar. It’s a poignant story of the athlete who wins a gold medal at the Indian National Games and then goes on to become a bandit, owing to strife-ridden circumstances. Irrfan Khan is stellar as always, and bagged a National Award for this movie. The movie was a box-office super hit, and it also won a National Award for the Best Feature Film of 2012.

4. Mary Kom

Mary Kom" title="4. Mary Kom" width="600" height="400" >

This 2014 sports biopic was directed by Omung Kumar and produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. In this movie, Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra plays the role of the 2008 World Boxing championship winner, Mary Kom. The movie depicts Mary Kom’s journey of becoming a boxer and then shows her victory at the World Boxing Championship. This brilliant movie won a National Award and a Filmfare as well.

5. Neerja

This 2016 movie is based on the life of 22-year-old Neerja Bhanot, a flight attendant of the Pan Am 73 plane, which was hijacked in Karachi in 1986. The role was wonderfully portrayed by Sonam Kapoor, and the movie was directed by Ram Madhavan. Acclaimed actors like Shabana Azmi, Kavi Shastri, Shekhar Ravijiani, Yogendra Tiku and Saad Erhaan put out a splendid performance in their respective supporting roles. The movie depicts the story of courageous Neerja who sacrificed her life while protecting the lives of 359 passengers who were on the hijacked plane. An altogether great film, this one bagged quite a few Filmfare awards and even a National award, that is the Special Jury Award, this year.

6. Padmavati

Padmavati" title="6. Padmavati" width="600" height="400" >

This upcoming movie is a period drama directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali is based on the life of Rani Padmini, a legendary Hindu Rajput queen and the wife of Rana Rawal Ratan Singh, the Rajput ruler of Mewar. The film features Deepika Padukone in the title role as Rani Padmini and portrays the story of sieges and wars that took place because powerful men enamoured by her beauty, wanted to capture her. The movie is slated to release in December 2017. We know which movie we are definitely watching in December. Can’t wait!

Now that you are armed with this epic list of biopics, stock up on some munchies, get into those comfortable shorts, and have wonderful movie marathon evenings!

Image credits: deccanchronicle, glamsham, bollywoodlife, moviehdwallpapers, and i.ytimg

• 1. A multi-starrer cast
• 2. A legendary director
• 3. Deepika’s royal attire
• Shahid Kapoor’s Warrior Avatar" title="4. Shahid Kapoor’s Warrior Avatar" >4. Shahid Kapoor’s Warrior Avatar
• Ranveer Singh as the anti-hero" title="5. Ranveer Singh as the anti-hero" >5. Ranveer Singh as the anti-hero
• 6. An exorbitant budget and amazing visual effects

1. A multi-starrer cast

We all know what to expect from a Ranveer- Deepika starrer film…drama, action and unparalleled chemistry. This on-screen favourite couple is now making a comeback in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Padmaavat but not quite as lovers this time.  And if that wasn’t exciting enough, add Shahid Kapoor to this good-looking mix. We think it makes for one helluva interesting triangle… don’t you agree?

2. A legendary director

If there’s one thing Sanjay Leela Bhansali is known for, it’s making films that are larger than life. The sets of his films are just as elaborate and extravagant as the stories he tries to replicate. And from the looks of it, he’s outdone himself this time. The sneak peeks of Padmaavat reveal some of the most mesmerizing sets Indian cinema has ever seen and it’s left us all awestruck. And that was just a glimpse so we can hardly wait to see the rest!

3. Deepika’s royal attire

Deepika Padukone is the center of attention in this movie; playing the role of Rani Padmini. We’ve seen her look like absolute royalty in Bajirao Mastani, but this one’s a whole new level…hands down her most glamorous avatar yet. Deepika is sporting heavy and intricately designed traditional jewelry like matha pattis, maang teekas, jhumkas…the works, and is dressed in the finest Rajasthani zardozi lehengas for the role. That’s reason enough for us to watch the film...right ladies?

4. Shahid Kapoor’s Warrior Avatar

Shahid Kapoor’s Warrior Avatar" title="4. Shahid Kapoor’s Warrior Avatar" width="600" height="400" >

Shahid Kapoor plays the role of Deepika’s husband, MahaRawal Ratan Singh, the king of Chittor. This is the first time Deepika and Shahid have ever worked together and it’ll be interesting to see their on-screen chemistry…especially with Ranveer in the picture for comparison (quite literally)! But what’s more exciting is that this is the first time we’ll ever see Shahid in a warrior’s avatar. Well, Shahid’s proved himself as super talented and versatile actor time and again, so we’re expecting big things from him!

5. Ranveer Singh as the anti-hero

Ranveer Singh as the anti-hero" title="5. Ranveer Singh as the anti-hero" width="600" height="400" >

It goes without saying that actor Ranveer Singh can easily get in to the skin of any character and he’s done some of his best work with Sanjay Leela Bhansali. After two gigantic box office hits with the director, he’s now back for a third. Except this time he’s not playing the hero we’ve come to love him as…this time he’s the antagonist!

6. An exorbitant budget and amazing visual effects

If you’ve seen the teaser, you know what we’re talking about. That little glimpse of the war scenes really gave us serious GOT vibes. Is Bollywood finally catching up to Hollywood’s high standards of visual effects? Well it better, given the budget of this film. Guess we’ll just have to wait and see!

The way we see it, this movie has all the makings of a huge blockbuster. As for the box office…time will tell!

Image Credits: Indiatimes.com, Twitter, India.com, Ndtvimg.com, Pinkvilla.com, Filmibeat.com, Ibnlive.in, Bollywoodlife.com, Youtube

• F.R.I.E.N.D.S
• Seinfeld
• Game of Thrones
• How I Met Your Mother
• The X Files
• The Office
• 30 Rock
• The Simpsons

F.R.I.E.N.D.S

The jury is still out on this one—is it okay with you make out with Person B if you’re on a break and technically, not seeing Person A?

Seinfeld

Obviously one of the best episodes of the hit comedy show, we’d watch re-runs of this episode especially for Elaine’s revenge-face.

Game of Thrones

This line needs no introduction… especially now that Season 7 has wrapped up and winter has come!

How I Met Your Mother

Wait for it…

The X Files

The perfect end to everyone’s favourite supernatural/sci-fi show from the nineties.

The Office

Few people know this but the now infamous ‘That’s what she said’ initially originated in this show.

30 Rock

Just another reason why Liz Lemon will always be the ultimate working class hero.

The Simpsons

Did you know that there’s an entire video dedicated to the best “D’oh!”s of all time?!

• The Awful and Awesome Entertainment Wrap
• My Favourite Murder
• Why Oh Why
• Ctrl Alt Delete
• My Dad Wrote a Porno
• Stuff You Should Know

The Awful and Awesome Entertainment Wrap

This one’s a home grown podcast, hosted by Rajyasree Sen and Abhinandan Sekhri. From discussing movie trailers and movie reviews, to new advertisements, interviews, events, award shows, music videos and documentaries, this podcast dissects all things pop culture. They don’t hold back on the sarcasm or wit and that’s what makes it so much fun. The friendly banter between the hosts makes this podcast a treat, without diluting the intelligent opinions it offers.

You can listen to it on the Newslaundry website.

My Favourite Murder

A comedy-murder series seems like an unlikely combination, but trust us, it works! If your favourite kind of novel is a murder mystery, this podcast is just that, with an added dose of dark humour. In each episode, hosts Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark discuss a fascinating murder while the other one has no clue what the story is. This often leads to more than a few laughs, which, given the gory subject at hand, is always welcome. While a murder podcast may seem gloomy, this one is anything but. The duo’s friendship spills into the podcast, making it quite a riot. So don’t worry, it isn’t all blood and guts.

You can listen to it on the Feral Audio website

Why Oh Why

If modern romance piques your interest, Why Oh Why is the podcast for you. Hosted by Andrea Silenzi, this podcast discusses relationships and love in the age of technology. In each episode, Silenzi sits with friends, experts and even men in bars to understand how millennials approach emotions and love in this digital age. Still not convinced? The New York Times, Apple Podcasts and Huffington Post called it the best podcast of 2016, so plug in your earphones and give it a go.

You can listen to it on the show’s official website

Ctrl Alt Delete

For when you’re seeking intellectual stimulation, catch an episode of Ctrl Alt Delete, hosted by Emma Gannon, who’s a blogger, podcaster, speaker and author. This podcast focuses on women and their relationship with the internet and technology. Each episode features a prominent young, successful woman (psst, Lena Dunham has made an appearance) who spills her views on everything from feminism to being a woman in an online space that often spews hate. Riveting stuff!

You can listen to it on the Acast website

My Dad Wrote a Porno

When you want to switch off and listen to a podcast that promises a laugh a minute (maybe more), pull up My Dad Wrote a Porno on your smartphone. The host, Jamie  Morton, discovered that his father authored an erotic novel, and the premise of this podcast is simple—he and his friends read it, one chapter at a time. It doesn’t sound like much but we promise you that it will have you in splits!

You can listen to it on the Acast website

Stuff You Should Know

If you live for interesting trivia, Stuff You Should Know is going to be right up your alley. From the people behind HowStuffWorks comes a podcast so interesting, it’s going to have you hooked from the get go. From finding out how fever dreams work to whether you can die of a broken heart, this podcast is the perfect thing to tune into when you want to satiate your hunger for trivia without putting in too much effort.

You can listen to it on the Stuff You Should Know website

Image courtesy: Pinterest, official websites of all podcasts, Ways We Work

• Game of Thrones
• Stranger Things
• Curb Your Enthusiasm
• The Walking Dead
• Jane the Virgin
• Life Sentence
• Riverdale

Game of Thrones

When: 17^th July 2017 onwards

On one hand Cersei is looking for revenge, and is ready to take on Daenerys and her army. On the other hand, the Starks, after being stranded from each other for one episode too many, may finally reunite in season 7 of this epic TV show. But, the more important question is: Who’s going to be one step closer to the Iron Throne? Although two episodes of this larger-than-life show are out, the journey has only just begun!

Stranger Things

When: 27^th October 2017

Season 1 of Stranger Things blew our minds, so we can’t help but get excited knowing that the stellar cast, including a bunch of incredibly talented kids, are back for season 2. If the trailer—cut to Michael Jackson’s iconic Thriller—is anything to go by, Will Byers isn’t done with the Upside-Down. In season 2, the force is stronger and threatens to engulf Hawkins in its sticky, slimy web. And if you’re gutted about Eleven’s journey coming to an end, don’t worry, beause the trailer reveals that she’s not done yet.

Curb Your Enthusiasm

When: 1^st October, 2017

Although not much has been revealed about the 9^th season of Curb Your Enthusiasm, it is definitely back after a 6-year hiatus. From the creator of Seinfield, season 9 of this Emmy award-winning show is reported to have 10 episodes. While season 8 ended with Larry David travelling to Paris to be with his children, the first episode of season 9 is going to be all about how he gets scammed by a dating website. If you’ve not seen seasons 1–8, now is a good time to catch up!

The Walking Dead

When: 22^nd October, 2017

Along with Curb Your Enthusiasm and Stranger Things, you also have The Walking Dead making a comeback with its 8^th season this October. While season 7 of this zombie drama was admittedly a little slow, season 8 seems to have picked up pace. Everyone’s getting their armour on for a battle with the Saviours, Father Gabriel has been captured by Negan and locked with zombies, while Daryl’s still the coolest guy around. There is a fan theory floating around that Rick wakes up and realises that everything up until now has been a dream. But, if you’ve read the comic, you’ll know that it could also be a time leap. Well, there’s only one way to find out!

Jane the Virgin

When: 13^th October, 2017

If a rom-com is what your heart wants, settle in, because Jane the Virgin is back with season 4! Season 3’s finale hinted heavily at more babies on the way, Jane possibly getting together with Rafael and a whole lot of twisted plotlines. As Jane gets a sister young enough to be her daughter, things are sure to get awkward, but in the funniest way, of course!

Life Sentence

When: December 2017­–January 2018

If you were upset about Pretty Little Liars coming to an end earlier this year, we’re here to cheer you up. Lucy Hale, who played Aria, is back with Life Sentence, a brand new drama-comedy that premiers late this year or early next year. While the official release date isn’t out yet, the trailer is, and it looks extremely promising. Hale plays Stella, a 20-something who’s lived the past 8 years burdened by cancer, knowing she’s going to die, until her doctor tells her that she’s been cured! She’s already spent the past 8 years living her life to the fullest, so what happens next?

Riverdale

When: October 11^th, 2017

Although the first season of Riverdale unravelled how Jason Blossom got murdered, the drama is no where close to being over. Season 2 picks up right where season 1 left off, with Archie’s dad being shot at Pop’s. We love Riverdale for its dark spin on the cheerful Archie comics and can’t wait to see where season 2 goes. Whether it’s unmasking Fred Andrew’s shooter or exploring Archie’s grim side, there’s a lot to look forward to. Also, while season 1 had 13 episodes, season 2 has 22 gritty episodes for you to devour!

Image courtesy: Den of Geek, Digital Spy, Slash Films, TV Gist, Youtube, HBO

• It’s not preachy
• It has one too many powerhouse performances
• The impactful narrative
• The inconclusive end

It’s not preachy

Yes, Lipstick Under My Burkha brings to fore the bitter truth about our country—that women are striving hard even today to break free against patriarchy and blatant chauvinism. It tells you the story of four vulnerable yet brave women who fight for their desire for sex, their right to choose their career, their freedom to dress the way they want to without being shamed. Despite these strong prejudices that every woman in the film tries to break, it doesn’t come across as one bit preachy. There’s a lot of funny banter, there’s plenty of LOL moments throughout the film—ones that every woman will identify with.

It has one too many powerhouse performances

Lipstick Under My Burkha is a movie that leaves you agitated against female subjugation—a concern that’s long been associated with our society. But when a movie like this fights its battles and finally sees the light of day, it’s a gamechanger for our society. More so because there’s Ratna Pathak Shah as Usha aka Buaji—who teaches you, rather unapologetically, that women even at 50, have a strong desire for lust. She’s comical, amusing and yet, so convincing every time she comes on screen. There’s Ahaana Kumra who’s a firecracker as Leela—a woman who never, at any point, makes you question her infidelity. There’s Plabita Borthakur as Rihana who wants to be Miley Cyrus, yearns for love and wears jeans—all this under a burka. And of course, there’s everybody’s fave actor, Konkona Sen Sharma, who’s fighting to be independent while battling marital rape and an oppressive husband. When a film gives you not one but 4 stellar performances, you can imagine what a treat Lipstick Under My Burkha actually is!

The impactful narrative

When you have Ratna Pathak Shah as the voiceover telling you the story of Rosy—who stands for all the women in the film, their sexuality and desires, as an audience, you’re already sold. Her narrative will crack you up, at the same time, will tell you the dire need for equality in our lives. When Shah speaks—you listen and that’s the power of casting one of the most notable actors of the industry.

The inconclusive end

If you’re looking for the same ol’ happy ending—back off. Lipstick Under My Burkha is far from your candyfloss cinema. There are explicit scenes and plenty of brave dialogues that you may have, as a woman, thought to yourself, but never really mustered the courage to say it loud. In a world that breeds in inequality and underplays women at every go, this movie says it like it is, with a pinch of humour of course. The end is inconclusive (that scene where 4 of them smoke and bond because they all have one cause is one of the many beautiful moments of the film). In the end of the movie, lives don’t change, there’s no revolution but you know you’ve left the theatre thinking that there are plenty of women like you and that they all want one thing—the freedom that they deserve.

• Showing up on time in Venezuela
• Sprinkling extra salt in Egypt
• Eating with a fork in Thailand
• Leaving a tip in Japan
• Giving flowers in Russia
• Crossing fingers in Vietnam
• Beckoning in the Philippines
• Using red ink in South Korea
• Eating with hands in Chile
• Unwrapping presents in India

Showing up on time in Venezuela

So this is a country meant for all the Late Kates amongst us—for arriving on time in Venezuela is often looked down upon. Why? Because you come across as overtly eager and the Venezuelan prefer people with a price.

Sprinkling extra salt in Egypt

A practise that’s considered quite common amongst us Indians, to add a little extra salt to whatever is in front of us, could actually be taken with offense in Egypt because it is a form of disrespect for the host’s cooking skills.

Eating with a fork in Thailand

Even though Thai food is served with a fork and spoon, it’s meant to be eaten only with the spoon, for the fork’s only there to help you push it onto the spoon. Do not use the fork to put the food in your mouth, it’s a custom.

Leaving a tip in Japan

Leaving a tip or any form of gratuity is considered rude in Japan because they’re of the ideology that the services you receive are already covered in the price you’re asked to pay for them, so why pay more?

Giving flowers in Russia

Red roses for a Russian lover? Not a bad idea at all, but make sure they’re not in dozens. For flowers given in even numbers is a practise common to funerals, so be careful to not upset her there. Just add one or scrap one.

Crossing fingers in Vietnam

The universal sign for hoping to get lucky is taken as an offense in Vietnam as it’s said to resemble a woman’s genitals. So we’re guessing the Vietnamese wouldn’t get the pun there, would they?

Beckoning in the Philippines

Now this is a rude gesture even in India, but people barely pay any heed. However, try this in the Philippines and expect to be in trouble right away, for this is a gesture used for dogs, and not for people. So be very careful.

Using red ink in South Korea

Know how we like to highlight important keywords in red? Well, avoid this in South Korea for red ink is reserved for the deceased. It’s also a superstition to wish harm upon someone if you write their name in red. So seriously avoid!

Eating with hands in Chile

Touching your food is considered rude in Chile, so make sure to use cutlery to avoid dining faux pas—yes, even for pizzas, burgers and fries. So forget about grabbing a mouthful of fries! Also, clear your plate, it’s considered to be polite.

Unwrapping presents in India

Excitedly opening up your presents in front of your guests could be interpreted as being greedy and rude, and could also get awkward if a few presents outshone the others. So best to save it for later!

Image Credits: Wikipedia, Maxiwalker, Dulcet Cuisine, Sheknows, Clipart Fest, Pinterest, Freedom Fighters, Johnkirkup, VideoHive, The Ribbon In My Journal, Toocraft, Metropolist

Expectation: Get rid of all the useless items and take efforts to really clean your room.

Reality: You are nowhere close to cleaning your room and decide to embrace all the mess around.

Getting enough sleep

Expectation: Get excited about all the long hours of sleep and pamper sessions you will give yourself.

Reality: You’re up and ready like a Bollywood diva at 6 in the morning for the Aarti.

Stick to your diet

Expectation: You give your mom clear instructions that oil dripping Poori and Chole is a strict no-no.

Reality: You end up eating everything you set your eyes on, because YOLO.

Meet friends

Expectation: Meet all your friends and shake a leg or two.

Reality: Watch another re-run of FRIENDS.

Dressing up for the Diwali party

Expectation: Put all the makeup tutorials you’ve watched to use and look absolutely stunning in all the #DiwaliSelfies

Reality: Fail miserably at trying a new makeup hack, look like a clown, cancel all plans and cry.

• 1. Venue
• 2. Food
• 3. Invitation
• 4. Decoration
• 5. Clothes
• 6. Music
• 7. Gifts

1. Venue

Decide a venue that is big enough to accommodate a crowd. Make sure you book and get permission at the place you want to organise the party at. You can even put stalls that sell dandiya sticks, costumes, jootis, jhumkas, bangles and other accessories to make it look more attractive.

2. Food

Go for some different cuisines. Call for caterers who can cook some delicious Gujarati food. Serving some amazing Gujarati dishes will complement the event beautifully. You can even put in some Rajasthani food, chaat and some snacks for variety. Keep some delicious masala soda, lime soda, kesar milk, badam milk, tea, coffee to go with your food. Make sure you keep some Indian sweets like chocolate barfi, basundi, peda, kheer etc to finish the meal on a high note.

3. Invitation

Be creative when it comes to invitations. You can design it digitally and go for what’s app invitations. You can add a small and creative write-up along with the essence of the event. Make the invitation very colourful so that it matches the festival. Don’t forget to mention the venue, timing and dress code.

4. Decoration

Go for a décor that is full of colours, bright colours to be precise. You can put some colourful umbrellas with mirror and got to work on them. Make a small section for selfies and photographs, you can put some frames decorated with flowers, a colourful background and some more props that complements the night, keep diyas in small patal bowls and surround it by yellow marigold flowers. You can also keep an idol of Sherawali Mata. Also make sure that your decorations are visible at night. Ensure that there is empty space in the ground for everyone to step in and dance.

5. Clothes

You can wear the typical and authentic lehenga with lots of gota work and mirror work for the garba night. Complement it with a bun wrapped in gajra or in a long plait. You can adorn yourself with authentic silver or silver shade mirror jewellery. Wear a nice matching bindi and footwear. You can even wear a sari or an anarkali suit or even dhoti and kurta. Don’t experiment with your look and stick to the dress code.

6. Music

Booking a DJ is important for the garba night. Everyone will expect some Gujarati music and some filmy music. Start the function with Gujarati folk songs and garba songs to get everyone in the zone for the night. You will enjoy garba and dandiya on these songs more than on Bollywood songs. Later you can play some Bollywood songs to add in some fun and spice to the night.

7. Gifts

You can also make a small potli for a token of thanks. You can put in a small idol of sherawali mata or a scented candle along with a thank you note. You can even give small carved elephants made of marble or chocolates.  This will make everyone feel special and they would appreciate your effort for the spectacular night.

• Decorations
• Dress code
• Music and games
• Food

Decorations

Don’t spend too much on this just to make it perfect. You can purchase the Indian flag and put it up on the wall. You can also make rangoli at the door in keeping with the theme. Use tri-coloured balloons and hang them in clusters around the house. To add a touch of green, you can also decorate with potted plants.

 

Dress code

Not a math equation to crack, the dress code should be as simple as the colours of the Indian flag. Tell your guests to wear Indian clothes to make this a fun affair. You can even opt for a pristine, white look. Jazz it up with orange and green bangles.
 

Music and games

Don’t play those English tracks in your playlists—they will not suit the theme at all. Create a playlist of patriotic numbers to make the ambience one of patriotism.
Make some themed based games. You can play charades but just with the movies that are related to Independence Day. Or you can play the classic antakshari with patriotic songs. You can also a You can play the favourite house-hold game Antakshari, with just patriotic songs.

Food

It’s a great idea to serve up your guests food in the tricolours. Some of the options are tricoloured dhoklas, idlis and sandwiches. You can also prepare chutneys in the colours of the Indian flag. Go all out with your creativity—and have a happy Independence Day!
 

• Fat Mascara
• Breaking Beauty
• Full Coverage
• Glowing Up With Esther And Caroline

Fat Mascara

With each episode, hosts Jessica Matlin and Jennifer Goldstein—both established voices in beauty—bring us some very well thought-out beauty conversations around upcoming beauty trends, Instagram fads, products and more. As beauty journalists, they also share their beauty adventures, fails, hacks and more!

Listen here
 

Breaking Beauty

Created and curated by beauty editors Carlene Higgins and Jill Dunn this podcast is a sassy, witty and funny revelation of all the inside scoop from the beauty industry. They even have guests over to discuss the very, many aspects of beauty and skin care.  

Listen Here

Full Coverage

Full Coverage is a beauty podcast by beauty addicts for beauty addicts! Hosted by Harriet Hadfield, a popular makeup artist and Lindsey Kelk, an author and a beauty blogger—this one is all about cult beauty products, launches and all the beauty info straight from the industry know-it-alls.  

Listen Here

Glowing Up With Esther And Caroline

This podcast by Esther and Caroline is basically a fun documentation of their quest for glowing skin. Intelligent beauty conversations with beauty editors and makeup experts that range from skin care and makeup to wellness; this podcast is honest, brash, fun and informative. What’s not to love, ladies!

The Beauty Brains

This weekly podcast hosted by cosmetic chemists, Perry Romanowski and Randy Schuelle is like listening to your very own skin expert or dermat just without spending a fortune on that appointment. 
The duo talks about beauty breakthroughs, beauty science and address beauty and skin care queries.  

Listen Here
 

• Goku
• Khal Drogo
• Pablo Escobar
• Bojack Horseman
• Daphne
• Daria and Jane
• Daenerys Targaryen
• Eleven

Goku

Everyone watched Dragon Ball Z as a child and Goku was undoubtedly everyone’s hero. Cosplaying as Goku is the easiest to pull off. So, if you’re a lazy guy, this is definitely going to be perfect for you. What you will struggle finding is Goku’s hair in normal shops, but you will easily find it online. So, remember to order it well in advance! Your Halloween costume is ready!

Khal Drogo

‘Game of Thrones’ fans, this idea is for you! Who gets a chance to look rugged, rub bronzer over their chest and knot their beards in real lives? Well, if these things sound tempting to you, then Khal Drogo is your ideal cosplay inspo.

Pablo Escobar

If you can’t help but love the bad boys of television, Pablo Escobar cosplay is ideal for you this Halloween. All you need to do is borrow your dad’s shirt and trousers, maybe a sweater? Add a fake moustache and stuff up your belly a little, and you’re good to go!

Bojack Horseman

If you take cosplaying very seriously, try the Bojack cosplay! This TV show is extremely popular amongst the youth and the fictitious character of Bojack is by far the easiest cosplay idea that you can try this Halloween. Horse-head masks are easily available on Ebay, Amazon etc. All you need to do is put on a blue t-shirt, grey jacket and pants. And you can easily get rid of the mask whenever you want and still manage to be at your comfortable best.

For the Girls

Daphne

Scooby Doo cosplays have been extremely popular in the west, but we haven’t seen many Indians try it out. The Daphne costume is easy to recreate and comfortable to wear. You can go a little extra with the hair if you wish to, as red head wigs are easily available in India, but even if you don’t, you will still pull off a Daphne because of the distinct costume!

Daria and Jane

This is the ultimate lazy girl’s guide to dressing up this Halloween. This is also the perfect costume to try if you and your best friend want to cosplay as a pair! You probably won’t even have to head out and shop for this, as it is basic and easy to pull off!

Daenerys Targaryen

Okay, this might seem like a bit of a stretch, especially to Indians. But if you truly are a Game of Thrones fan, then this cosplay will be worth every minute of your effort. Again, the blonde wig is easily available online. You can opt for any flowy pastel coloured dress and still manage to pull a great Daenerys cosplay, cause it’s all in the hair and makeup for this particular character. You will definitely slay your Halloween party with this cosplay.

Eleven

Everyone’s favourite little girl with superpowers, eleven, is also a Halloween cosplay favourite! Her Stranger Things costume is simple, less time consuming to style and comfortable. You will need a pair of socks, a pink skater dress, a blue jacket and white lace shoes. If you have a pixie cut, this cosplay will look perfect on you! Otherwise, just wear a blonde wig. To add more realness to the look, don’t forget to add some fake blood below your nostril!

And there you have it! Fun cosplay ideas that you can totally try for your Halloween party this year! So, which one of these are you trying?

Image credits: alexcloudsquall.deviantart.com, pinterest.com, costumewall.com, Tumblr.com, geekxgirls.com

• 1.Kenny Sebastian (@knowkenny)
• 2. Biswa Kalyan Rath (@biswamastaadmi)
• 3. Tanmay Bhat (@thetanmay)
• 4. Mallika Dua (@mallikadua)
• 5. Varun Thakur (@varoonthakoor)
• 6. Rohan Joshi (@rohanjoshi22)

1.Kenny Sebastian (@knowkenny)

The man with the sardonic face, Kenny Sebastian has become one of the most loved comics in the country. He has won over millions with well-crafted irony as well as his seemingly apparent ‘rich people’ complex. Just like his jokes on stage, Kenny’s Snapchat updates are rib-tickling, and full of sarcasm. Oh, and just like most of us, he loves filters.

2. Biswa Kalyan Rath (@biswamastaadmi)

Always one for dramatic gestures and full of energy, Biswa has carved out a sizeable niche for himself in the world of Indian stand-up. We love Biswa’s Snapchat updates for their self-deprecating humour and his absolute hate for travel. And what’s funny is that he’s always travelling. So, if you aren’t a fan of travelling either, follow @biswamastaadmi on Snapchat, and gear up for some non-stop entertainment.

3. Tanmay Bhat (@thetanmay)

Fresh humour and great acting skills, these words best sum up Tanmay Bhat. Like all of us, Tanmay’s an avid Snapchat user, and what’s great about his stories is that he sometimes addresses relevant issues like sexism and feminism, and giving them his own well-meaning humorous touch. Take for example the time he slammed the absurd concept of being ‘friendzoned’ with the infamous Snapchat ‘bee’ filter—what better way to talk about what’s actually relevant, right? Especially when you give people a good laugh.

4. Mallika Dua (@mallikadua)

Mallika Dua is an Indian comic of notable skill and an even bigger following. She has gained loads of popularity through her Snapchat character, Makeup Didi. We’ve all been through a couple of makeup-related disasters ourselves, haven’t we? Well, Mallika Dua’s Snapchat updates can certainly remind you about them in the most hilarious ways possible. Oh, and we could all learn a thing or too about filters from Mallika—she’s insanely good at using them.

5. Varun Thakur (@varoonthakoor)

Co-founder at SNG Comedy, Varun has managed to fill his Snapchat updates with his sublime form of comedy. His Snapchat stories are super-funny, as he plays the Ed-Hardy loving, struggling actor, Vicky Malhotra. The comedian exploits filters, while acting out the daily struggles of Vicky Malhotra, right from the character’s love life to stuff that happens at work.

6. Rohan Joshi (@rohanjoshi22)

One of the founders of AIB, Rohan is a hilarious comic and a talented writer, who brings his hilarity to Snapchat as well. As a total cat-person, Rohan’s Snapchat updates are overflowing with adorable kitties. One time, Rohan even staged an imaginary conversation between his cats, and undoubtedly, it cracked us up. So, if you’re a cat-lover too, follow @rohanjoshi22, and prepare yourself for a daily dose of comedy and cuteness.

So, there you have it. 6 Indian comedians, and 6 hilarious Snapchat handles to follow. When you’re having a rough day, all you need to do is get on to Snapchat, and laugh away to some minute-by-minute comedy, thanks to these wonderfully entertaining folks.

Image credits: MensXP, Snapchat

• More Darkness
• More episodes
• #Bughead
• What’s Cheryl upto?
• #Varchie

More Darkness

If dark and twisted is how you roll, you’re in for a treat this season cause it’s going to get darker than ever! What else can you expect from a season that had a first episode that started with a shootout and ended with a murder?

More episodes

Let us rephrase, this is not what you can expect, as it’s confirmed! This season seems to have so many plots mixed up and intertwined like a maze, a longer timeline had to be the answer to the show makers wanting to pull off a successful season! So, unlike the last season, this season Riverdale will feature 22 episodes instead of 13! Are you jumping in excitement already? Cause we definitely are!

#Bughead

Who doesn’t love the show couple Betty and Jughead who are also now Hollywood’s IT couple IRL. (Cole Sprouse and Lili Reinhart) But things aren’t looking all that good on the #Bughead front, we hear. Vanessa Morgan will be joining the show as the South-side Serpent’s first girl gang member and with Jughead actively embracing the serpent lifestyle by following in his daddy’s footsteps, we can only keep our fingers crossed for the two of them.

What’s Cheryl upto?

If you’re aware of the horrors inflicted upon Cheryl by her mum, you will also know that Cheryl (being Cheryl)is not going to stop at just setting places (and people) ablaze. Her character is definitely getting darker than the lipstick she wears, so expect her to attain a whole new level of crazy this season! Cheryl is Riverdale’s Regina George and we can’t wait to see more of her this season.

#Varchie

According to EW, this season’s storyline will also have Veronica’s ex boyfriend visiting Riverdale all the way from NYC. Although just for two episodes, we only wonder what his ulterior motive is? Will #Varchie survive through this sudden scandalous visit of the ex? We know that Archie and Veronica have started strong in the season thanks to the steamy shower scene, but will they make it?

Just one episode into the season, there’s so much to expect that we can’t even keep track. You can catch the season on Netflix!

Image credits: Tvovermind.com, Denofgeek.com, comingsoon.net, giphy.com, popsugar.com, Hearstapps.com, justjaredjr.com

The NH7 Weekender is literally the greatest way to catch up with your friends, have a majorly chilled out time and watch some amazing live acts all at the same time! We all lead busy lives so heading out for the weekend seems like a great idea to us!

The Meghalaya lineup this year wasn’t appreciated much when they announced the initial acts but when you have the legendary Steve Vai headlining, you shouldn't be in two minds to book your tickets! Meghalaya is a beautiful place and we can’t wait to see what the turn up will be like at the NH7 weekender this year!

It was this time that people went crazy with excitement, when it was announced that the Pune lineup this year will have American pop and indie band “Cigarettes After Sex” performing. They have given us hits like “Nothing’s gonna hurt you baby” and “Affection” that we can’t wait to hear live!

If you have grown up listening to classic punk rock, we’re sure Ramones is a band you definitely listened to! Well guess what, Marky Ramone, the drummer of The Ramones is coming to Pune NH7 Weekender! We can’t contain our excitement to witnessing what he has in store for us!

Vir Das recently stole our hearts with an outstanding Netflix special! Now it’s your time to watch him live where he and his band Alien Chutney fuse comedy and music together! Hilarious lyrics and a lot of fun is what is in store for you at the NH7 Weekender!

If you’re a fan of chilled out, acoustic music, then Prateek Kuhad is your guy! He does a brilliant job on the guitar and floors us with his beautiful lyrics! If you haven’t checked out his music yet, check out songs like “Yeh pal” and “Raat raazi”. We’re certain you’ll fall in love with his music! Although he isn’t performing in Meghalaya, he’s performing in Pune!

All in all, it’s going to be brilliant music and if you need to do some soul searching, it’s safe to go alone too. So book your solo ticket or get your friends on board for this super fun mini music vacay and we’re sure it won’t disappoint you. The NH7 Weekender is not called the happiest music festival without any reason!

Image credits : Festivalsherpa.com, NatGeoTraveller.in, Motorcitycomiccon.com, InviteMyGuest.in, Prateekkuhad.com

• Emma Stone, La La Land
• Dev Patel, Lion
• Mahershala Ali, Moonlight
• Natalie Portman, Jackie
• Casey Affleck, Manchester by the Sea

Emma Stone, La La Land

Of course, Emma Stone made the cut for us! Although Ryan’s charm on-screen was a little difficult to resist, Stone took the cake for us by literally shining through the film owing every scene that challenged her as an actor. Now that’s what we call stealing the show…

Dev Patel, Lion

Prestigious award nominations and Dev Patel have almost always gone in sync ever since his debut in Slumdog Millionaire. So when he played and personified yet another Indian boy with struggles all too real and relatable, he was bound to win a few hearts (and perhaps an Oscar too).

Mahershala Ali, Moonlight

Mahershala playing ‘Juan’ was soul-saving for all those out there who’ve made mistakes but who are also desperately in need of second chances. Your misdeeds do not define you—that’s your takeaway from the movie, and when you have a commanding presence like Ali show it to you, it’s a little hard to miss.

Natalie Portman, Jackie

Nat’s always been one to watch out for, be it in Black Swan or Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium—you were always prepared to be amazed. But what Portman did in Jackie was raising an all-new benchmark. Very few actors have that kind of power to leave a lasting impression and Nat does that with ease.

Casey Affleck, Manchester by the Sea

Casey’s sure come a long way since his American Pie days—he’s now portraying a man who’s had to put a rock to his heart to take on his deceased brother’s teenage son. Each expression and emotion conveys an incommunicable sadness, that Casey surprises by delivering to a hundred.

Image Credits: The Playlist, Esquireme, Collider, Indiewire, Hollywood Reporter, Comingsoon.net

• The Weeknd - Starboy
• Sia ft. Sean Paul - Cheap Thrills
• Drake - Hotline Bling
• DJ Snake ft. Justin Bieber - Let Me Love You
• Marshmallow - Alone
• Calvin Harris ft. Rihanna - This Is What You Came For
• DJ Snake ft. Bipolar Sunshine - Middle
• The Chainsmokers ft. Halsey - Closer

The Weeknd - Starboy

You probably got the lyrics all wrong or didn't understand a word he sang—meh, didn't matter, as long as you felt like a king.

Sia ft. Sean Paul - Cheap Thrills

Earlier this year, Sia gave all the broke girls in the city the party anthem to narrate their way of life—Baby, I don't need dollar bills to have fun tonight.

Drake - Hotline Bling

Drake showed us how he planned to own 2016 when he first dropped Hotline Bling on us in Feb. And so he did—because come August, we still couldn't stop obsessing over the track.

DJ Snake ft. Justin Bieber - Let Me Love You

What's a party playlist without a number(s) by DJ Snake? In collaboration with boy-crush Justin Bieber, this track continues to be on our list well into December.

Marshmallow - Alone

The headbanging track of the year—Alone—has just four lines to its lyrics, but are enough to give you breathing room between the beats, so you don't numb yourself out.

Calvin Harris ft. Rihanna - This Is What You Came For

When a 1:31 minute audio leak hits 82 mil views, what d’you expect to happen when the entire video, featuring a smokin’ Riri is released?

DJ Snake ft. Bipolar Sunshine - Middle

If Turn Down For What, Get Low and Lean On topped your party playlist in the years gone by, then prepare to be completely blown away by the electro beats of Middle.

The Chainsmokers ft. Halsey - Closer

You saw this one coming, dincha? You’ve only been playing three different versions of it, on loop, on your iPod—making Closer the song of the year! Seriously though, thank God for The Chainsmokers.

Image Credits: G1.globo, YouTube, Billboard, Pitchfork, MTV UK

• Tabu—Fitoor
• Rishi Kapoor—Kapoor & Sons
• Ranbir Kapoor—Ae Dil Hai Mushkil" title="Ranbir Kapoor—Ae Dil Hai Mushkil" >Ranbir Kapoor—Ae Dil Hai Mushkil
• Alia Bhatt —Udta Punjab
• Amitabh Bachchan—Pink

Tabu—Fitoor

When you have Tabu as a part of a movie, expect her to steal the show even if it stars Katrina Kaif and Aditya Roy Kapoor. Precisely what happened with Fitoor. Her portrayal of the crafty Begum Hazrat, where she manages to strum all the right chords—at one point you pity her while in another, you detest her. The kind of drama she brings to the movie, you know there’s a reason why only she can save a film like this.

Rishi Kapoor—Kapoor & Sons

Playing a jolly old man in a dysfunctional family was Rishi Kapoor in Kapoor & Sons. Despite the unsightly prosthetic makeup, Kapoor shines in the film, thanks to his humorous antics. Be it the scene where he has a face pack on or the shot where he’s lusting after Mandakini’s wet sari on his iPad—his presence really did get the audience smiling. It’s a film that’s heavy on the heart but Kapoor surely gives you those laughs amidst all the drama.

Ranbir Kapoor—Ae Dil Hai Mushkil

Ranbir Kapoor—Ae Dil Hai Mushkil" title="Ranbir Kapoor—Ae Dil Hai Mushkil" width="600" height="400" >

RK Jr. had been rather vocal about his rough patch at the movies until Ae Dil Hai Mushkil came by. And boy, did he make the most of this opportunity or what! Kapoor tells his story of unrequited love beautifully, thanks to his superior acting chops, expressive eyes and heart-aching dialogues. Sure, the film had an iffy storyline but trust a gifted actor like Ranbir to give it his all to romance and drama.

Alia Bhatt —Udta Punjab

Alia Bhatt may have tip-toed into Bollywood with the ditzy-girl vibe but if you thought she was just another prop of glamour in the movies, she proved time and again since Student Of The Year that she was a powerhouse performer. This year it was Udta Punjab where she did just about everything right—from acing the Bihari accent to her vulnerability and pain on celluloid. Here’s hoping you win all the awards this year, girl!

Amitabh Bachchan—Pink

Pink was a movie so important in a misogynistic society as ours and only a revered star like Amitabh Bachchan could’ve told this story so convincingly. Almost every actor in the movie deserves a standing ovation but AB proves yet again that an actor, whose career spanning over four decades, is still such a genius when it comes to his craft. His courtroom scenes were nothing short of spectacular where he tells the audience that when a woman says no, she means no. If it broke any stereotypes in your head, it is because of this movie and the stellar performer that is Bachchan.

• Misfits
• Mr. Robot
• Outcast
• The Night Of
• Feed The Beast

Misfits

A series around five juvenile offenders that have nothing in common, except one thing—superpowers. After an electrical storm hits their small town, their lives change forever. The teenagers are now on their own to figure out the magnitude and extent of their capabilities. It’s safe to say, we’re definitely intrigued.

Mr. Robot

Elliot is a cybersecurity engineer and hacker, suffering from a social anxiety disorder due to his past issues. He is now a secret recruit of Mr. Robot and his team of hackers—Fsociety. This leads him to his ultimate mission to destroy the organisation that he was being paid to protect. Controversial much? Hell yeah!

Outcast

A young Kyle, unable to find peace and sanctity, is on the lookout to find answers to his demonic possessions that have haunted him all through his existence. We say if Conjuring was your favourite horror movie then Outcast is just for you—this one’s like a movie extended into a whole new series.

The Night Of

This one revolves around Naz Khan—a Pakistani-American college student who lives in Queens, New York. It all seems like an innocent night when Naz gives a lift to a strangely intriguing woman and then takes her to a party until horror strikes when Naz is suddenly the prime suspect of her murder. Will Naz prove his innocence? Watch this one to crack the case!

Feed The Beast

Ross Geller makes a comeback as Tommy Moran, who along with his best friend Dion Patras, is on the lookout for opening an upscale Greek restaurant in the midst of Bronx. However, this is also when the New York way of life starts getting in their way. We can’t wait to watch their adventures. Can you?

mage Credits:
Fanart.tv, Hollywoodreporter, Todaytvseries, Tvseriesfinale