Making the impossible possible – Culinary

“Some journeys begin in pain, others in passion. For Vandana Dewan, it began with both and transformed it into a mission that would one day change how a nation eats.” The Good Stuff by Vandy’s didn’t just happen, it was born out of relentless struggle, grit and one woman’s unwavering desire to transform the eating habits of an increasingly obese nation. For Vandana Dewan, founder of Vandy’s, healthy eating isn’t just a trend, it’s a way of life. Few people not only choose this path for themselves but also dedicate their lives to helping others walk it too. Vandana is one of those rare changemakers. Her story began in her teenage years. At just 16, Vandana weighed 80 kilos. The turning point came one day when she overheard classmates ridiculing her weight. Instead of breaking down, she made a bold decision, to transform herself. Within 90 days, she had dropped to 45 kilos with a 21-inch waistline. That milestone was just the beginning. Through her journey, she realized that crash diets and quick fixes were dangerous illusions. The real secret lay in clean, wholesome, healthy eating. Fueled by her newfound passion, she explored aerobics when it was first introduced in India and soon became a trainer at Hauz Khas Village. Her curiosity pushed her deeper into the culinary world. From experimenting at home to interning with the prestigious Oberoi Hotels and training at the Academy of Pastry Arts, Vandana mastered the art of creating food that was not just tasty but nourishing. Even as a mother of two, she continued her mission, crafting meals that were nutritious, low-calorie, and loved by her family. Soon, her culinary classes opened up a world of healthy possibilities for others. Traveling across the globe only enriched her understanding of diverse cuisines and widened her creative canvas. Finally, her dream took shape as Good Stuff by Vandy’s, a vegan cafĂ© located in Modern Bazaar, Gurugram. Here, every dish tells a story, of fresh produce sourced daily from trusted farms, of creativity, of balance. The menu spans across vibrant salads, wholesome soups, hearty wraps, indulgent-yet-healthy cakes, sandwiches, Buddha Bowls, smoothies, and guilt-free desserts. Plant-based, low-calorie, and bursting with flavor, her recipes are designed for every palate and every age group. What makes Good Stuff by Vandy special is not just the food, it’s the philosophy.  Vandana introduces new and innovative recipes regularly, making healthy eating exciting, inclusive, and sustainable. Her creations prove that health and fitness don’t have to mean sacrifice. Her journey continues to inspire many. Guided by the philosophy of nutritional therapist Amelia Freer “Nutrition is not low fat or low calorie. It’s not being hungry and feeling deprived. It’s nourishing your body with real whole foods so that you are consistently satisfied and energised to live life to the fullest.” Vandana has made it her life’s mission to share this message with the world. Good food, good health, good life, this is the essence of The Good Stuff by Vandy’s. 🌿

India’s Favourite Beverages

“India doesn’t just eat according to its seasons, it drinks with them too. And here, every sip tells a story of comfort, culture and community.” India is a land of extremes from bone-chilling winters, scorching summers, and monsoons that bring their own charm. With every season comes a shift in our cravings. Spicy, hot comfort foods dominate winter, while chilled delights rule summer. But one thing remains constant: after a long, tiring day, everyone longs for something refreshing. And in India, street-side beverage stalls are the true saviors, found on almost every corner. Here are some of the most loved drinks that keep the nation energized. 🍋 Shikanji (Lemonade, Indian Style)  There’s nothing more refreshing than a glass of lemon juice, called lemonade across the world and shikanji in India. But unlike plain lemonade, shikanji comes with a spicy twist: black salt, mint, black pepper, and chaat masala, all mixed with tangy lemon. Served as a welcome drink in homes and at roadside stalls, it is the go-to refresher for workers, travelers, and anyone battling exhaustion. ☕ Chai (Tea) If there’s one beverage India is obsessed with, it’s tea. From bustling streets to quiet villages, “ek cup chai” is the magic phrase that revives millions every day. Tea doesn’t just fight sleepiness, it’s a ritual, a conversation starter, and a daily comfort. Over time, this love has birthed many variations: masala chai, cutting chai, and even smoky tandoori chai, which is served from a clay cup charred over fire. đŸč Sugarcane Juice Freshly pressed sugarcane juice is India’s natural energy drink. Found along highways, markets, and street corners, it’s cheap, hydrating, and delicious. Usually served with ice cubes, ginger, and a splash of lemon, this golden-green juice is both filling and refreshing, perfect for summer weariness. This tasty drink is served in glasses with ice cubes and a little ginger and lemon flavour. Which makes it more yummy. Just a glass of sugarcane juice is enough to makeyou energetic and fill your stomach as well. đŸ„› Lassi  A true gift from Punjab, lassi is made by churning fresh yogurt with milk until smooth and frothy. Traditionally sweetened or salted, lassi is now enjoyed in many flavors—mango, strawberry, chocolate, and the ever-popular masala lassi. Served in tall glasses or traditional clay cups, it’s as much a cultural symbol as a drink. đŸ„€ Buttermilk (Chaas/Matha/Ghol) Known by many names across India, chaas in Gujarat, matha in North India and ghol in Bengal, buttermilk is a light, tangy, yogurt-based drink. Spiced with roasted cumin, curry leaves, or simply sweetened, it’s the ultimate summer cooler. Often served in clay pots, it not only aids digestion but also carries a rustic charm. đŸ„„ Tender Coconut Water  Few things beat the simplicity of sipping fresh coconut water straight from the shell. Found abundantly across South India and coastal towns, it’s nature’s own sports drink, cooling, hydrating and nutritious. The tender coconut flesh inside adds an extra treat, making it both a drink and a snack. Apart from these six favorites, India’s beverage culture is rich and diverse, right from fruit juices, cold coffee, milkshakes, smoothies, mint coolers and of course the ever-present cold drinks. Whatever the season, there’s always a refreshing sip waiting just around the corner.

You Can’t Glow Up Until You Grow Up

Every girl, boy, man and woman want to look the best and different and want tostand out in a crowd. Glow up tricks are something which are getting viral and recommended day by day. We can’t deny that all of us have searched for ‘daily skincare routine’ and ‘makeup tutorial’ vlogs of our favourite celebrities and influencers. Everyone dreams of having a clear Korean skin, slender body personality, good profile picture and maximum number of followers on social media. Glow up is a prominent way for getting all these. What exactly is Glow-up? For people who think, glow up is only getting a fair complexion, it’s not. Glow up is actually making yourself look smarter, brighter with a changed and developed personality. We can say that it is a part of the “then vs now challenge” which was trending on social media a few months back. What are Glow up tricks? Well, there are end number of tricks and tips that should be made a part of the routine to get a proper glow up in a less span of time. Let’s discuss the most recommended tricks.
  • Drinking water:
It’s said thatat least 3 and at most 7 litres of water is mandatory for being consumed everyday to become successful in the Glow up challenge. Drinking water is actually very healthy and useful. It helps in the ejection of waste and makes your body hydrated which leads to clear skin, smooth digestion and avoids dehydration.
  • Use of face masks and scrubs:
Hydrating face sheet masks, fruit serum masks are getting popular amongst everyone now a days. In fact using a hydrating face mask has become the first step in makeover. Let’s talk overthe traditional tips. We all have been to haldi ceremonies Of our relatives and friends which are an important part of pre-wedding ceremonies. Most of us know the fact that haldi that is turmeric is a natural ingredient which helps for an instant glowing skin. Turmeric and gram flour face masks and scrub are traditionally popular in our Indian families. These face masks Also can be used twice a week to have a glow up.    
  • Eat fruits and vegetables:
A cliché one! Healthy food is a very important part of glow up. The more nutrition you consume, the better glow up result you get. You should at least have one fruit or a glass of natural fruit juice everyday. Natural, ripened fruits help in detoxification of body which again leads to beautiful, clear skin. Stop saying no to whatever your mom prepared at home for lunch and dinner and avoid going to restaurants to have meals.
  • Exercise and meditate :
Let’s change a common and addictive habitof using cell phones as soon as you wake up in the morning. Give yourself a break from the harmful radiations of your cell phones and avoid watching social media apps early in the morning. Believe me or not it actually makes your day bad bygiving you lots of insecurities and tensions. Calm yourself. Drink a glass of water and do proper exercise and yoga at home or gym. I would prefer home. Telling the benefits of yoga and Physical exercise will need another, separate article. Meditation is a must. Until you relax yourself mentally you cant give your body a good vibe to start the day.
  • Self-grooming , change the routine :
Get your eyebrows, nails, hair, beard and moustache done. Wash your hair at least twice a week with cold water, use cucumber and potato slices to hydrate your eyes and get rid of dark circles. Use lip scrubs and different scrubs to get rid of facial problems. Change your routine, get up early and sleep early. Make a to do list and study and work hard. Whatever you’ll do today will be paid off later one day. Always motivate yourself and your family, friends and loved ones.     What else is necessary for the glow up? As said in the title you need to grow up mentally to get a perfect glow up. Stop worrying about the followers on social media and people who dislike you. If you think you are getting low, change yourself, change the way of your living, learn to face and tackle difficult situations, take your own decisions. Thus, try to change for the better inside out. If you liked and followed this article, congratulations! You have won in the Glow up challenge. IMAGE SOURCES: PINTEREST AND YOUTUBE.

Sarees don’t need an occasion to drape!

 “Trends come and go, but the saree is forever. One drape, a million moods and our Bollywood divas prove just how timeless and versatile it can be!” The saree is one Indian outfit that never goes out of style. It flatters every body type, works for almost every occasion and strikes the perfect balance between comfort and elegance. Whether it’s a festive celebration, a wedding, or even a workday, the drape can make you look sophisticated without trying too hard. If you also need some inspiration for your next saree look? Let’s take notes from these Bollywood beauties who’ve styled it to perfection.
  • Alia Bhatt – Simple & Chic
The Sadak 2 actress proves that less is more in a bright red floral organza saree. The sheer fabric, with its hand-painted flower motifs, makes the outfit delicate yet striking. Pair it with golden jhumkas, straight sleek hair, and a soft lipstick shade. Minimal makeup here is the key to looking effortlessly graceful.
  • Tara Sutaria – Glam in White & Gold
Tara knows how to keep it classy in a white and golden saree that screams elegance. The trick is to let the outfit do the talking. Keep accessories minimal, but make your makeup the highlight, think glossy lips and bold eyes. Style your hair straight or in soft waves for a balanced glam look.
  • Katrina Kaif – Fresh & Playful
Katrina’s lime green chiffon saree is proof that the right color can instantly lift your mood. She wears it pinned-free, keeping the drape loose and flowy. Add simple ethnic earrings, subtle makeup, and soft waves to nail the breezy yet desi vibe.
  • Kareena Kapoor Khan – Royal Elegance
If you want to go full glam, take a cue from Kareena’s emerald green silk saree. Pair it with an emerald stone necklace for that regal touch. Dark kohl-lined eyes, blow-dried voluminous hair, and nude lips bring the whole look together, perfect for an evening soiree. From fresh florals to royal silks, these celebrity-approved saree looks are perfect for your next big occasion. Just pick your vibe, add the right accessories, and let the saree work its timeless magic.

Sabyasachi X H&M

Love the Sabyasachi x H&M collection but missed out ? Don’t worry, your dream boho-chic wardrobe is still within reach and on a budget! The Sabyasachi x H&M collection, yes, the one that made every fashion lover skip a heartbeat, was nothing less than legendary. Imagine India’s most loved designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee joining hands with global fast-fashion giant H&M. The result? A dreamy ‘Wanderlust’ collection. Bohemian, bold and dripping with global nomad aesthetics. Inspired by travel, Sabya fused timeless Indian textiles with a touch of Morocco, Istanbul and Japan. Within minutes of launch, the collection was sold out worldwide. British Vogue even called it one of the most iconic collaborations in fashion history. But let’s be honest, most pieces were either sold out in seconds or came with a price tag that made us rethink our shopping cart. And that’s where the heartbreak began for most of us.  So what if you couldn’t grab the Sabyasachi X H&M originals? The good news is, you don’t need to. You can recreate the same vibe on a budget with pieces from Fabindia, Myntra and other high-street brands because affordable doesn’t need to mean boring. Here’s how you can channel the Wanderlust aesthetic without splurging:
  • Cream/Red Saree – Pair a flowy printed saree with a minimalist blouse for that signature Sabya elegance.
  • Dark Khaki Beige Shorts – Style them with a boho crop top and chunky sandals for a wanderer’s vibe.
  • Printed Dress – Go for earthy tones with tribal or floral prints. Add a waist belt to nail the silhouette.
  • Floral Skirt – Think breezy fabrics, bold florals, and a tucked-in shirt, chic yet comfy.
  • Large Earrings & Coin Bracelet – Statement jewelry is key. The bigger, the better.
And you know the best part? These pieces don’t just copy the look, they give you space to experiment, mix and add your own personality. Fashion is less about imitation and more about inspiration, so wear it your way. This season, let’s celebrate style without guilt-tripping our wallets. Because honestly, being fashionable doesn’t mean spending a fortune , it means being confident, creative and unapologetically YOU.

Invest in THESE accessories if you are a girl who lives in her kurtas

Everytime you open your wardrobe, you’ll find one timeless hero waiting for you, the kurta.But here’s the secret, styling a simple kurta doesn’t take a designer label, just a few clever add-ons that can instantly turn basic into breathtaking. We all know that kurtis never goes out of style. Whether you’re heading to work, celebrating a festival, or just catching up with friends,  it fits in everywhere. But to keep it from looking too plain, the right accessories can transform it into a statement outfit. Here’s a list of styling must-haves that every girl should own to make her kurta shine :     One thing you can perpetually depend upon if you open your closet, is a good kurta. It’s a piece of clothing which never appears out of place and suits each occasion- be it work, a festival, or simply chilling out together with your friends. Kurtas are a girl’s best friend, right? There are a plentiful fashion hacks which will not only solely appear like you’ve placed in some effort, however will elevate you from the dull and uninteresting status pretty simply. We have curated together an inventory of items which are basic but when styled with a decent kurta, will certainly add all the spark the outfit needs! Therefore, lets dive right into it!
  1. Jhumkas & Hoops
Nothing elevates a kurta like statement earrings. From Delhi’s Sarojini Nagar to Mumbai’s Colaba Causeway, you’ll find endless choices at pocket-friendly prices. Online stores also have great collections if street shopping isn’t your thing. Keep both silver and gold tones in your collection, they go with everything.    
  1. Multicolored Dupatta
Sometimes, all it takes is a vibrant dupatta to make a kurta outfit feel festive. Think Benarasi for a regal touch or Bandhani for that playful charm. A single statement dupatta can be styled on repeat for weddings, get-togethers, or even casual brunches, a true wardrobe investment.  
  1. Kolhapuri Chappals
Comfort meets desi chic with Kolhapuris. Flat, easy to walk in, and available in tons of styles, they instantly add a traditional edge to your kurta look. Pair them with palazzos, churidars, or even jeans-with-kurta, and you’ll still nail that effortless ethnic vibe.
  1. Bindis: The Underrated Star
One tiny dot, and your look goes from simple to striking. Bindis are often overlooked, but when paired with a kurta, they add grace and elegance that no other accessory can. Whether you go minimal or experiment with colors, this old-school accessory is forever iconic.
  1. Bangles That Sparkle
No kurta look is truly complete without bangles. Keep both silver and gold ones handy – trust us, they’ll go with almost everything. Go minimal with slim sets for daily wear, or stack chunky designs for festive vibes. Either way, they’ll bring that extra spark to your outfit. So now you know that fashion doesn’t always mean complicated. A basic kurta paired with the right accessories can outshine even the most glamorous outfits. So next time you pull one out of your closet, remember,it’s all in the details.

The Starless Sea

Have you ever felt homesick for a place you’ve never been to? Or found yourself searching for something without even knowing what it is you’re seeking? That’s the kind of feeling The Starless Sea awakens in you.
Erin Morgenstern, the magician who once bewitched readers with The Night Circus, returned after six long years with this masterpiece and trust me, the wait was worth it. The very title, The Starless Sea, feels like a riddle and opening the book is like stepping into a labyrinth of secrets. If I had to describe it in one word? Mind-bending. Picture this: you’re wandering through your university library, brushing past rows of dusty books, when your hand lands on something strange, an unmarked volume, with only a golden symbol embossed on its cover. Would you open it? Of course, you would. Now imagine flipping through its pages, only to discover a collection of short stories and then suddenly, one of them is yours. A memory from your childhood, written down, dated a hundred years ago. Impossible. And yet, there it is. That’s exactly where Zachary Ezra Rawlins, our protagonist, finds himself. What begins as a mystery quickly spirals into an adventure that is equal parts dangerous and enchanting. Every path he takes might lead to an answer or to someone who wants him dead. Still, the pull of stories is too strong and soon, Zachary is chasing whispers of an underground library, a sanctuary of tales, guarded by a secret society at war with itself, filled with doorways, myths, and cats. Yes cats, lots and lots of cats. Reading this book feels less like reading and more like falling. One moment you’re climbing steadily, page by page and then suddenly you’re plunging, spinning into a sea of honey, disoriented but exhilarated. By the time you turn the last page, you’re left grinning, confused, hollow and yet impossibly full as if stepping off a carnival ride on trembling legs, still trying to trace the loops, only to find that the tracks have already melted away. The beauty of The Starless Sea is that it isn’t just one story. It’s dozens of stories braided together, each complete on its own, but when placed side by side, forming an ever-growing, ever-expanding puzzle. You can sense there’s a grand picture waiting to be revealed except some pieces are missing and maybe they’re missing on purpose. And oh, the characters. Zachary himself is as real and relatable as any reader could hope for : a bookworm, a video game student, a seeker, someone who is stubborn, curious, reckless and quietly yearning for more. He feels written with so much care, you can’t help but slip into his skin and wonder what it would be like to be him. Then there’s Mirabel, a colorful-haired, unpredictable & part-guide savior. She drifts through the pages like a storm and a lullaby at once. And Dorian, the barefoot storyteller who seems spun out of myth himself. With him, Zachary doesn’t just stumble into love, he tumbles headlong. Their story is fragile, fated, and worth every turn of the page. Of course, the book isn’t flawless. Some passages stretch too long, some perspectives feel unnecessary. The pacing is strange, slow, then fast, then dizzying. But strangely, even that feels intentional, like the book itself wants you to lose your balance, to feel the rush and the overwhelm just as Zachary does. Morgenstern plays with form as much as she does with words, at one point, even stripping punctuation to make dialogue buzz like bees in your head. In the end, I’d give it a 4 out of 5. Not perfect, but close enough to magic that you’ll want to re-read it, if only to catch what you missed while falling the first time. And maybe that’s the heart of this book, that stories don’t always have to make sense, not fully. As Morgenstern writes: “Not all stories speak to all listeners, but all listeners can find a story that does, somewhere, sometime. In one form or another.” And if you’re a dreamer, a seeker or simply someone who believes that books can be doors, The Starless Sea might just be the one waiting for you.

Indian New Music Progressing With Old Lyrics

Every family has its own music battle, “Hamare zamane ke gaane alag hi the” versus “Nahi, aaj ka music hi vibe hai!” 
The older generation defends the golden melodies, while today’s youth swear by bass drops and pop beats. Music, after all, isn’t just entertainment anymore, it’s comfort, therapy and sometimes even identity. But somewhere between this tug of war, a new trend took birth, re-created songs. Think of it as a hand-me-down saree stitched into a modern gown. The soul is the same, but the look feels brand new. In Bollywood and Indi-pop, old classics are often repackaged with EDM beats, higher tempo and fresh voices. Sometimes, it feels like a tribute; other times, like an unnecessary remix. So re-creation started as an experiment. Filmmakers wanted music that resonated with their stories but also carried a nostalgic pull. So, composers picked timeless tracks, gave them new arrangements, and sometimes even experimented with tempo and instrumentation. And the reaction? Mixed! Some songs were applauded for breathing new life into forgotten gems. Others were roasted online for “ruining the original.” But the few that worked sparked a trend, turning re-creation into a full-fledged formula. Head over to YouTube, and you’ll find the battlefield. One side floods the comments with “Original is gold!” while another defends the fresh beats. Influencers roast them, memes trend, and comparisons are inevitable. Most often, nostalgia wins, audiences lean toward the originals. Yet, some recreations like “Tamma Tamma Again” or “Humma Song (2.0)” prove that when done right, a re-creation can create its own fanbase. Not all is bad. Re-created songs introduce forgotten classics to Gen Z and millennials. Tunes once lost in vinyl records now live again on Spotify playlists. They also showcase a composer’s creativity, after all, transforming something old without losing its essence is an art in itself. And sometimes, re-creations even travel across languages, helping music cross borders and generations. Yet, amidst all this, one truth stands tall: nothing matches the magic of originals. From Lata Mangeshkar’s soulful renditions to A.R. Rahman’s masterpieces, original compositions are the spine of Indian music. They carry authenticity, emotion, and the stories of their time. As listeners, perhaps it’s not about choosing sides but appreciating both. Originals remind us of roots, while re-creations prove music can be reborn. So the next time you hear an old melody with a modern beat, don’t rush to judge. Instead, think of it as music’s way of telling us: every song deserves a second life. So which side are you on ?

Bollywood Movies Shot In Switzerland: A Panoramic Guide To Films And Swiss Locations

“Snowflakes, chiffon sarees, and timeless songs—Switzerland isn’t just a backdrop in Bollywood, it’s where love itself found a stage.”
When Indian audiences picture love blossoming on a snow-dusted meadow or a red dupatta swirling against deep blue lakes, you know you are watching a Bollywood Movie Shot In Switzerland. From the 1960’s to the streaming era, the film-makers have treated the Swiss Alps as an open-air studio, weaving the country’s postcard vistas into song sequences into emotional crescendos. This article traces that relationship, spotlights landmark movies and maps the real-life location that you can visit even today.

How It All Began | Bollywoods Alpine Romance

Raj Kapoor’s Sangam (1964) is generally credited as Bollywood’s first major incursion into Switzerland, shooting around Geneva’s lake-side malls and introducing Indian cinema-goers to European glamour. But it was Yash Chopra who turned the alpine nation into Bollywood’s longhand for love. Throughout the 1980’s and 1990’s– Chandni (1989), Darr (1993), Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995), and Dil Toh Pagal Hai (1997)— Chopra used snow fields and cable car peaks as visual concepts for love and passion.

10 Iconic Bollywood Films Shot In Switzerland

Switzerland has housed many legendary films which have leveraged Switzerland’s natural splendor to enhance their filmy appeal. Some of the sure-fire movies in the country include:
  • Chandni (1989) – Shot in locations like Lake Geneva and the Swiss alps, alongside Sridevi’s impeccable dance moves, is an absolute banger for the movie buffs. Key Swiss backdrops shown are Gstaad, Saanen and Jungfraujoch.
  • Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995) – Do you remember the iconic railway station in Zweisimmen. This place has become a revered spot for SRK fans.
  • Mohabbatein (2000) – With the grandiose of Amitabh Bachchan and innocence of Aishwarya Rai, this movie changed the narrative of love for the millenials. Majestic castles can be clearly seen in the background.
  • Veer Zara (2004)– This movie made us romanticise cross-border love and yearning. The agrarian landscape in the background is Switzerland.
  • Bachna Ae Haseeno (2008)- The sweet romantic comedy was shot in the picturesque town of Gstaad further opening the doors of tourism. It was one of its kind, new millennial ode to romance across continents which perfectly captured Jungfraujoch Ice palace and Grindelwald.
  • Student Of The Year (2012) – This fast moving Swiss chic romance was set in the backdrop of Lake Thun and Gstaad palace hotel.
 
  • Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani (2023)- Filmed in the Lauterbrunnen valley, the movie’s aesthetic was as perfect as it gets. The songs were shot in and around Mannlichen peak and snow capped ranges.

The Superstar Locations | What They Look Like Off-camera

Gstaad and Saanen (Bernese Oberland)

DDLJ’s playful banter between shahrukh khan and Kajol is shot on the non congested streets of Gstaad. Just outside town peaceful cow pastures double as Yash Raj’s dream escapes. There are cafes in Switzerland that are devoted to Bollywood themes.

Jungfraujoch “Top Of Europe”

At 3454 m, this saddle between Jungfrau and Monch peaks stages dance numbers in Chandni and Bachna Ae Haseeno. The ice palace tunnel– caved inside a glacier– is where Ranbir Kapoor skated with Deepika Padukone.

Interlaken And Hohematte Park

The park’s green lawn backed by harder Kulm ridge framed Madhuri Dixit twirls in Dil Toh Pagal Hai. Paragliders now land where the camera crane once swung.

Glacier 3000 (Les Diablerets)

Suspended 107m above a glacier crevasse, the peak walk bridge provided a heart stopping runway for Hritik Roshan‘s superhero leap in Krrish. In reality, the bridge is a leisurely 5 mins walk with safety rails.

Rhine Falls (Schaffhausen)

Among Europe’s wildest waterfalls, the falls thundered behind Aishwarya rai’s flowing saree in the title song of Taal.

Zurich and Lucerne

Remember the movie Kalyug (2005). The whole movie was shot with its background in Zurich providing the needed bustling streets and building architecture to add depth and graveness to film.

Why Switzerland?

  • Ease of accessA dense network of trains means the crew can shoot snowfields at dawn, lakeside garden at noon and sunsets from anywhere.
  • Reliable weather windowFor a film’s success, it is very important that things follow a schedule. Summer meadows and winter snow are predictable and so is the culmination of the whole film making process.
  • Universal symbolism- Snowy peaks evoke purity and emotional highs, river calm lakes echo self-reflection and villages feel timeless- ready made metaphors that surpass linguistic confinements.

Tops For Planning Your Own Filmy Itinerary

  • Base yourself in Interlaken for quick hops to Jungfraujoch, Lauterbrunnen and Gstaad.
  • Pack layers– even in June- those chiffon sarees hide thermal tights during shots.
  • Respect private property – many meadows are working farms. Ask before entering.
  • Time your visit around the film festival- the annual bollywood openair in Gstaad screens classic outdoors sometimes with surprising star appearances.
For six decades, Switzerland has been more than a pretty backdrop for Hindi cinema; it is a character that mirrors the emotional arcs of lovers running towards, or away, from destiny. From Raj Kapoor’s stunning panoramas to Karan Johar’s glossy 4K drone shots, the Alps stands for everything Bollywood holds dear – Grandeur, innocence and the promise that love, like the mountains, endures. The next time you hum a hit Hindi song, remember: the magic is real and it awaits as 46° N, 8.5° E. Pack your camera and maybe a bright red saree.

Top 5 Women Entrepreneurs in India

“Every time a woman dares to dream, she doesn’t just build a business, she builds a legacy. From travel to technology, women across India are proving that being a woman is not a limitation, it is the greatest superpower of all.”
Here are 5 women entrepreneurs who dared to make all the difference : 1.  Sabina Chopra – The Queen of Online Travel

When you log on to Yatra.com today, it feels like a natural choice, one of India’s most trusted online travel portals. But what we often forget is that this trust was built on the shoulders of a woman who dared to dream differently. Sabina Chopra started her career in the travel and outsourcing industries, where she gathered deep insights about consumer behavior and the challenges of a developing market. In 2006, she co-founded Yatra.com, at a time when online bookings were almost unheard of in India. Building Yatra was no easy feat, customers were skeptical of paying online, internet penetration was low, and competition was beginning to heat up. But Sabina stayed firm in her belief that India would eventually embrace the digital shift in travel. Her real test, however, came during the tragic 26/11 attacks in Mumbai. The hospitality and travel industries were shaken, and Yatra faced heavy setbacks. For many, this would have been the end of the road. But Sabina stood tall, rebuilt her company, and steered it back on course.

Website- www.yatra.com Her resilience paid off, Yatra.com went on to become a household name in travel, securing a strong market share and transforming how India books its holidays. Over the years, she has been recognized with several prestigious awards including the Women Leader of the Year Award and the Women Empowerment Award. Sabina’s story isn’t just about building a successful company, it is about showing the world that determination can turn challenges into stepping stones. 2. Aditi Gupta – Changing the Conversation on Menstruation

For decades, menstruation in India was treated like a shadow subject. It was spoken about in whispers, wrapped in myths, and surrounded by shame. Growing up, Aditi Gupta herself experienced the confusion and embarrassment that came with this silence. But instead of letting it defeat her, she decided to change it, for herself and for millions of young girls like her. In 2012, Aditi, along with her husband Tuhin Paul, founded Menstrupedia. What started as an idea soon turned into a revolutionary educational initiative. They created comic books that explained menstruation in a language young girls could understand, through simple words, friendly illustrations, and relatable stories. These books didn’t just explain the biology of periods, they broke taboos, busted myths, and gave confidence to girls who were often made to feel ashamed of a natural process.

Website- www.menstrupedia.com Today, Menstrupedia is being used in over 6,000 schools across India and has reached more than 15 countries. It has empowered millions of young girls with knowledge and dignity. Aditi’s vision was recognized globally, she was named in Forbes India’s 30 Under 30 and featured in several international platforms as a changemaker. But the true success of her work lies in the classrooms where girls now talk about periods openly, without shame. Aditi didn’t just start a company, she started a movement, one that continues to ripple across borders. 3. Falguni Nayar – The Woman Who Dreamed Big at 50

In the world of startups, stories often celebrate young entrepreneurs who disrupt industries in their twenties. But Falguni Nayar’s story redefined what it means to dream. After a long and successful career as an investment banker at Kotak Mahindra, where she advised some of India’s biggest corporates, she decided to take a leap of faith. At the age of 50, when many consider slowing down, she chose to start all over again. In 2012, she launched Nykaa, an online beauty and lifestyle retailer. At the time, India’s beauty industry was fragmented, with global giants controlling most of the market and limited accessibility for Indian consumers. Falguni saw an opportunity,  she wanted to create a platform that would give Indians access to authentic, high-quality beauty products with the convenience of online shopping. Starting small, she built Nykaa brick by brick, focusing on curating trusted brands, building strong customer service, and most importantly, understanding the unique needs of the Indian woman.

Website: www.nykaa.com 

Her vision paid off, Nykaa became a household name, revolutionizing how Indians shop for beauty and personal care. In 2021, it became one of the rare woman-led companies to go public, making headlines across the globe. Today, Falguni Nayar is celebrated as India’s wealthiest self-made woman, featuring on the IIFL Wealth Hurun India Rich List 2022. But beyond the numbers and accolades, her journey is a message, that age is never a barrier when your dreams are backed with courage.

4. Malika Datt Sadani – Building a Brand for Mothers, by a Mother

Some stories are written not in boardrooms but in the quiet moments of motherhood. Malika Datt Sadani’s journey is one such example. A banker by profession, her life took a new turn after the birth of her two daughters. As a mother, she wanted the safest, most natural products for her children. But what she found instead was disappointment, most products in the Indian market were loaded with chemicals, toxins, and artificial ingredients. This gap struck her deeply. Why should mothers have to compromise on safety when it came to their children? With that question in mind, she set out to create a solution. In 2016, Malika founded The Moms Co., a brand that promised toxin-free, natural products designed specially for mothers and babies. Her brand quickly struck a chord with parents across the country, offering everything from skincare to nutrition, products that parents could trust without second-guessing.

Website- www.themomsco.com Her journey was not without challenges, building awareness about toxin-free products, gaining consumer trust, and competing in a crowded FMCG space was tough. But Malika’s authenticity and her own experience as a mother resonated with her audience. Today, The Moms Co. has grown into one of India’s most trusted mom-and-baby brands. For Malika, the biggest reward isn’t just sales or success, it is the gratitude of mothers who finally feel heard and supported. 5 Sairee Chahal – Founder & CEO, SHEROES “When women support women, revolutions are born.” Sairee Chahal is the visionary behind SHEROES, India’s largest women-only community platform, offering opportunities, guidance, and a safe space for millions of women. With her unique community-meets-technology approach, she has set out to transform the lives of 100 million women, redefining how women connect, work, and grow in a digital era. Her story begins at the age of just 17, when she left home to study Russian at Jawaharlal Nehru University. By the time she finished, she had already worked with several embassies, a rare achievement for someone so young. She went on to co-found Newslink Services in 1999, later worked with CII and Heidrick & Struggles, and eventually launched SAITA Consulting to support tech start-ups. But her tryst with countless women professionals inspired her to take a leap, and what started as Fleximoms soon grew into something much larger, SHEROES. Website- sheroes.com Today, SHEROES is a thriving network of over 16 million women, connecting them through careers, health, entrepreneurship, relationships, and even a dedicated helpline. It has created more than 10,000 remote work opportunities, hosted India’s largest women’s forum The SHEROES Summit, and grown further through acquisitions like Gharkamai, LoveDoctor, and Maya. For her pioneering work, Sairee has been celebrated with honors including the Devi Award, Femina Achievers Award, Cartier Award, and recognition among the Most Powerful Women in Indian Business. Beyond awards, her mission is clear: to take conversations around women, careers, and empowerment into every school, college, workplace, and small town of India. For Sairee, SHEROES isn’t just a company—it’s a movement proving that when women rise, nations rise.
Sairee, Sabina, Aditi, Falguni, and Malika, five women, five journeys, one truth. They dared to dream, they dared to fight, and they dared to rise. Their stories remind us that being a woman is not just about surviving the odds; it is about rewriting them. And that is the greatest superpower of all.