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Multidisciplinary artist Jonna Hansen found comfort and refuge in art and creativity. As a trans woman with autism, this society does not belong to her. “There seems to be an infinite supply of ideas and energy inside of me, and trying to turn that into something of value is more of an urge than a decision,”  She says in an interview with metal magazine. We re-publish her work with courtesy to Jonna Hansen.

We showcase her work Alien Fashion, a collection of CGI-generated images that portray aliens in imaginary clothes.

“My goal was to create something as subtly foreign and unfamiliar as possible. The human body wouldn’t have gotten me far there. So ‘they’ had to be something else – doesn’t matter what, just not human,”  Jonna Hansen.

Enjoy  a stunning digital clothing collection for nonhuman bodies and comment your thoughts.

Jonna Hansen’s Alien Wardrobe

Our skin is more than just our largest organ.

It protects us, keeping pathogens and viruses out of our body, and the good stuff – us- in.

Skincare needs vary throughout the year due to the changing weather and environmental conditions associated with different seasons. Adapting your skincare routine to each season helps keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and protected. Here’s a guide to skincare in different seasons:

Spring:

1. Cleansing: Use a gentle cleanser to remove any residual winter dryness and prepare your skin for the warmer months.
2. Exfoliation: Opt for a mild exfoliant to slough off dead skin cells and reveal a fresh complexion.
3. Hydration: Transition to a lighter moisturizer to provide adequate hydration without clogging pores.
4. Sun Protection: Begin incorporating sunscreen with at least SPF 30 as the sun’s intensity increases.

Summer:

1. Sun Protection: Prioritize sunscreen with a higher SPF (at least 30) and reapply every two hours if spending time outdoors.
2. Lightweight Products: Switch to lightweight, oil-free moisturizers and gel-based serums to prevent excess oiliness.
3. Hydration: Stay hydrated both internally and externally by using a hydrating mist throughout the day.
4. Cleansing: Double cleanse if you’re wearing sunscreen or makeup to ensure your skin is thoroughly clean.

Fall:

1. Moisturization: As the weather gets cooler, switch to a richer moisturizer to combat dryness and maintain skin’s hydration.
2. Repair: Incorporate products with antioxidants like vitamin C to repair any summer sun damage.
3. Hydration: Consider using a hydrating serum to lock in moisture and prevent moisture loss.
4. Lip Care: Start using a nourishing lip balm to prevent chapping as the air becomes drier.

Winter:

1. Hydration: Use a thicker, emollient moisturizer to provide extra protection against cold winds and dry air.
2. Humidification: Invest in a humidifier to add moisture to indoor air and prevent excessive skin dryness.
3. Exfoliation: Limit exfoliation to once a week to avoid over-drying the skin.
4. Lip Care: Regularly apply a rich, hydrating lip balm to prevent chapped lips.
5. Sunscreen: Don’t skip sunscreen even in winter, as the sun’s UV rays can still cause damage.

Year-Round Tips:

1. Hydration: Drink plenty of water and use hydrating skincare products to maintain skin’s moisture balance.
2. Diet and Nutrition: Consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats to support skin health.
3. Regular Cleansing: Cleanse your face twice a day to remove dirt, oil, and makeup.
4. Consistent Skincare Routine: Establish a consistent routine tailored to your skin type and concerns.
5. Patch Test: Always perform a patch test before introducing new products to avoid adverse reactions.
6. Consult a Professional: If you experience persistent skin issues, consult a dermatologist for personalized advice.

Remember that your skin’s needs can vary, so adjust your skincare routine based on how your skin responds to the changing seasons. By adapting your regimen and addressing specific seasonal challenges, you can maintain healthy and radiant skin year-round.

What defines a fair, good, bad skin?

The terms “fair,” “good,” and “bad” skin are subjective and can vary greatly based on cultural, societal, and personal perceptions. These terms are often used to describe the appearance and condition of the skin, but it’s important to note that beauty standards and opinions on skin vary widely.

1. Fair Skin:

• Fair skin typically refers to a lighter complexion with less melanin, which can make veins and undertones more visible.
• In some cultures, fair skin has been historically associated with beauty and privilege, leading to a preference for lighter skin tones.
• However, it’s crucial to recognize that all skin tones are beautiful, and the concept of “fair” skin as being superior is not accurate or inclusive.

2. Good Skin:

• Good skin is often used to describe skin that appears healthy, clear, and well-maintained.
• Characteristics of good skin may include an even complexion, minimal blemishes, a smooth texture, and a natural glow.
• Good skin can be achieved through a consistent skincare routine, a balanced diet, staying hydrated, protecting against sun damage, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

3. Bad Skin:

• The term “bad skin” is subjective and can have negative connotations. It is often used to describe skin with issues such as acne, uneven texture, dryness, oiliness, or other visible imperfections.
• It’s important to approach the idea of “bad” skin with empathy and understanding, as skin conditions can be influenced by genetics, hormones, environmental factors, and overall health.
• Dermatological conditions and concerns like acne, eczema, psoriasis, and hyperpigmentation should be addressed with proper medical care and support, rather than being judged as indicative of “bad” skin.

It’s worth emphasizing that beauty and self-worth are not determined solely by the appearance of the skin. Every individual’s skin is unique, and the perception of skin quality can be influenced by cultural norms, personal preferences, and societal pressures. Rather than categorizing skin as “fair,” “good,” or “bad,” it’s essential to focus on maintaining healthy skin, embracing one’s natural complexion, and promoting positive self-esteem and body image.

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Body is the new social wall

Ever wished for a tattoo on your ‘much-imagined’ body? 

Welcome to the tribe. Tattooing left its moral boundaries of taboo and gained more acceptance among different generations. We talked to a mom and daughter who came for their piece of body part in the neighborhood tattoo studio in Bangalore.

Before getting inside the most popular tattoo studios of Bangalore and new flash designs, let us have some tattoo theory! 

We learned about tattoos in high school textbooks!. In a different period of history, (too early ) we have seen pictures of people with wild body art. Split the history of body art into three points. Ancient tribal cultures wrote a lot on  their  bodies. It entered into the modern scene in 70’s counter-cultural movements. Then indeed to Silicon Valley before reaching into our identity play. Also we heard story of a tattoo startup raised $20Billion for their ink.

Another question for digital diggers;

Why do we tattoo? Three or more right or ‘looks like right’ answers.

It can be a strong personal statement about our identity. If someone is looking for power and authority, a tattoo artist will suggest a combination of lion and eagle. It depends on who you are and how you want to bring it out through your flash. Before going to meet the artist, do some research and take some references. Your design chat will be more creative and you will get what you are looking for.

Your cause matters here. #BLM in America plays as a main theme in tattoos across black and white people there. From girl power to climate change; it’s time to pick your cause and print it on your body.

It has a healing touch from a mental health perspective. Tattoo artist Sadan says sometimes it feels like therapy. Memories, trauma and life lived to become a permanent source to write something on your body. 

Bring your own reasons to the table. One street tattoo artist told us that people sometimes want to do it like a religious ritual. 

Tattoo machines are more precise now for better design detailing. The value or demand of a tattoo artist depends on the flashes she is offering. Each tattoo artist has their own set of flashes to choose from. 

Find the best tattoo artist in Bangalore here.

Tattoo festivals are also on the rise where you can explore different tattoo artists in the town. 

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#TRENDS

Minimalism and Fine Lines

Recently, minimalist tattoos and fine lines have surged in popularity. This trend focuses on simplicity and subtlety. It utilizes delicate designs and precise linework to create elegant pieces of body art. Minimalist tattoos can be spotted by small symbols, geometric patterns, or single-line drawings. It allows us to express ourselves without overwhelming our skin with bold imagery.

Watercolour Tattoos

No explanation is needed if you know about the style of watercolour. Watercolour tattoos feature soft and blended hues, resembling the fluidity and artistic freedom of traditional watercolour artworks. These tattoos often lack harsh outlines and instead incorporate gentle brushstrokes, creating a dreamy and whimsical effect.

Dotwork and Geometric Tattoos

Dotwork and geometric tattoos have been gaining popularity among those seeking intricate and mesmerizing body art. Dotwork tattoos are created by applying tiny dots to form intricate patterns and images, while geometric tattoos utilise geometric shapes and patterns to craft stunning designs that symbolise harmony, balance, and symmetry.

Cultural and Symbolic Tattoos

In recent times, there has been a resurgence of interest in cultural and symbolic tattoos, with people embracing designs that pay homage to their heritage, ancestry, or personal beliefs. These tattoos serve as a powerful way to connect with one’s roots and celebrate diverse cultural traditions.

3D and Hyper-realism Tattoos

 Advancements in tattooing technology and techniques have paved the way for hyper-realistic tattoos. These masterpieces are so lifelike that they can often be mistaken for actual photographs. Artists skilled in this style use shadows, highlights, and intricate detailing to create realistic portraits and images, turning human skin into a canvas for photo-realistic art.

Sustainability and Vegan Inks

In line with the global movement toward sustainability and ethical consumption, many tattoo artists and enthusiasts are now opting for vegan inks and sustainable practices. Vegan tattoo inks do not contain animal-derived ingredients and are not tested on animals, making them a cruelty-free choice for eco-conscious individuals.

In the last decade, tattooing has transformed into a celebrated art form, evolving with the times and embracing diverse trends. From minimalist designs to hyperrealism, each style represents a unique facet of an individual’s personality, identity and journey. As this form of expression continues to thrive and evolve, tattooing remains a timeless and powerful way for people to wear their stories on their skin, making a lasting impression on both themselves and the world around them.

This is part 1 of a series of articles about tattooing. We will also have a video and guide about tattooing soon. Subscribe to our newsletters or follow our social media to find the best reasons to tattoo or hate it!

 

7 new must try fillings for home or street

The beautiful cane made spiral stand on the street, a round shaped Chinese magic lantern like golden balls of pani puri, an active boy busy with selling, a diverse crowd around waiting eagerly  for their turn to get their ball of happiness. Still you don’t understand what is happening here, Just go to the street this evening after 6, and try a plate of pani puri. Then buy a packet and try these filling at your home or on the street.

Chocolate Pani Puri

Calling all you chocoholics out there, brace yourselves for a mind-blowing treat! Imagine this: Golgappas that flaunt a luscious coat of chocolate, and inside, a medley of nuts and vibrant candies dance together. But wait, there’s more – a velvety milkshake on the side that’s pure perfection. Brace yourself for an innovative delight that’s utterly irresistible. Trust me, you won’t forget this exquisite, one-of-a-kind Panipuri experience.

Fruity Pani Puri

Hold onto your taste buds, folks, because this one’s a game-changer! Say hello to Fruity Panipuri, a quirky twist that deserves a spot on your foodie bucket list. Just imagine this burst of flavours: juicy mango, muskmelon, cherries, guava, pear, a pinch of black pepper, a squeeze of zesty lemon juice, all mingling with a hint of salt. It’s a symphony of taste that’ll have you hooked from the very first bite. The best part? You can even indulge in this fruity sensation during your fasting days.

Jhat-pat Panipuri

Get ready for a lightning-fast flavor explosion! In this version, tangy black grape juice steps in for the traditional tamarind water, creating an exquisite twist. Picture this: whole green gram, tender boiled green peas, and crunchy chopped onions coming together in a burst of texture and taste. And here’s the secret sauce – water, my friends, is the magic ingredient that elevates this golgappa to healthy awesomeness. Crave it any time, because it’s as quick as it is delicious.

Normal Pani Puri

Let’s give a round of applause to the classic Normal Panipuri! This superstar is a crowd-pleaser all across India. It’s a familiar burst of flavors – the depth of black salt, the sweetness of mango pulp, the warmth of cumin seeds, and a touch of chilli powder and salt. And guess what? Boiled chana makes an appearance, adding that extra protein punch. Every bite is a symphony of traditional taste that never goes out of style.

Mumbai Pani Puri

Mumbai, stand up for your iconic Panipuri! Prepare for a roller coaster of flavors – a tangy sweet chutney and a fiery kick of spicy water, all harmonizing perfectly. The heart of this golgappa boasts mixed sprouts, mashed potatoes, a dash of chilli powder, a sprinkle of black salt, and the earthy allure of coriander-cumin seeds. Every bite is an ode to the vibrant spirit of Mumbai, bursting with diverse flavors that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Thai Pani Puri

Travel to Thailand with each tantalizing bite of Thai Panipuri! Here’s the twist: mixed vegetables and a hint of coconut salt steal the show. It’s a flavor-packed journey to Southeast Asia, featuring a mouthwatering combo of coconut milk powder, creamy milk, butter, a colorful mix of veggies, zesty green chilies, and aromatic ginger-garlic paste. A touch of salt ties it all together, delivering an exotic explosion that’ll leave you craving for more.

Mango Pani Puri

Embark on a mango-infused adventure with Mango Panipuri! Experience the tangy allure of chat masala combined with the tropical sweetness of mango. Imagine treating your party guests to this unique delight, watching their faces light up with newfound exotic happiness. It’s a taste of summer in every bite, a flavor symphony that’s perfect for celebrations or simply indulging in pure mango joy.

Three Indian great masalas from different parts of India. For your kitchen.

Meet Bafat from Mangalore, Rechad from Goa and Bottle Masala from Bomaby  to give an ethnic character to  your kitchen. These multi purpose masalas  have  a long shelf life if once it is made and it brings an air of culture and tradition to your kitchen  from its places of origin. 

The Bafat Masala

The Bafat Powder, also known as ‘bafad,’ is an essential spice blend found in the kitchens of Mangaloreans, especially among the Catholic community. This flavorful mixture is particularly cherished by those who frequently prepare and savour the mouth watering ‘Dukramaas’ (Pork Bafat style). This dish stands out as both simple and incredibly delicious, with the added bonus of improving in taste when reheated on the second and third days. The preparation demands minimal effort, primarily involving the chopping of ingredients, which might take some time depending on the quantity being made.

Bafat powder can be crafted and stored for up to a year or even longer. While it is readily available in most Mangalorean and Goan stores that stock local products, the homemade variant prevails due to its freshness and aromatic quality when stored properly. Its versatility extends to the point where the powder, excluding the garam masala can be swiftly employed to create delectable fish curries. It can be used  in ample amounts, across a range of dishes such as Chicken sukka (Dry Coconut Chicken), Chicken curry, fish curry, and vegetable sukka (stir-fried vegetables with grated coconut).

Notably, it has become a staple for approximately 99% of Mangaloreans, finding its place on the ‘must-buy’ list whenever they return from abroad. Therefore, stores like Konkan Traders, Don Stores, and Costa Bakery consistently keep their shelves stocked with this sought-after item throughout the year.

While one could theoretically substitute Bafat powder with regular chilli powder, turmeric, and coriander powder, the end result never quite matches the perfection achieved with the original Bafat blend. As the adage goes, some things are best left untouched, preserving their originality.

Yield: Approx one and a half kilos

You Need:

• 150gms Kashmiri chillies
• 400gms Long red chillies (also called as ‘Kumta’ & ‘Kumti’ mirsaang in Konkani) *see note below
• 200gms Short red chillies (also known as Madrasi chillies)
• 500gms Coriander (dhania)
• 40gms Cumin (jeera)
• 25gms Peppercorns (miri/kali mirch)
• 50gms Turmeric Powder (haldi) (If you can manage to use dried pieces of Turmeric (haldiche kudke), it is even better)

Method:
Use a dry grinder to powder all the above ingredients to a fine powder, store in an airtight container and use as required

Note:
1. If the Kumti chillies (long ones) are unavailable, just use Kashmiri chillies instead (i.e. increase it to a total of 550gms instead of 150gms). However, the short red chillies are very important to achieve the desired spiciness & fragrance of the Bafat powder
2. This recipe is for the Bafat powder without the garam masala (cloves & cinnamon), hence it is very versatile and can be used for fish/veg preparations which do not require garam masala. When you use it for meat preparations such as Pork, add about 4 cloves and 1 inch piece of cinnamon for every 1 kg of meat.

Goan Rachad Masala

The culinary world of Goa resembles a vibrant kaleidoscope, brimming with an array of flavours and spices. This remarkable fusion owes its character to the intricate interplay of Indian, Portuguese, and Southeast Asian influences, resulting in a delightful medley that continuously captivates the palate. It’s akin to a delectable melting pot, an adventure that promises delightful surprises with each twist and turn. Envision yourself reclining on the sun-kissed beaches of Goa, indulging in the crisp refreshment of coconut water, and relishing a plate adorned with the zesty allure of vindaloo or curry. These iconic dishes are veritable legends, harmonising the perfect equilibrium between spiciness and flavour, producing a symphony that will serenade your taste buds.

For those who relish the pleasures of seafood, a delectable experience awaits, as Goan cuisine has gained renown for its offerings of fresh and succulent marine delights, including prawn balchao, fish curry, and crab xec xec. These dishes exude the vibrant essence of coastal life and promise an exhilarating journey for your taste buds. The culinary landscape of Goa is a testament to the fusion of diverse cultures and influences, a reflection of the state’s rich historical tapestry. Its origins can be traced back to the 16th century when Portuguese dominion prevailed over Goa. With the Portuguese came novel ingredients, culinary techniques, and recipes, which harmonised with the local Indian gastronomy, culminating in the birth of an entirely new culinary identity.

A noteworthy contribution by the Portuguese to Goan culinary traditions was the introduction of vinegar, employed as a preservative for meats and fish in the absence of refrigeration. This innovation paved the way for the evolution of delectable dishes such as vindaloo, a piquant curry featuring pork or beef marinated in a blend of vinegar and spices. The geographical proximity of Goa to the coast also wielded considerable influence over its gastronomy. The bounteous waters surrounding Goa teeming with seafood treasures like fish, prawns, crabs, and lobsters, forming an integral cornerstone of the state’s culinary legacy. Goan seafood preparations are celebrated for their robust and aromatic masalas, uniting indigenous spices with discernible Portuguese inspirations.

Fish recheado stands as a beloved Goan delicacy, spotlighting a whole fish, typically pomfret or kingfish, generously stuffed with a zesty and tangy recheado masala, a blend of spices that ignites the taste buds. This masala is expertly fashioned by melding together an array of elements, including red chillies, cumin, coriander, garlic, ginger, and tamarind paste, harmoniously united with either vinegar or lemon juice. The origins of fish recheado harken back to the era when Goa was governed by Portuguese rule, emerging as a culinary solution for preparing fresh fish in the absence of refrigeration.

The term “recheado” derives from the Portuguese word “recheio,” signifying stuffing. This creation likely emerged from Goan culinary artisans influenced by Portuguese practices of utilizing spices and vinegar to marinate and safeguard meats and seafood. The recheado masala encompasses a rich blend of spices, including red chillies, cumin, coriander, garlic, ginger, turmeric, tamarind, and either vinegar or lemon juice. This versatile masala serves as a superb marinade and stuffing for an assortment of meats and seafood, spanning fish, prawns, chicken, and pork. Originally devised to preserve meats and seafood sans refrigeration, the vinegar within the masala served as a natural preservative, while the amalgamation of spices elevated the dish’s flavor profile.

Gradually, the employment of recheado expanded, evolving into an intrinsic facet of Goan gastronomy, imparting a unique character to numerous traditional preparations. Presently, recheado masala is a widespread presence in Goan cuisine, prominently featured in dishes like fish recheado, prawn recheado, and chicken recheado. This spice blend’s adaptability has secured its place as a staple in countless Goan households, persisting as a cherished constituent of the state’s illustrious culinary heritage.

Fish recheado presents a tantalizing and zesty culinary offering characterized by its piquant and tangy essence. The fish undergoes a luxurious soak in a luscious and robust recheado masala, a marriage of spices, vinegar, and tamarind paste that imparts a distinct tartness. Through this process, the fish tenderly absorbs the intricate flavors of the masala, rendering it a delectable amalgamation of savoriness and spice, punctuated by a delicate hint of sweetness from the tamarind infusion. An aromatic symphony arises from the harmonious convergence of the spices and the fish’s innate oils, producing an inviting fragrance that beckons the senses. In totality, fish recheado emerges as an exquisite and flavorsome masterpiece, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the opulent culinary legacy of Goa.

Measuring cup used, 1 cup = 250 ml, 1 tsp = 5 ml

• 100 grams dried Kashmiri chillies
• 1 large garlic bulb, about 75 grams
• 1 inch ginger root
• 1 tsp peppercorns
• 1/2 tbsp cloves
• 5 green cardamom
• 2- inch cinnamon stick
• 1/3 cup tamarind
• 3/4 cup red wine vinegar/Goan vinegar/white distilled vinegar
• 1/4 cup Feni (optional, skip if you don’t have), If using it, then reduce the vinegar to 1/2 cup
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 3 tsp salt, or to taste
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 & 1/2 cup purified water, or as required

Instructions 

1. Peel the garlic, chop the ginger in smaller pieces.
2. Discard the stalks of the chillies, and deseed half of them (or as per your spice preference)
3. In an electric mixer/grinder, add all the ingredients except the water, pulse everything, add water gradually as required, to make a very smooth but thick paste.
4. Heat oil in a heavy bottomed pan, add the ground masala, cook for about 5 minutes on medium heat until the mixture begins to bubble up.
5. Let it cool to room temperature. Transfer to an airtight container, cover and store it in the refrigerator. Use as required. 

Bottle Masala

The history of East Indian Bottle Masala traces back to the unique culinary traditions of the East Indian community, predominantly found in the Mumbai region and parts of Maharashtra, India. This masala blend is a distinct and essential component of their cuisine, representing a fusion of Indian, Portuguese, and local influences.

The East Indian community has a rich cultural heritage that has been shaped by centuries of history. Descendants of the original inhabitants of the region, who were converted to Christianity by Portuguese colonizers, the East Indians developed their own customs, traditions, and way of life. This distinct identity is also reflected in their culinary practices, with the East Indian Bottle Masala being a prime example.

The term “Bottle Masala” originates from the method of preserving and storing the masala blend. Traditionally, the masala would be ground, roasted, and then meticulously packed into glass bottles, which were sealed tightly. This ensured the preservation of the masala’s freshness and flavors over extended periods of time.

The recipe for East Indian Bottle Masala typically involves a complex combination of various spices, each carefully selected and blended to create a unique flavor profile. Ingredients often include a medley of aromatic spices like cloves, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, peppercorns, and others. The proportions and selection of spices can vary from one family or household to another, contributing to the distinctive nature of each bottle masala blend.

Historically, the East Indian Bottle Masala was a hallmark of family recipes and culinary heritage, passed down through generations. It was used in a wide array of East Indian dishes, adding depth, complexity, and a burst of flavours to traditional preparations like curries, stews, and marinades.

The masala’s significance goes beyond its culinary role. It’s a cultural symbol, embodying the history, traditions, and sense of community of the East Indian people. In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve and promote the East Indian Bottle Masala, recognizing its importance as a cultural treasure and a testament to the community’s enduring legacy.

Today, the East Indian Bottle Masala continues to be cherished among the East Indian community and those who appreciate the unique flavours it brings to a variety of dishes. It remains a testament to the rich tapestry of India’s diverse culinary heritage, blending influences from different cultures into a single, flavorful expression.

Ingredients  

• 250 grams Kashmir Chillies Kashmiri Mirch
• 25 grams Reshampati Chillies Reshampatti Mirch
• 25 grams “Goa” Chillies Goa Mirch
• 100 grams Coriander seeds Dhania
• 20 grams Cumin seeds Jeera
• 20 grams Black Peppercorns Kali Mirch
• 20 grams Wheat Gehu
• 40 grams Sesame seeds Til
• 40 grams Poppy seeds Khus khus
• 40 grams Mustard seeds Rai
• 40 grams Chick Peas Chana dal
• 6 inches Cinnamon sticks Dal Chini
• 7 piece Cardamom Elaichi
• 12 piece Cloves Laung
• 30 grams Turmeric Haldi
• 1 teaspoon Asafoetida Hing
• 1 teaspoon Nutmeg Jaiphal
• 1 teaspoon Mace Javitri
• 1 teaspoon Mugwort Maipatri
• 1 teaspoon Cobra Saffron Seeds Nagkesar
• 1 teaspoon Sichuan Peppercorns tirphal
• 1 teaspoon Allspice Kababchini
• 1 teaspoon Star anise Bhadyan
• 1 teaspoon Fennel Seeds Saunf
• 1 teaspoon Fenugreek Seeds Methi seeds
• 1 teaspoon Bay leaves Sambharpan
• 1 teaspoon Stone Flower Dagarphul
• 1 teaspoon Black Cumin Shahi Jeera

Instructions 

1. Dry all the ingredients under hot sun consecutively for 2 days. Alternatively, you can dry roast the ingredients in a hot pan until you smell their fragrance.
2. If dry roasting, start with chillies by discarding their stems and breaking them into two parts.
3. Put a wide frying pan on low flame & gently roast until their skin darkens slightly. Keep stirring continuously.
4. Similarly, roast the rest of the ingredients for 7-8 mins on low heat or until they are very fragrant and aromatic. Keep stirring in between.
5. The ingredients with quantities of 1 teaspoon (each) can be roasted together.
6. Let all the roasted ingredients cool to room temperature before moving to the next step.
7. Put all the ingredients in a dry spice grinder and run the machine until the spices are finely powdered.
8. Sieve and repeat this procedure with the thicker pieces remaining in the sieve.
9. Allow the ground mixture to cool and store in a sterilised airtight bottle or container.
10. Store it away from heat and sunlight preferably in the refrigerator.

Notes

• This recipe yields about 700 gms of Bottle Masala – probably the most complex spice blend in India or maybe the world.
• Roast the ingredients in a heavy bottom frying pan on low heat to avoid burning. 
• Ingredients can be roasted in an electric oven as well. 
• Ideally, the grinding of the spices should be done in a manual pounding mill, however, if speed is of essence you can opt for a dry grinder.

We are not earning any affiliate  commission for curated products. Our editors are independently curating products for  our members. Become a 69Mutual Club member for full access & benefits from our partners and friends.

Z69 i-Commerce Wing

Sameera, who is an IT professional recently went to IKEA Hyderabad just to buy a lamp. Later, she ended up at the counter with a 6 feet tall bill of numerous items. She posted it humorously on X and it went viral. And there was no lamp in her cart. She totaaly  forgot to buy the lamp. 

IKEA is a place    where we forget about the ‘lamp’ and  discover something new for our  living spaces. There are many budget  items in every category and we have to really spend some time finding them.

Here is the well curated list of budget items under 500 rupees for small and medium types of living spces. 

Artistic Hook | BÄSTIS

Wall Shelf | BURHULT

SLIBB Hanger with 8 grip clips

 Collage frame for 4 photos | YLLEVAD

Pegboard with letters  | SVENSÅS

Stool | MARIUS

Door Mat | GÅNGBRO

Shoe Rack | GREJIG

Slippers | TÅSJÖN

Clock | KLOCKIS

Anonymously U is an identity we created for couples who share their intimate life anonymously. Anyone can share their experience in this space. We should keep your real name and identity unrevealed. 

This story includes adult language, discussion of sex and sexuality. Reader discretion is advised

OK, I got it. I am the bad guy here. Let me start first, I am HIM. Onward.

We have been living together (Me and She) for like three and half years now. I know, I’m usually not the long-term type (definitely three’s long for me) – my ‘thing’ usually lasts just a few months. Don’t worry,hold your culture shock, I am not fully Indian. It’s not that I don’t enjoy going long term. I dig doing everyday stuff with HER, you know, like cooking together and picking out furniture ( Not much). The thing is, I just need some real excitement in my life.

Before HER, I cheated with around 15 other women (Numbers changed to avoid panic!). I wish I could blame it on my looks, but I’m not some super handsome or crazy smart guy like you judged already. I guess I’m just good at asking small questions, and that makes people open up slowly first and unstoppable later. Most of the time, I end up having affairs with people I work with(Not advised to imitate in your workplace). I can literally point out all the women from work who’ve been in my bed in staff photos. I know what you are always thinking when looking at staff photos. 

SHE and I get together at HER place for some experimental long durational erotic act. I’ve got my own style – super slow and contemplative. The first time we did it, SHE was probably freaked out because I was kissing HER everywhere, even the backs of HER knees. SHE kept telling me to hurry up, but I was playing my own game. Lover is an artist , you know? It’s like dancing to the rhythm of bodies. I’ve spent a ton of time getting good at my performance art.

Our sex can last four hours. Long durational sex is a lost art. But we always take a break in the middle to chat. I have TDX (Topic During Sex)  list of topics on my phone, and I randomly pick one to start a real heart-to-heart – it could be exes, terrible dates, or even orgasms. SHE is a riot, super funny and charming, and I love playing  with HER about all our intimate stuff. At first, I spilled my guts just to make HER laugh, but now I kinda like the feeling of opening up. After lying to women for 12 years, this honesty thing has a whole new vibe.

I haven’t chased after another woman since the first time I hooked up with HER, so in a way, this is like my first-ever exclusive thing. I’m still under the same roof as HER, but we hardly share a bed anymore. SHE only hangs out with me once a week because she says I start to bug HER after 24 hours. Her straight-up honesty keeps me on my toes.

HE is like my Saturday  night boyfriend, you know? The first time we hooked up was on a weekend trip to Nandi Hills , and it happened to be a Saturday, so that kinda stuck as our special day.

I was into long term or eternal love affairs for years , and that whole thing turned me off by patriarchal sh*t  and from boys. . Most guys in their 20s are seeing moms in me/us  to clean up their place and dress. Props to HIM , though – he can cook up a mean dinner. But I’m all about having my own space and being in charge. If HE crashes at my place for more than one night, we end up arguing about petty stuff, like garbage bag. 

So, before I got with HIM , I had no clue he was such a self hugging sex monk. I mean, the guy always looked so ‘zen’sual and put together. The first time we had sex, I was totally thrown off because he took things super slow (He calls it  contemplative, I think it is from Tantric ).  He went around licking every inch of my body . I was worried I’d never catch some sleep after that.

Once I got used to how he plays, I started to really enjoy myself. The guy takes serious pride in what he does, and it totally comes through. HE can spend a whole hour just giving me a massage before we even think about getting naked. I’d never been with a dude so into focusing on his lovemaking talent. He sees himself as some kind of love artist.

Now, here’s the crazy part – HE cheated on every woman he’s been with, but somehow, HE hasn’t pulled that with me yet. I could let a one-night thing slide, but if HE started seeing someone else on Saturday, that’s a deal-breaker for me.

Sometimes I crash at HIS place when his wife is away. The dude takes pictures of all HIS little decorations before I show up, so HE can put everything back exactly where it was after I leave. I’m pretty sure his wife suspects something. I mean, I’d know if some other woman had been in my house. Maybe it is good for both of us – she gets a husband side of HIM , and I get holy f* sex.

A cam-girl’s on/offline life caught-in-between un/real

Marcela Jacobina directs an anti fairytale following a cam-girl caught between her online persona and the struggles of her reality

In the digital age, the lives we construct online are not always a reflection of the realities that play out around us. Presenting a utopic vision of the version of ourselves we wish to embody, these public identities often jar with the authentic lives we lead beyond the digital realm – muddying the sense of being attached to our true selves. Entering a new generation that actively skews towards preferring their lives online, we are forced to confront the unwanted realities that face us – raw and devoid of the glamour we might choose.

In short film Nobody, Brazilian director Marcela Jacobina explores the internal conflict of a cam-girl caught between her personal struggles and the image she presents online. As her imagined persona threatens to destabilize her truth, the film explores how relationships formed through constructed versions of self are just as inauthentic as the self-manipulated identities that facilitate them. Bringing together a female-centric crew, shooting began with the creation of an original Instagram profile for its protagonist, helping to shape the role and bring an extra layer of authenticity to the narrative.