Global Indianstory‘Bean’ there, done that: David Belo, the chocolatier putting Mysuru on the world map

‘Bean’ there, done that: David Belo, the chocolatier putting Mysuru on the world map

Written by: Bindu Gopal Rao

(August 6, 2023) Home grown, made in India chocolate brand Naviluna in Mysore is the brainchild of its South African Founder, MD and Creative Director, David Belo. Located in a restored heritage home in Mysuru, the Naviluna cafe is the first bean-to-bar chocolate house in India and the first in the world to exclusively use Indian-origin cacao. Global Indian speaks to Belo about the bean-to-bar journey of the Naviluna brand.

Belo was born in South Africa at a time when most of Southern Africa was going through major geopolitical shifts. Cape Town was filled with symbols of the disruption of the times but also with hope in good measure. “Coming from a Portuguese family the world inside and outside the home was multicultural and multilingual, reflecting the long and complex history of the Cape of Good Hope nestled between the Atlantic and the Indian ocean,” David tells Global Indian. “The relationship between South Africa’s early beginnings, my own community, trade, food, and drink is as rich as it is deep.” He grew up exposed to the spices of Cape Malay kitchens, Cape Dutch BBQs, 300-year-old French Hugeonut Wine Estates, traditional Xhosa outdoor cooking and Filipino fishing communities. It was a rich and versatile cultural heritage that had a profound influence on Belo’s own 20-year journey in food and drink, spanning Africa, Europe and Asia.

David Belo, founder of Naviluna in Mysore.

He spent the latter half of his education in South London and started mixing cocktails in the West End whilst studying business at university. “I was playing in bands at the time, squatting in disused buildings and skateboarding whenever I found the time. It was living for the moment, but the moment had a trajectory and I knew living that fast wasn’t sustainable,” David recalls. “Long story short I found meditation, travelled, retrained as a sourdough bread baker in the English countryside and ended up in Mysore just looking for a place that reminded me of Cape Town but was still new and inspiring. I am still here 12 years later.”

Business Sense

For someone who has always admired designers like Paul Smith and Yves Saint Laurent, his cocktail background drew him closer to old-world, craft-based FMCG like H. Upman cigars in Havana or the old sherry makers of Jerez. “I felt the chocolate space was lacking both a solid brand image as well as the craftsmanhip seen in so many other food and drink traditions. Being Portuguese, we have had a relationship with cacao that spans both centuries and the globe, so perhaps it was in my blood.” However, his initial days in the business were very tough and he admits that it was only in the last year that things have started to settle down and fall into place. “Manufacturing is hard you know, things are always breaking down, logistics can be temperamental, Indian bureaucracy works hard at maintaining its reputation and people can be unreliable. The fact that we were bootstrapped from the beginning made it even tougher. In hindsight those conditions gave rise to a company culture that was honest, to the point, efficient and totally product focused. We spent nine years perfecting our craft, establishing our brand values and are now ready to start building and scaling the company.”

Global Indian | David Belo

Choco Cues

Naviluna is the first bean-to-bar chocolate house in India and the first in the world to use Indian origin cacao exclusively. Their approach to the craft of chocolate making is very much terroir-centric to showcase the wealth and diversity of the subcontinent and this is seen in their chocolates as well. Their café in Mysore opened late last year sits on top of the factory in a 150-year-old heritage bungalow that his team and he have spent the past six years restoring. “For the past nine months we have focused on our coffee program at the cafe serving up a selection of classic 1950’s Italian style coffee and chocolate drinks using arabica A grade coffee sourced and roasted by Beanrove who have their own estates in Chikmagalur. You won’t find more contemporary trends like pour-overs or an AeroPress. Like everything else at Naviluna it is about finding modernity through tradition whilst the thesis behind the menu at the cafe reflects our chocolate to showcase the best of what grows locally but with a unique and global perspective.” David also hosts gatherings at the Naviluna café, combining craft chocolate, gourmet dishes, homemade brews and spritzers along with house music, collaborating with music producers from all over India.

Global Indian | David Belo

Future Perfect

Naturally, he has learnt many lessons and says that to anyone looking at the space or small business in general is to focus on compounding work. “It is really important to build a body of work as opposed to doing jobs. The former will not only lay the foundation for a long and fruitful career but will offer guidance for the next steps ahead.” Currently he is working towards opening their first space in Bangalore which will be followed by Mumbai. “We are very clear that we are not selling a commodity but offering an experience and that chocolate is just our medium. Our stores will be designed and optimised for customer experience that communicates Naviluna’s lifestyle values as well as the nuances embodied by the craft of chocolate making at this level. I am really excited about these next steps. Three years from now we are looking at London and Lisbon as we start to establish this proudly made in Mysore brand in front of a global audience,” he signs off.

Global Indian | David Belo

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Published on 06, Aug 2023

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Deepika Arwind: A contemporary artiste exploring theatre through the gender lens

(October 3, 2021) It's eerily dark and quiet. The strums of the guitar break the silence as they swiftly fill the space with heightened drama. Following in the footsteps of the intense music, the spotlight finds itself warming up the center of the stage that has a woman sitting on her haunches. She enacts pulling down her pyjamas to pee only to find her young niece sitting across her seeing pubic hair for the first time. The lights dim out, and the next chapter unfolds. A strong Sikh man prepares for his routine circus feat of pulling a truck with his long plait in front of a thrilled audience. He exaggerates each step with loud gestures but ultimately fails to pull it off. It's the exploration of sexuality through hair that makes Bengaluru-based theatre director Deepika Arwind's play A Brief History of Your Hair a thought-provoking watch. The 35-year-old is among the few voices in the sphere of Indian feminist theatre who is experimenting with narratives to tell stories that highlight gender issues. "For the longest time, theatre has been performing dated work that's borrowed from colonial Europe. It's time that the world hears the voice of contemporary Indian women,"

It's time that the world hears the voice of contemporary Indian women," she tells Global Indian in an exclusive interview.

[caption id="attachment_12015" align="aligncenter" width="771"] A Brief History of Your Hair (Photo courtesy: Virginia Rodrigues)[/caption]

It was in the 70s that feminist theatre narratives first emerged in the country as a response to male-centric discourses. A perfect amalgamation of art and activism, Indian feminist theatre not just highlighted women's issues but encouraged more women to enter the world of drama as writers and artistes. While the genre has found a strong footing in the last few decades with an authentic portrayal of women and their sexuality on stage, the lack of representation is still bothersome.

"There is a lack of representation in theatre - not just in terms of voice and stories. Even not many women playwrights are seen in India especially in the English language. As a woman living in South Asia, I have had my share of experiences and I put them on stage. I am not an activist on stage but it's the craft and form that's involved in my work," adds Arwind.

For someone who began her journey more than a decade ago, Arwind has become a known face in contemporary theatre.

[caption id="attachment_12025" align="aligncenter" width="700"] A still from the play I Am Not Here. (Photo Courtesy: Aparna Nori)[/caption]

Vivid imagination led to a creative dream

Born and raised in a Sikh family in Bengaluru to a doctor mother and a civil engineer father, Deepika Arwind was very much of a performer as a kid. "I had a very vivid imagination and I loved being in the spotlight," Arwind reveals. While Arwind loved performing for her family and friends, her tryst with theatre began when one of Bengaluru's well-known theatre personalities Ratan Thakore Grant visited her drama class in National Public School when she was seven. This was enough of a kick-starter for a young Arwind but it wasn't until her college days that Arwind immersed herself in the performing arts.

The mandate of producing a theatre production for her Mass Communication course in Christ College led her to a path that was set to become her destiny. Her very first production Dreaming About Me in collaboration with Thespo, a youth theatre movement cast a spell on the audience. Such was the reception that it soon made its way to a full house in Bengaluru's Ranga Shankara and later at the National Centre for Performing Arts in Mumbai.

"My years at Christ College were full of theatre. After wrapping up my classes at 4 in the evening, I would rush to do theatre. I really enjoyed the process and I would act in many productions at that time," she adds.

[caption id="attachment_12060" align="aligncenter" width="759"] Deepika Arwind Unlisted by Liz-Ann D'Souza[/caption]

Her time at Christ College helped Arwind hone her skills in performing arts. After graduation, Deepika Arwind moved to Chennai to pursue her Master's in Print Journalism from the Asian College of Journalism but her love for theatre kept her afloat. "Since college was hectic, I couldn't perform during that one year but I did write a lot about plays that were happening in Chennai at that time."

Dreams culminate into a beautiful reality

The next two years were spent working with The Hindu covering art and culture. But this time in the newspaper made Arwind realize how much she missed theatre, especially after she won the Toto Award for Writing (poetry and fiction) in 2011. So she quit her job to pursue her passion. In 2013, she formed a theatre collective The Lost Post Initiative to collaborate with varied artistes for her productions. Her directorial debut Nobody Sleeps Alone lit up Jagriti Theatre in Bengaluru as it was a perfect homage to Bollywood's gangster movies of the 70s and 80s. The play was performed far and wide in the country and turned out to be the perfect flight for this fledgling theatre collective. Such was the impact of the play that it was soon shortlisted for The Hindu Playwright Award 2013.

Gender bender

2015 saw another production A Brief History of Your Hair from the artiste. What began as a 15-minute piece at Gender Bender with the help of a trigger grant from the India Foundation for the Arts and the New Voices Arts Project soon translated into a beautiful storybook with six chapters that uses music, dance, theatre, and projected poetry to explore hair that's a marker of social and cultural anxieties surrounding gender, sexuality, caste, and religion.

[caption id="attachment_12062" align="aligncenter" width="764"] Deepika Arwind in White Rabbit Red Rabbit[/caption]

Being someone who doesn't feel bound by geography, Arwind's plays soon found themselves on international platforms. Her children's play One Dream Too Many was invited to the International Playwright's Intensive at The Kennedy Centre, Washington DC, and the University of Maryland.

Her next production, No Rest In The Kingdom, a solo piece that has Arwind playing four characters is a dark comedy about how women deal with misogyny and patriarchy. A play that came into existence out of the need to have a conversation about daily misogynies, No Rest in Kingdom confronts inherent prejudices. Packed with humor and vignettes of sexism, the play takes it to form as a collection of shared and personal experiences. "It's a feminist voice coming into its mean. I wanted to connect with the audience through humor and didn't want it to be preachy," adds the 35-year-old.

The show took her to Uganda in Africa. "It generated quite an interest among the international theatre circle and soon my work was traveling across the globe," reveals Arwind. After making the right noise in the US and Africa with her work, Deepika Arwind took off to Berlin in 2018 with her new play I am Not Here, a dark and funny production designed as an 8-step guide in how to censor women's writing. Such was the reception that it was shortlisted for the Stuckemarkt, Theatretreffen.

[caption id="attachment_12013" align="aligncenter" width="601"]
Deepika Arwind at Ballhause Naunynstrasse (an independent theatre in Berlin) for Permanente Beunruhigung (Photo courtesy: Wagner Caravalho)[/caption]

Art form awaiting its due

Things were running smoothly until the pandemic put the world on standstill, and contemporary art was majorly affected. "Contemporary art doesn't get it due. Especially the pandemic hit the artistes badly. For many, it's the only means of livelihood and with no shows, it did hit them hard. Interestingly, people turned to art, be it films or music, or online shows during the pandemic. I think it's time to give back to the artistes," she adds.

But Arwind is hopeful that things will get back on track soon as she has already started prepping up for her plays that are set to enthrall the audience in Germany, Switzerland, and the UK next year. The contemporary artiste, who calls herself a theatre-maker, loves telling stories that start a dialogue but says that she has an identity beyond the realm of theatre.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XCuYPKJVeSo

"Theatre is not who I am. I have an identity beyond theatre. I would say we are like railways tracks, always coming together and then moving away," she signs off.

Follow Deepika Arwind on Instagram and Linkedin

Reading Time: 7 min

The serial entrepreneur from Varanasi: Neena Pandey is painting her canvas with transformative strokes

(September 12, 2023) Neena Pandey’s infatuation with colours, designs, textures, and silhouettes goes back a long way. Growing up in the enchanting city of Varanasi, she experienced firsthand, how skilled weavers and artisans weaved magic on silks with their age-old techniques. She aspired to become an entrepreneur but her highly successful stints in the Silicon Valley wouldn’t let her go. Until one day, when she changed the trajectory of her life and gave up the corporate world to launch her own fashion brand. “My creations are a tribute to the intricate artistry that defines Indian fashion, combined with the contemporary sensibilities I have embraced abroad,” smiles serial entrepreneur Neena Pandey, speaking to Global Indian. A member of the Forbes Business Council, the US-based Neena Pandey is the founder and CEO of The String Code, a luxury fashion brand. She also founded IndieRoots, a lifestyle brand of products, and is the President of Club Z Tutoring, the fastest-growing franchise in the US. The list of top companies she has worked with in Silicon Valley is really long. “I am all about this cool concept called a portfolio career. It's this approach where you don't put all your eggs in one professional basket. You

l about this cool concept called a portfolio career. It's this approach where you don't put all your eggs in one professional basket. You diversify, dabble in different ventures, and keep that professional life vibrant and the entrepreneur says.

[caption id="attachment_44809" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Entrepreneur | Neena Pandey | Global Indian Entrepreneur Neena Pandey[/caption]

Clothes have this incredible ability to work wonders for women, she feels. “They can boost confidence, make a lady feel beautiful, spread genuine happiness, and help her truly appreciate herself,” points out Neena, who lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband Sachin, an engineer, and their two children, Aditya and Anya. “I have lost count of instances where I noticed that when I am dressed to impress, I walk into meetings with my head held high and crush my presentations,” says Neena. The entrepreneur describes her fashion brand as a canvas where the colors of her Indian upbringing merge with the strokes of contemporary international influences.

A Varanasi girl

Growing up in a middle-class Indian family in Varanasi, Neena and her two elder sisters were consistently reminded by their parents that being unable to support themselves was not an option. “I grew up with limited resources, and always thought that I would ultimately find myself working for someone else as an adult – a path that I did follow,” recalls Neena, who in her younger days, took on the role of the family's designer, creating clothing for everyone at home.

[caption id="attachment_44817" align="aligncenter" width="683"] Neena Pandey | Global Indian IndieRoots artisans at work[/caption]

She did her schooling at St John's School, Varanasi, and an undergraduate degree in Chemistry with Honours from the Banaras Hindu University. During her academic years, Neena aimed to become a doctor due to the limited options typically presented in Indian households at that time – either medical or engineering. “However, I couldn't clear the pre-medical test, which turned out to be a fortunate turn of events in retrospect. I swiftly redirected my focus towards something I was passionate about – fashion and apparel,” informs the entrepreneur, whose professional journey began with India’s largest retail chain, Weekender.

Moving to the Silicon Valley

Before she kicked off her brands, Neena was crushing it as a fierce and outspoken marketing executive in Silicon Valley. While doing an MBA programme with a marketing major at Santa Clara University's Leavey School of Business, she got an internship at Adobe Systems during her first summer break in 2007.

Entrepreneur | Neena Pandey

“Adobe asked me to stick around part-time while I finished my programme. I took it up,” informs Neena, who later got an offer from Sun Microsystems, a big player back then and the brain behind Java. They offered her the chance to be the first product marketing manager for Open Solaris, their open-source operating system. Neena had a blast wearing her creative marketing hat– instituting innovative GTM plans to target students and the developer community worldwide. “We ended up exceeding targets by 106%, a full year sooner than projected,” says the former corporate honcho. Later, when Oracle acquired Sun Microsystems, she moved there and worked for two years. She was the ambassador for their cohesive hardware-software messaging. “I also proposed a product idea that became a star product offering later.”

From there, Zyme Solutions came knocking and the entrepreneur was leading the marketing squad for something groundbreaking — channel data management, which was all about giving retailers the tech tools to conquer the retail scene. “We ended up launching the product internationally, making a difference in the lives of retailers, says Neena, who earlier did her Masters in Garment manufacturing technology from NIFT, Delhi.

A leader at heart

She had her fair share of victories at the Silicon Valley but deep down, she had this constant itch to venture into entrepreneurship. Eventually, Neena recognised that entrepreneurship was her calling. “I am the first person in my family to go on an entrepreneurship route. Obviously, my family members were scared when I left my promising career in corporate,” the entrepreneur says. Despite the uncertainty, she ventured into this new journey, acknowledging that success wouldn't be immediate.

[caption id="attachment_44810" align="aligncenter" width="624"] Entrepreneur | Neena Pandey Entrepreneur Neena Pandey[/caption]

With technology revolutionising fashion retail by reshaping e-commerce and marketing becoming hyper-personalised through data-driven insights and augmented reality, Neena says her tech wins combined with her deep dive into the fashion-retail world have her primed to shape a future all about connections and doing right by the planet.

Neena is also a featured author and contributor for Forbes. “Forbes values my opinion in various polls and publications. Being a part of this, I also get to tap into the vast knowledge pool of accomplished business leaders from all corners of the globe,” the entrepreneur says. As a proud member of the Council, Neena is unlocking a bunch of exclusive opportunities that are tailored to elevate her professional influence to new heights. “I'm connecting and collaborating with other esteemed local leaders in our own private space and at members-only events.”

[caption id="attachment_44821" align="aligncenter" width="601"] Entrepreneur | Neena Pandey | Global Indian Neena during the photoshoot for The String Code[/caption]

In the midst of this whirlwind, she carves out time for her own well-being. “I hit the gym at 5 in the morning or squeeze in a late-night swim at 10 p.m. Her workout routine covers a wide spectrum – from weightlifting and intense body combat sessions (a fusion of martial arts and kickboxing) to Pilates, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and swimming. “I have incorporated meditation into my daily routine.”

The String Code

The String Code is not just a brand – it's a movement rooted in women's empowerment and manifestation of inspiring ideas and concepts, says Neena. “Our designs cater to diverse sizes and silhouettes, making sure every body type feels confident and comfortable in String Code outfits,” informs the serial entrepreneur, who is the start-up mentor at The Centre for Global Enterprise, New York.

[caption id="attachment_44819" align="aligncenter" width="669"] Entrepreneur | Neena Pandey | Global Indian A collection from The String Code[/caption]

Launched in July 2021, The String Code is her way of connecting with women across the spectrum. “I have woven my enduring confidence and passion into every string, every thread, and every distinct look meticulously designed for String Code,” says the entrepreneur, whose clothing brand adheres to the United Nations development goals. “The clothing is made in small batches using natural fibers, upcycled fabric, and environmentally conscious business practices when possible.”

Each piece she designs meticulously balances traditional elegance with modern sophistication. “My fashion brand is a canvas where the colors of my Indian upbringing merge with the strokes of contemporary international influences. I offer a collection that resonates with individuals regardless of their cultural background.”

IndieRoots

Collaborating with 60 artisan collectives across India and Southeast Asia, Indieroots is a lifestyle brand offering a range of products. “Its essence lies in bridging the gap between artisans and the global community by establishing a sustainable international market for talented creators. It fosters a spirit of entrepreneurship.”

[caption id="attachment_44816" align="aligncenter" width="701"] Neena Pandey | Global Indian Neena with some of the artisans of IndieRoots[/caption]

Describing IndieRoots - which was established in 2018 - as a profound calling that resonates with her passion for handicraft and home decor, Neena says every piece that finds its way into the homes of her customers narrates a story of artisan traditions kept alive by craftsmen from various corners of the world. She partners with over 60 artisan groups across India. “We've expanded our horizons to include collaboration with other Southeast Asian countries as well,” informs the entrepreneur, who is the executive member of the International LEAP network.

A book worm

Books are Neena’s getaway. The eclectic reader dives into Historical fiction, fiction, and mystery. “Lately, though, I have been drawn to non-fiction. There's something about inspirational, self-help, and spiritual books that just resonates with me,” says the entrepreneur. When it comes to music, she says it's woven into her family's fabric. “My children are passionate singers. Karaoke evenings and backyard jam sessions are pretty much standard fare at our house.”

TV shows? “I've had those nights where I've binged-watch till the wee hours, even when there's a business meeting waiting for me in the morning!” says the entrepreneur, whose favourites span a range of genres, from gripping thrillers and suspenseful espionage tales to comedy. And, when it's time to unwind, Neena finds solace in a good glass of wine.

Follow Neena Pandey on Instagram

Reading Time: 6 mins

Arun Ashokan and Sumi: The Malayali couple who built an elementary school in Malawi

(May 15, 2024) In the heart of East Africa, 5457 km to the west of Kochi, lies the beautiful nation of Malawi. The landlocked gem, bordered by Tanzania in the North, Mozambique in the East, and Zambia in the West, is home to Kerala Block - a school in Chisasila village, 330km from Lilongwe - built by a Malayali couple, Arun Ashokan and his wife Sumi. A four-classroom concrete structure with a garden is the brainchild of Arun, whose heart was stirred by the image of village children studying under a tree. Driven by the desire to make a difference, he joined forces with the locals to build an elementary school. Eighteen months of hard work paid off as he saw the students take their first steps into the newly constructed building. "It gave me immense satisfaction. I am an Indian who is equally indebted to Malawi - a country that has given me everything. When I came here, I possessed nothing. Today, I am blessed with financial stability and a fulfilling life. I wanted to reciprocate the kindness by giving back to the country to whom I owe so much," he tells Global Indian. [caption id="attachment_51630" align="aligncenter" width="730"] Arun

opener">Global Indian.

[caption id="attachment_51630" align="aligncenter" width="730"] Arun Ashoka and Sumi | Global Indian Arun Ashoka and Sumi at Chisasila School[/caption]

A scene that triggered it all

It began one rainy February morning in 2021 when Arun, along with his driver, was en route to his worksite for dam construction in Chisasila when he encountered a bunch of rain-soaked children looking for shelter. Upon inquiring from his driver, he found out they mostly study under the tree due to inadequate infrastructure. Along the way, he caught sight of a leaking shed that served as the village's elementary school. "It broke my heart. My first thought was, 'How can I help?" says Arun, who reached out to the villagers expressing his interest in helping them build the school.

He was welcomed with open arms by the warm people of Chisasila, who were grateful for the help extended by an Indian - the very first who ever visited their village. "Growing up in Malappuram in Kerala, I witnessed the same situation, and understand their plight. We had similar schools that ran under the trees. But things have changed in the last few years due to progress and proper infrastructure. I wanted to bring the same development to Chisasila," informs Arun.

Though a proper school wasn't a part of the initial plan, seeing the kids and the hardworking people of Chisasila who made bricks on their own, he decided to construct a building. "Initially, I wanted to cover the existing shed with a sheet but later decided to add four classrooms to accommodate 144 students." Motivated to give back to the country that has bestowed prosperity on him, Arun was keen to make the plan work and dialled up his friend Ashif in UAE to share the idea, and asked him to be on standby in case he struggled to finish the project. "I told him that I might need his help financially. But he was happy to join from the go," reveals Arun, whose colleague Kenneth Francis, a civil engineer, also chipped in.

[caption id="attachment_51635" align="aligncenter" width="740"] The children of Chisasila Village[/caption]

In between, he briefly returned to Kerala for his marriage to Sumi, in whom he found a perfect partner. Along with sharing household responsibilities, Sumi was keen to work with Arun on his dream project. Also, a Malappuram native, she resonated with the cause and was eager to offer help in every way possible. While Arun and locals helped in the construction of the school, Sumi contributed by painting the school's walls, educating kids, and empowering the local women.

[caption id="attachment_51634" align="aligncenter" width="599"] Arun Ashokan and Sumi | Global Indian Arun Ashokan and Sum[/caption]

Malawi - a country that transformed his life

In 2019, Arun moved to Malawi with the help of his uncle to work at a trading company as a warehouse manager, a job he needed urgently in times of financial crisis. Two years later, he transitioned to a construction company, where he currently works as a site administration manager. The move marked a turning point in his life, bringing financial stability and a sense of belonging. "My life transformed completely. I wanted to give back by contributing a part of my salary for the development of villages in Malawi."

One step at a time

However, he soon realised it wasn't enough to make the desired impact and started a YouTube channel Malawi Diary to give a glimpse into the lives of people of Malawi. "A popular Indian YouTuber, who was travelling across Africa, met with us in Malawi when we were building the school. He was impressed by our work and even promoted our channel, asking people to subscribe to us," says Arun, whose channel now boasts of 134k subscribers. "We started making revenue and invested it in school construction." A stoic believer in social responsibility, he even refused to accept financial help from his subscribers. "It's my responsibility to give back to a country that has given me so much."

Arun Ashokan and Sumi | Global Indian

With 308 videos, Arun and Sumi continuously update their YouTube channel with fresh content, driving revenue that's often infused into the development of Chisasila village. Along with the building, the funds were used to make school furniture and provide stationery, school bags, and uniforms to the village kids. "No school in Malawi provides shoes to school kids. But we do," says a proud Arun.

Ask him about his biggest challenges in the journey, and he replies, "It was the procurement of cement as the prices kept increasing every few months due to the devaluation of the currency in Malawi. If it cost 7500 Malawi kwacha, in the next few months, the price soared to 12,500 Malawi kwacha." Additionally, the voluntary nature of the work led to frequent delays. "Only the bricklayers and carpenters received payment, while others volunteered. This led to villagers' absence on most days, with even some refusing to help stating their kids no longer attend elementary school. But we had to convince them about the larger cause, and not just personal gain."

Kerala Block stands tall

The fruits of their labour were evident as the villagers stood in awe looking at the newly constructed building. "Since most of the construction was completed before the Christmas break, villagers left for holidays. Only Sumi and I were left behind, and for 15 days, we plastered the walls, painted, and even worked on making a small garden in the compound. Upon the villagers' return, their excitement was palpable. They called it a complete makeover," laughs Arun.

[caption id="attachment_51632" align="aligncenter" width="689"] Chisasila School | Global Indian The inauguration of Chisasila School in Malawi[/caption]

In 2022, Kerala Block saw the light of day when village kids found themselves accessing a proper school. "It was an overwhelming moment," says Arun, who is currently stationed in Mponela, which is 250 km from Chisasila. "I am here for a new dam construction project. We are now starting to build a secondary school in MPonela." However, he is still actively involved in the ongoing progress of Chisasila School. Moreover, his dedication to the village transcends academics as he also imparts farming skills to the villagers during the dry season. "We came up with a plan to build a local dam at a river that can hold the water, which can be later used for irrigation."

Meanwhile, Sumi has been actively engaged in educating schoolchildren and empowering local women in Chisasila by teaching them how to prepare South Indian cuisine using native ingredients like banana, maize, and rice when are available in plenty. "Locals don't know how to use most ingredients available to them. We have taught them to make banana chips, and even a few women now sell chips, thus generating employment," beams Arun, who shares a strong bond with the people who Chisasila.

The warm people of Chisasila

Fondly referred to as the "Warm Heart of Africa," Malawi is renowned for the kindness of its people. "They are lovely, warm and peaceful. Unlike the other countries in Africa which have civil or political unrest, Malawi is a peaceful place, and in fact, has a landscape similar to India." In the last five years, Arun has admired "a strong sense of belonging and community" in the people of Malawi.

[caption id="attachment_51633" align="aligncenter" width="734"] Chisasila Village in Malawi[/caption]

When Arun arrived in Malawi in 2019, he was surprised to find a thriving Indian community in Malawi. "While Gujaratis mostly run businesses in Malawi, many Malayalis work for companies. Each year many Indians arrive in Malawi for work as many Indian companies have their offices in Malawi," informs Arun. Revealing the reason behind the influx of Indians in Malawi, Arun points out the benefits provided by the companies. "They take good care of their employees, and provide them a house, cook, guard, a car and a driver and even pay rent. Indians live a peaceful life in Malawi, and mingle together at parties, association events, temples, and at festivals."

Love for Hindi cinema

Africa's love for Hindi cinema and music is an open secret, and Arun confirms its popularity extends even to Malawi. "I recently spotted this girl in Mponela singing a Hindi film song, who came running to me inquiring about the film," he smiles, adding, "They love Bollywood films, and music and even watch Hindi serials. They have small theatres in villages where they play these movies and serials," informs Arun, who is looking forward to visiting India this year. "We only miss family, festivals, and Malayalam films in Malawi, otherwise everything is great here," he smiles.

Malawi has been a transformative force in Arun's life. "My thinking has changed. I was living in lack when I first came here and now, I only see abundance. I have found a purpose in Malawi," he says. Contemplating the legacy he will leave behind, he says, "When I die, I am not going to take money with me, but the memories that I am making here."

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Bijoy Jain: The architect breathes new life into sustainable design

(May 6, 2024) A few weeks ago, the curtains on Bijoy Jain's latest exhibition - Breath of an Architect - were drawn at Paris's prestigious contemporary art museum, Fondation Cartier, after being on display for over four months. The installation which investigates the connections between art, architecture, and material, once again brought to the forefront the work of one of India's most renowned architects, who often refers to himself as an artist - Bijoy Jain. "I don’t believe in the conventional separation of architects and artisans," said Bijoy, whose work has been displayed at the architecture biennial in Venice and Sharjah. But mostly has left people in awe at places like Japan, France, and the foothills of the Himalayas as his craft reflects a deep concern for the relationship between man and nature, and serves as a source of inspiration, contemplation, and quietude for everyone. [caption id="attachment_51303" align="aligncenter" width="688"] Bijoy Jain[/caption] A trip that changed it all Growing up in Bombay in the 60s and 70s, he was surrounded by classical Hindustani music which was practiced by his mother, and books that belonged to his father. But it was travel that shaped his worldview at a young age. Bijoy explored

Bombay in the 60s and 70s, he was surrounded by classical Hindustani music which was practiced by his mother, and books that belonged to his father. But it was travel that shaped his worldview at a young age. Bijoy explored the length and breadth of the country, courtesy of his parents who took trips across India when he was young. One such trip landed him at Ajanta and Ellora Caves, an experience that left an everlasting impression on the mind of a then-five-year-old. "The Ellora Caves are a living space. They transcend time. You may have an immediate (response) or it may take a length of time.. but eventually, you are not the same person as when you entered the space," said the architect.

India to the US - A journey

A professional swimmer, he swam across the English Channel as a teenager but things took a turn for the worse when in 1983, his brother killed himself, and shortly after, his father died of a heart attack followed by his mother. "All this happened in two and a half years. I had started architecture school in Mumbai, and I loved it. But after their deaths, everything was completely different. The window I was looking through had changed," he revealed, adding that he moved to the US to escape reality and enrolled in Washington University in St Louis. It was a stroll to the Laumeier Sculpture Park on his second day that changed it all for him when he discovered Michael Heizer, Donald Judd, and Richard Serra. "For me, Michael Heizer’s Double Negative (a 1969 Land Art intervention near Overton, Nevada) is a fabulous work. Discovering it opened something for me," he added.

Bijoy Jain | Global Indian

After completing his studies, he moved to California to work at Richard Meier's model shop, and after gaining experience in the US and UK, he returned to India to start his studio in Alibag. It was yoga that brought him back to India as he wanted to practice yoga at the place of its origin. "Coming back after a long period away, I was making peace with home again." Returning to India was a sort of rediscovery for Bijoy as landscapes had Indian sensibility and had nothing to do with modern architecture. Constructing his first home in Alibag after graduation, he ended up tossing away his hard work of six months as he found the local builders' techniques incredible. "For me, it was a big learning curve to become familiar with another way of building," the Global Indian said.

Finding his niche

In 1995, he founded Studio Mumbai which is at the intersection of tradition and modernity, and in the last two decades as an architect, he has earned accolades and love across the globe for his work. From designing a textile studio in the foothills of the Himalayas for Japanese textile weaver Chiaki Maki to envisioning Lantern Onomichi, a boutique hotel on the slopes of Mount Senkoji in Hiroshima, Bijoy's work stands as a testimony to his determination and expertise.

Bijoy Jain | Global Indian

He works mostly with wood, basalt, bamboo, concrete, and earth but he calls air, water, and light as his preferred material of choice as he seeks to forge connections between indoor spaces and the great outdoors. Known to design and build in a restricted environment without much manipulation, he loves "finding a gap or an in-between space in a restricted environment." "Whatever the medium is, the objective is to influence the trajectory of light in a space. Any constricted space can be made open in its experience and perception. That is the potential that architecture holds," says Bijoy, whose studio won the Global Award for Sustainable Architecture from L'Institut Francais D'Architecture in 2009. Importantly, his creations reflect a profound attachment to a distinct sense of place and landscape, acknowledging the geographical, climatic, and social nuances of the environment surrounding the architecture. His work which stretches from private homes across India to hotel restorations in Japan and a winery in France, has won many awards and has even been displayed at architecture biennials in Sharjah (2013), Venice (2010, 2016), and Chicago (2017).

Apart from structures, he has also designed furniture, a paper-mâché armchair, and a stone table for Hermes, a French fashion house. And has his work acquired by the Canadian Centre for Architecture, and Centre Pompidou in Paris. Presently, Bijoy is engaged in crafting a townhouse in Brooklyn, revitalizing a community on a secluded Greek island, and designing a winery in France. It's working on a winery that holds a special place as it "holds the possibility of influencing the way the taste of the wine evolves." From harnessing natural light to strategizing the placement of barrels and bottles, and orchestrating the flow of air around them, every decision is a part of the journey of discovery and learning.

[caption id="attachment_51304" align="aligncenter" width="629"] Bijoy Jain | Global Indian Bijoy Jain[/caption]

Having worked for three decades now, Bijoy is keen to open a small bronze foundry. "I don't know why, but I feel motivated to explore fire as a material," he revealed. Bijoy is an architect known worldwide for his buildings and designs, and people everywhere admire how he mixes nature and human creativity in his work. From the interplay of light and space to the seamless integration of natural elements into his designs, his work transcends mere structures, creating immersive experiences that resonate deeply with all who encounter them. His unwavering commitment to forging connections between the built environment and the natural world serves as an inspiration for architects and admirers alike, leaving a mark on the architectural landscape of our time.

Queen Elizabeth II: The 50-year connection with India

(September 10, 2022) Queen Elizabeth II is the world's most iconic monarch and with her passing on September 8, 2022, she will always be remembered for being the picture of grace, dignity and poise in good times and bad, through gain and loss alike. In 1947, when she married her longtime love, she received two gifts. One, was the now famous Cartier tiara and a diamond necklace of her choice. The other, a handwoven handkerchief from Mahatma Gandhi, which she always cherished, even showing them to Prime Minister Narendra Modi when they met. Prime Minister Modi recalled this gift in his condolence tweet, mentioning his meetings with the Queen during his UK visits in 2015 and 2018, saying, he will "never forget her warmth and kindness." Global Indian takes a look at her three state visits to India, in 1961, 1983 and 1997. Each time, she was moved by the "warmth and hospitality" she received every time. In one of her addresses, she said, "The warmth and hospitality of the Indian people, and the richness and diversity of India itself have been an inspiration to all of us." [caption id="attachment_29198" align="aligncenter" width="672"] Queen Elizabeth II with PM Narendra Modi.

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[caption id="attachment_29198" align="aligncenter" width="672"] Queen Elizabeth II with PM Narendra Modi. Photo: Twitter[/caption]

1961: Tiger hunts, elephant rides and Republic Day at Rajpath

The royal couple's first visit to India was in 1961, on the invitation of then President of India, Dr Rajendra Prasad. People lined the streets, climbed to rooftops and sat in balconies, hoping for a glimpse of Her Majesty. Fifty years had passed since the last British royal visit - her grandfather, King George V, who came to India in 1911, had been the last monarch to do so.

Queen Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh were the guests of honour at the Republic Day celebrations at Rajpath, in Delhi. Thousands gathered at Ramlila Grounds as the Queen, dressed in a fur coat and hat, made her address. In that Delhi leg of the tour, she visited Mahatma Gandhi's memorial at Rajghat, offering a ceremonial wreath and even leaving a note in the visitor's book, a rare gesture for the Monarch, who is accustomed to simply signing her name. She also inaugurated the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences building, along with then president Dr Rajendra Prasad.

[caption id="attachment_29204" align="aligncenter" width="363"] The Queen with former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru at the Republic Day Parade, 1963[/caption]

The royal couple toured India's historical sites, coming to Agra, where they saw the Taj Mahal and travelling to also came to Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai and Kolkata. The erstwhile Maharaja of Benares extended his hospitality to the royal couple, who rode through the streets atop a bejewelled elephant. In Udaipur, they were greeted by Maharajana Bhagwat Singh, who arrived to meet his guests with a grand entourage of over 50 noblemen. The Prince of Jaipur organised a tiger hunt. The souvenirs from the trip included an artistic model of Qutub Minar for Her Majesty and a silver candelabra for the Duke of Edinburgh.

[caption id="attachment_29200" align="aligncenter" width="379"] Atop an elephant in Benares[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_29201" align="aligncenter" width="582"] After the controversial tiger hunt in Jaipur[/caption]

1983: Meeting with Mother Teresa

That year, the Queen's visit was in time for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, at the invitation of President Giani Zail Singh. The couple stayed at the refurbished wing of the Rashtrapati Bhavan. It also marked her now famous meeting with Mother Teresa, whom she presented with an honorary Order of the Merit.

1997: The controversy in Amritsar, MGR City, Kamal Haasan and MGR Film City

The Queen's final state visit to India was one of controversy. In a rare departure from her trademark diplomacy, Queen Elizabeth II, in her banquet address, made a reference to one of the "difficult episodes of colonial history:" the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. She and her husband even visited the site in Amritsar to place a wreath, a bold move, as protests had erupted across the country and there were widespread demands for an apology.

It wasn't all about macabre memories, though. In October 1997, Tamil actor Kamal Hassan was in the midst of one of his most ambitious projects, Marudhanayagam. The Queen, who was in the country then, attended the launch of the film as the chief guest. The event took place in Chennai, at MGR Film City. She also visited the sets and watched a short battle scene, which had alone cost ₹1.5 crore. The Queen spent time with Kamal Haasan and his now ex-wife Saarika, as well as with long-time Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi. Incidentally, the film was shelved when a major funder backed out.

[caption id="attachment_29203" align="aligncenter" width="369"] Her Majesty with Kamal Haasan during the shooting of Marudhanayagam[/caption]

The Queen has hosted three Indian Presidents - Dr Radhakrishnan in 1963, N Venkataraman in 1990 and Pratibha Patil in 2009.

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