In July 2007, the Delhi Police, under the pretext of maintaining public order, released a booklet that immediately raised eyebrows and stoked outrage. Presented as a guide to social harmony, the document singled out people from India's Northeast, advising women from the region to avoid wearing revealing dresses and offering instructions on preparing their traditional dishes in a way that...

　　Madrid is a city of deceptions. Behind the glamour and the glitz of Spain’s capital city lies a more placid lifestyle, devoid of the frills and fancies of its haute couture subculture. 　　It is a city that runs on its stomach, as can be attested by its indulgent mix of thriving tapas bars, back-alley bodegas and bustling food markets. It...

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　　In the world of restaurants, being rewarded a Michelin star is a matter of great celebration. However, the history and origin of the Michelin star ratings don't coincide with food or restaurants. It's all about travel, automobiles, and tyres! 　　Over the years the process of rewarding these stars has become a secret project where an anonymous Michelin inspector is out...

　　Tamil Nadu's GI-tagged treasures are part of the state's rich cultural fabric. As you must have read about some of the products of the state in part 1, this feature is a continuation where we explore more of these treasures, ranging from food to handicrafts. From the delicious Madurai Srivilliputtur Palkova to the intricate craftsmanship of the Thanjavur paintings, these...

　　The culturally blessed state of Tamil Nadu is home to many treasures in the realm of art, craft and culinary tradition. It boasts a wide variety of Geographical Indication (GI) tagged products that represent the cultural fabric of its people. A GI tag is a type of intellectual property protection granted to products specific to a particular geographic region which...

　　The captivating city of Kolkata is known for its rich cultural heritage. On your next visit, explore its trail of historic Islamic architecture in its mosques, each with unique architectural elements that distinguish them. 　　Here is a guide to some of the most interesting mosques in the City of Joy—from the grandeur of the Nakhoda Masjid to the simplicity of...

　　Holi is a festival of vibrant colours, laughter, and endless celebrations. But amidst all the fun, it’s easy to forget about balanced meals. A heavy feast can slow you down, while skipping meals altogether isn’t ideal. That’s where a well-curated high tea comes in, offering light yet flavourful bites that keep you energised without weighing you down. With a mix...

　　Punjab—the land of five rivers, is a place where life and food are celebrated with equal zest. To say that Punjabis live life king-size isn't an exaggeration; it's a way of life. If you've ever had the privilege of knowing a Punjabi or being one, you know what I mean. Warmth, laughter, and hospitality aren't just traits but traditions. 　　If...

　　Andhra Pradesh is a treasure trove of traditional craftsmanship, and its rich cultural heritage is reflected in the diverse Geographical Indication (GI) products the state proudly offers. Each GI-tagged product embodies centuries of artistry, deeply intertwined with the region's history, natural resources, and skilled artisans. From intricate textiles and exquisite handicrafts to time-honoured musical instruments, these products are a testament...