Your Platform Magazine – January 2024 Edition

Cradle of Subterranean Splendor – Revealing the Royalty of ‘Rani Ki Vav’

The ancient Indian buildings are so magnificent. Have you ever stopped to admire them? Countless locations in India captivate visitors with their breathtaking architecture. ‘Rani Ki Vav’, a.k.a. the ‘Queen’s Step Well’, is such a fantastic treat for everyone’s eyes. It is located in the Patan district of Gujarat. Imagine that you are descending deeper and deeper into history, where each step reveals a different tale carved in stone. Stunning sculptures and elaborate carvings surround Rani Ki Vav, transforming it from a mere stepwell into an underground masterpiece. The Splendid Architecture Queen Udayamati constructed this stepwell on the banks of the River Saraswati as a memorial to her beloved husband, Bhima I. He was a king of the Chalukya dynasty in the 11th century. Those who got an opportunity to witness this unique architecture might be astounded by the peculiar upside-down structure, which serves as a temple that highlights the holiness of water. The well is designed into seven separate layers of stairs with carved panels containing almost 1500 sculptures representing religious, social, and spiritual imagery. Image Source:Wikipedia The walls are adorned with many female deities and sculptures. Mythical figures such as nagakanyakas, yoginis, celestial women, and others are displayed in the form of sculptures. The stories from Ramayana and Mahabharata are depicted on the walls. In Admiration Of The Realm Of Nature This architectural masterpiece is the best example of the storage-well system followed in the Indian subcontinent. This stepwell offers substantial evidence of the ancients’ veneration and preservation of natural materials since groundwater was the primary source during that period. Unique Style And Structure Rani Ki Vav stands tall and proud among the perfect and most immaculate stepwells in the world. This stepwell is built in Mar Gulijara architectural style, which beautifully exemplifies the most intricate and detailed way of sculpting. The seven levels of the stairs in this structure lead to a deep, circular well. Designations Rani Ki Vav is designated as a national monument, and the Archeological Survey of India has protected it. Rani ki Vav was honoured as the “Most Cleanest and Iconic Place” at the 2016 Indian Hygiene Conference following its addition to the UNESCO World Heritage Site List on June 22, 2014. The pillared pavilions and the ornate panels of these majestic steps evoke admiration for the sculptures and visionaries who toiled tirelessly to finish this work of art. As we return from the site, each visitor becomes part of our country’s spiritual voyage and cultural legacy.

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Food

What is ‘One Pot, One Shot’ Cooking Method? – Yummy & Healthy Magic Revealed

The ‘One Pot, One Shot’ (OPOS) cooking method was created by B. Ramakrishnan, a culinary enthusiast from Chennai. This cooking style helps you save a lot of time without compromising the dish’s flavour and quality. According to Ramki (that is what everyone calls him fondly), “Learning to make tasty food with quick recipes and minimum effort is an essential skill.” However, he promises to teach everyone the magic of simple cooking methods through his OPOS cookbook. Working moms and youngsters who are interested in trying new dishes but not yet feeling comfortable with the intricacies of traditional cooking procedures will find this method incredibly useful. Ramki started to experiment with different recipes when he was working in Bahrain. He was missing his favourite Indian food items and wanted to try them without any hassle. After much trial and error, the ‘OPOS’ method was born; needless to say, it was a big success. In Ramki’s view, if you prepare a dish using OPOS techniques, you are not compromising its nutritional levels. In addition to this, all the cooked vegetables preserve their colour and crunchiness. That is why OPOS cuisine can entice even the most picky eater. Using the OPOS cooking method, you can cook butter chicken in 6 minutes ‘aviyal’ (a south Indian vegetarian dish) in just 5 minutes, including the chopping time of the ingredients. Amazing, isn’t it? To start, you need a 2L pressure cooker, measuring spoon, cups, weighing scale, timer and a stove. In the pressure cooker, the ingredients are diced and layered one by one with a minimum quantity of water. And, you need to cook on high heat for very little time. For every recipe, there are particular procedures to adhere to. Cookbooks with a wide variety of delicious OPOS recipes are available on top-rated online shopping sites, and many of them boast the ‘best seller’ status. Let us try one of the recipes. OPOS No Water Mushroom Biriyani Ingredients needed 1. 400 grams of mushrooms chopped into 4 cups 2. 1 cup Basmati rice 3. 2 tablespoons of ghee 4. 1 cup of chopped tomatoes. Method of preparation Mix the chopped mushroom with the ingredients below and keep it aside. 5. ½ cup of caramelised onion 6. ¼ cup yogurt 7. 2 green chillies slitted 8. 1 tablespoon mint leaves 9. 1 tablespoon of garam masala 10. Salt Soak the rice for 30 minutes and drain it. Now layer the ingredients in a 2L pressure cooker as below. Layer 1: 2 tbsp ghee Layer 2: 1 cup of chopped tomatoes Layer 3: 2 cups of mushroom Layer 4: soaked rice Layer 5: 2 cups of mushroom Fix the weight and cook on high for four whistles or 10 minutes. Switch off and keep it aside to settle the pressure. After some time, open the lid and mix well. The hot and spicy OPOS mushroom biriyani is ready to serve. Reference for the article: OPOS Cookbook – 5 min Magic by Ramakrishnan and UBF, OPOS school students.

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Leisure Literature

4 Self-Help Books that You should not Miss! (to make your way to success)

The ability to read is a blessing since it allows one to learn something new every day. Beyond mere letters printed on sheets, each word imprinted on your mind shapes your thoughts and perspectives, illuminates the path of new experiences, and elevates your consciousness. Through the marvellous realm of words, we soar and kindle our imagination. It would be wonderful to kickstart our year with some fantastic books. Let us make reading a priority this new year. Let us choose some books that help you succeed in your life and enhance your efficiency and effectiveness at work. We suggest a few good books from the list that you should not miss reading this year. Eat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways To Stop Procrastinating And Get More Done In Less Time By Brian Tracy Brian Tracy’s ‘Eat That Frog’ provides 21 easy and practical ideas for everyone to be more productive and stress-free. Here, the term ‘frog’ refers to an important task that is likely to procrastinate. The author adds, ‘If you have to eat two frogs, first eat the ugliest one!’. Yes, the most significant rule for improving your performance level is to tackle the most challenging and crucial task first thing every day. Like this, 21 life-changing rules are explained in this book. This book is an ideal addition to your 2024 reading list. Grit: The Power Of Passion And Perseverance, By Prof. Angela Duckworth It is easy to be inspired, but the tricky part is consistency in our actions. If you want to be successful, you need to be consistent. However, there are a lot of reasons why many people find it hard to be consistent with their jobs and routines. As a professor of psychology, Mrs. Angela analyses many real-life examples in this book. She provides us with some valuable life lessons in her book, ‘Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance’. Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear James Clear’s Atomic Habits garnered the greatest attention and praise after its’ release. An atom is a very tiny unit of mass. This book mainly focuses on creating little routines to enhance our lives. In this book, Clear gives you the easiest techniques to distill complex things into the simplest habits, and he guides us on applying these habits in our daily lives. The book redefines your thoughts about success and leads you to apply more efficient techniques. Anatomy Of A Breakthrough, By Adam Alter Have you ever found yourself stuck between tasks? Many reasons, including your thoughts, emotional barriers, stress, and overloaded work will contribute to this. Due to these reasons, improving our efficiency and reaching our maximum potential will be challenging. Adam Alter has spent over twenty years researching this topic with many people. He studied how they all became stuck at some point in their lives and how they emerged from such a situation. ‘Anatomy of a Breakthrough’ is a detailed exploration guide to overcome our inertia and find success in our challenges.

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Automobile

Celebrating 30 Years of Mercedes-Benz in India: A Journey of Luxury and Innovation

Mercedes-Benz, the epitome of luxury in the automotive world, proudly marks its 30th anniversary of operations in India. Beyond the glitz and glamour of the iconic three-pointed star logo lies a rich history intertwined with India’s economic transformation. The story begins with the winds of change blowing in 1991 when Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao and Finance Minister Manmohan Singh spearheaded the Economic Liberalisation, a landmark reform that dismantled the restrictive License Raj in India. This pivotal moment opened the doors for foreign companies to enter the Indian market, and brands like Suzuki, Hyundai, and Honda seized the opportunity, eager to establish themselves in the land of opportunities which is India. Mercedes-Benz had already left its mark on Indian soil since 1957, albeit in the realm of trucks and buses through a joint venture with Tata known as Tata-Benz. However, it wasn’t until the sweeping economic reforms that the luxury automaker turned its gaze towards the passenger vehicle segment. In 1994, just a couple of years after the reforms, Mercedes-Benz made a grand entrance into the luxury passenger vehicle market with the introduction of the Mercedes-Benz E220 (W-124 E-Class) in 1995. Priced at Rs 19 lakh and assembled at the Telco plant near Pune as a Completely Knocked Down (CKD) unit, this marked the inception of the brand’s journey towards becoming the preeminent luxury automobile manufacturer in India. A significant turning point came in 2000 when Mercedes-Benz repurchased its shares from Tata, paving the way for the establishment of its fully-owned subsidiary, Mercedes-Benz India. The creation of a manufacturing plant in Chakan underscored the brand’s commitment to localized production and to reduce import duties. Fast forward to the present – after three decades of operations, Mercedes-Benz India contributes approximately 17 thousand units annually, further solidifying its position as a prominent player in the luxury automobile sector. This milestone not only reflects the brand’s unwavering commitment to excellence but also its ability to adapt and thrive in the dynamic Indian market.

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Automobile

Iconic Cars We Will Miss In 2024!

2023 saw the most drastic change in climatic conditions across the globe. One of the main reasons behind this global catastrophe is the tailpipe emissions. To reduce carbon emissions, automobile companies have now started to end the production of their fuel guzzlers and replace them with low-emission vehicles like hybrids and EVs. In contrast, some cars stop their production because of being a limited production vehicle. Here are some of the which we would miss in 2024 due to emission norms or limited production run. 1. Lamborghini Aventador Every 90’s kid’s dream was to own a Lamborghini Aventador. When launched in 2013, it was a replacement for Murcielago. With its 6.5-litre V12 engine, it can only be described as a beast. Be it Asphalt 8 mobile game or Punjabi rap songs, Aventador was a cultural icon for the youth. Sadly because of the emission norms, thanks to its V12 engine the sales of the Aventador ended in 2022 and the last produced car was on sale in early 2023. 2. Audi R8 Remember when Tony Stark drove the Audi R8 in Iron Man? Well, 2023 saw the last of them on sale. The R8 had a 4.2-litre V8 and a 5.2-litre V10 engine and was available in RWD, Quattro and GT variants. Audi confirmed to stop the production of the Audi R8 in 2022 with 2023 being the last model year for R8 supercars. 3. Honda Acura NSX In November 2022, Honda declared to stop production of its premium supercar Acura NSX. The Acura team gathered to bid farewell to its famous supercar, with NSX Type S being the last produced car. A car which even Ayrton Senna loved to drive. The twin-turbo V6 engine in tandem with three electric motors delivered more than 600 PS power. But this mill was a fuel guzzler and NSX was a limited production vehicle. Honda decided to end its production by late 2022. The last Acura NSX was on sale in early 2023. 4. Ford GT Yes! This is the same Ford GT which had a lineage of winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1966. Sadly we bid adieu to the Ford GT in 2023 after a stint of 60-plus years. The last produced vehicle, the Ford GT Mk IV was a track-specific car and was not legal to drive on roads. The car was discontinued due to the limited production run of just 67 cars. This makes this supercar a rare collectable estimated to cost millions of dollars.

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Fashion

Fabulous Five Winter Fashion Ideas for Plus-size Queens

In the winter gloom, picture a woman transforming the dull vibe with a chic monochromatic dress—a fusion of style and unwavering confidence. Amidst dark overcoats and somber necklines, plus-size winter outfits emerge as a game changer, infusing bold style and spirit into the season’s fashion landscape. This time, elevate your winter wardrobe with more than just style – embrace the empowering allure of plus-size winter fashion. Come along as we’ve compiled five fantastic winter fashion ideas to prepare you to look fabulous and strut your stuff this season. Cotton Blazer Chronicles! Plus-size winter wardrobe vibes are falling head over heels for the formal spectrum. The Blazers are the ultimate power move in fashion! These dapper pieces scream confidence and are now at the top of the leaderboard of semi-business wear. Stay on-trend and own that bossy demeanor! Winter Elegance Redefined: The Essential Coat! No wonder plus-size winter fashion is going out of this world, and it’s the perfect moment for it. Nailing a chic plus-size must-have coat with some heavy boots and a chill sling bag gives you that whole vibe everyone’s into. Sleek Winter Must-have: Longline Stretch Jacket! This plus-size gem has taken the fashion world by storm, and let us tell you, no other jacket has stolen the spotlight quite like this one. It can inject life, even to the most tedious look, in no time. A big game-changer for your closet! Flex in Style: Introducing the Stretch Overcoat! With a cozy yet polished vibe, this winter essential is stealing the spotlight. If you seek that perfect blend of comfort and fashion in one wardrobe staple, go for this stretchy wonder! Feather-Light Elegance: Single Button Stretch Blazer! With the innovations of modern fashion creators, fall is no longer about those heavy, embroidered blazers, even for the curvy queens. The feather-light blazer is the ultimate savior of your comfort and style preferences. It is timeless, perfect for throwing on at the end of a memorable night. Another must-have for your winter wardrobe! So, it was our lineup of five fabulous plus-size winter outfits for the ladies, filled with astonishing patterns, variety, and textures. It’s all about feeling cozy and comfy, even in the freezing season! The best part? These winter collections give your style a significant upgrade. So, whether you’re in the mood to flaunt it or keep it low-key, these outfits are your go-to for embracing fashion freedom forever.

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Food

5 Vegan & Plant-Based Cooking Trends in 2024

There is hype in the market about vegan and plant-based food and beverages. And this modern genre has become a delectable space for nature-friendly culinarians. As veganism and plant-based food have traveled an exciting journey so far, 2024 is brimming with more contemporary features. A significant share of credit goes to the ever-evolving nature of these fields. Revolutionary trends and delish possibilities are emerging every now and then. So, buckle up, vegan and plant-based F&B enthusiasts, as we are set to indulge in the top 5 tips that will keep your taste buds on a spin! 1. Fermentation Fever While uber-favorite kombucha has taken a back seat, kimchi, sauerkraut, and tempeh fermentation are at the forefront of a fermentation revolution in 2024. Using these techniques, whip up a probiotic powerhouse, nurturing gut health while enriching your food’s umami and depth of flavor. Keep those fermentation jars away for some other time. Try making tempeh scramble, zesty kimchi fried rice, and pancakes; the experimentation continues! 2. Fungi fiesta As we enter 2024, mushrooms take on a much more significant role. The spotlight is now squarely on them as multi-talented superstars. Chefs are getting experimental and creative with meaty textures and earthy tastes, designing culinary delights such as lion’s mane pulled pork, oyster mushroom scallops, etc. Mushrooms are nutrient-dense, eco-friendly, and potentially therapeutic. Your taste buds and the environment will be grateful if you make room for mushrooms on your plate. 3. Jackfruit beats meat Smoky pulled pork sandwiches to chicken nuggets now have a new ingredient replacing the meat element. It is this tropical fruit. , These are just a few examples of the many meat-like dishes that include jackfruit, thanks to this fruit’s neutral flavor and mimicking textures. Dieticians recommend it as a protein source for novice and experienced vegans. Embrace the jackfruit resurrection with all its infinite energy! 4. Nothing goes waste Vegetables and fruit peels landing in the dust bins have been a significant concern. However, innovative approaches to reducing its impact in the kitchen will increase in 2024. This includes making colorful pesto out of vegetable leftovers or even vegan cheese from nut pulp. Find out how your veggies, fruits and nuts scraps may become tasty new dishes! 5. Ethical eating Plant-based living goes beyond what’s on your plate, and the year 2024 will highlight more on ethical sourcing, sustainable packaging, and supporting local farmers. This means small yet significant shifts, such as preferring organic produce whenever possible or, engaging with brands or dining in restaurants committed to ethical practices. Heeding these popular recommendations, you can improve your plant-based cooking skills and help create a better, more sustainable future. The world of plant-based edibles and potables has limitless potential; thus, be open to experimentation.

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Design Lifestyle

Offbeat Ways to Experience Local Culture

Hey there, curious souls and travel enthusiasts! If you’re tired of the typical tourist routine and crave an authentic connection with the places you visit, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into some offbeat ways to experience the local culture that goes beyond the usual sightseeing. If you’re an inbound tourist looking for authentic experiences beyond sightseeing, this one’s for you. Cooking up culture Food always provides yummy insight into any destination. Taking a cooking class to learn traditional recipes and ingredients from home cooks will add to your memory lane for the future. The hands-on experience made one feel like part of the family. Don’t forget to visit local markets to pick up fresh, local specialties. The spices, smells, and chatter will immerse you in daily life. Say it like a local Learning a few handy phrases in the native language helps break barriers. Try a fun language class to pick up vocabulary beyond just the basics. Making regular conversations, bargaining at markets, and making new friends is so much easier if the basic idioms and phrases are picked accordingly. Even learning to read street signs, restaurant menus, and subway maps helps you feel less like a tourist. Make home your humble abode Hotels are nice, but nothing compares to living in a local home. Arrange a homestay to experience daily routines first-hand. It opens eyes to traditions that are often never glimpsed otherwise. Best part? You make friends for life. Volunteer and venture deep Seek volunteer opportunities to support locals while learning from them. Not only does it make one see impactful initiatives up close, but it also fosters real relationships with communities. You gain a whole new perspective on life there. Walk with purpose Skip generic walking tours and pick experiential ones for insight into local lifestyles. With knowledgeable guides, every step unveiled new facets of culture – art, food, history, and religion. Slow travel opens your eyes wider! Get behind the lens Take photography tours with local pros to learn about culturally significant spots for that perfect photo op. Photos become priceless mementos and skills grow hugely. Not only that but it allows a moment to become still in the grip of a hand. Well, those are some of the top tips for inbound tourists to dive into local culture. Immersing yourself in the people, rhythms, and traditions of a place will create memories to last a lifetime. Instead of surface-level sightseeing, open your mind and heart to truly experience a destination. Trust me, you’ll never want to leave! Let me know which tip resonates most with your next travel plans.

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Destination Travel

India’s Train Journeys for the Ultimate Rail Adventure

Get ready for the ride of a lifetime! For travelers seeking a uniquely Indian experience, few things come close to the magic and wonder of crossing this vast country by train. India’s rail network is not just tracks and trains; it’s a gateway to incredible landscapes, major cities, remote villages, and a kaleidoscope of regional cultures. Are you planning a domestic trip? Buckle up for these spectacular train journeys that promise not just stunning scenery but a crispy, fun-filled adventure. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or just want a unique way to explore India, these iconic trains should be on your bucket list. 1. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway First on the list is the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, popularly and locally known as the ‘Toy Train.’ Embarking on this whimsical blue and white journey from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling, the 8-hour ride showcases ever-changing landscapes. The highlight is the stop at Batasia Loop, offering a panoramic 360-degree view of Darjeeling town. And let’s not forget the enchanting experience of sipping hot tea at Ghum station, India’s highest railway point. Do not forget to experience the amazing and wanderlust journey. 2. Nilgiri Mountain Railway Ever heard of the Nilgiri Mountain Railway? Heading down south, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway covers a scenic 46-kilometer stretch from Mettupalayam to Ooty, making way to the surreal blue mountains. The journey provides glimpses into local life, along with vibrant saris drying at tea plantations, craftsmen weaving reed mats, and more. An absolute must-do is visiting a tea factory in Ooty to unravel the secrets of tea-making while surrounded by the lush, green landscape. 3. Vasco Da Gama Express Ever been aboard the Vasco Da Gama Express? Waking up to the sight of shimmering lagoons, rivers, and the Western Ghats is nothing short of a delight. Coastal towns like Kannur still exude an old Portuguese vibe, with arched gateways, charming bungalows, and mouthwatering delights like Alle Belle cakes. This train seamlessly connects history and nature, making it a unique and unforgettable experience. Domestic tourism boosts the local economy, preserves cultural heritage, and fosters national unity. By traveling within the country, we support small businesses, artisans, and destinations that rely on tourism. Whichever you choose, an Indian train adventure will open your eyes to incredible landscapes, warm people, and profound history like nothing else can.

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