Ustad Amjad Ali Khan - Sarod Concert 8 Nov 2013

A Mesmerizing Evening Of Melodious Sarod Strains, Stirring Souls & Stealing Hearts!

By – Lt Col (Retd) D Purushothaman Pillay

On Friday, 8th November 2013, the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Academy, Ernakulam District Administration, Ernakulam Fine Arts Society and Ernakulam District Tourism Promotion Council, presented Padma Vibhushan - Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, to an enthralled evening gathering of Kochi music lovers, at the Fine Arts Hall. It was purported to be, the opening presentation of their new, year-long, weekend cultural extravaganza.

This Sarod concert was divided into three parts. The 45 minute long, first part, had the Bangash brothers, the elder Amaan Ali Bangash and the younger Ayaan Ali Bangash, who represent the seventh generation, in an unbroken chain of the Bangash Senia Gharana of Sarod players, breathing new life into ancient traditions. The duo recited the haunting rendition ‘Sur’ with aplomb and floored the audience, with their fast passages, delivered with brimming energy and acute precision.

The second part had the soulfully sensuous, 68 year old Sarod virtuoso Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, enrapturing the audience, by making the strings of the Sarod render delicate, evocative notes with the magic, of the grooved edges of the fingernails, of the first and second fingers, of his left hand. He played two exquisite renditions, with sophisticated elegance.  First, the melodious ‘Raag Khamaj’, followed by the euphonious, ‘Raag Zila Kafi’. The maestro used his signature trembling-pitch ornamentation, and highlighted important notes between rhythmic beats. His phrases began ever so mildly, became distended and plunged into apparent silence, only to re-emerge with an uplifting intense escalation. He alternated with some lightning fast phrases, but refrained from overwhelming you with unbridled power.

The third and final part of the evening recital was indeed a rare treat to watch. It was an enthralling, dynastic coming together, of a genius father and his two talented sons. The whole concert was bound together, with the exhilarating percussion accompaniment, provided by Tabla maestro Satyajit Talwalkar. This masterful accompanist gave a subdued performance, which occasionally drew rapturous applause for providing the crescendo time and again. But not for a single moment, the whole evening, did he allow his tabla to upstage the Sarod, which was the undeniable star of the occasion. It would indeed be pertinent, to apportion a part of the credit, to the invisible presence of the Master Sarod-Maker, late Hemendra Chandra Sen also. This perfectionist, is fabled to have custom-crafted, the many Sarods used by this trio, of the Bangash Gharana.

To those who are unfamiliar with this musical instrument, it is worth touching upon what this resonant, stringed fretless, wonder-provider, of the proverbial perfect musical 'Slide/Sweep' or 'Glissandi' is all about. Sarod, is a distinguished looking lute-like, stringed teak wood, instrument used in Indian classical music. It has a distinct rounded wooden back, with a goat skin soundboard, stretched across its resonator, having a chrome cast steel, unfretted finger board, across which is strung the 17 to 25 delicate steel or phosphor bronze strings. These strings are plucked with a triangular plectrum, traditionally made with polished coconut shell, ebony or cow bone.

The invention of the Sarod is attributed, by some historical accounts, to the ancestors of Ustad Amjad Ali Khan. Around three centuries ago, an unknown Afghan horse-trader and musician, Mohammed Hashmi Khan Bangash, migrated to India with a Central Asian Rubab. He then went on to become a court musician, to the King of Rewa. Little did he realise that his grandson Ghulam Ali Khan Bangash,  around 1820, would end up as a court musician of the Gwalior royalty and would be credited with remodeling the Rubab to create a Sarod. The Ghulam Ali / Gwalior Bangash Gharana, has ever since, preserved the tradition of playing the Sarod with distinction, to this day and generation.

Ustad Amjad Ali Khan is a disciple of his father, a renowned Sarod exponent, Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan, from Tansen's Senia Gharana. It is common knowledge that grand tradition, bears great responsibilities. But far from being burdened by history and lineage, Ustad steeped himself in a culture of liberal secularism. He is one classical musician, committed to a tradition, which offers freedom to innovate. Mind you it is a tough act, over these long years, to both maintain tradition, yet discover a new musical soul for the instrument. But our genius has managed to weave a rich tapestry of music, transcending generations. He has since the early 60s, been rightly credited with, popularizing the sounds of Asia, all over the world. That is an achievement of over half a century now, which any artiste can be justifiably proud of.

The highlight of the evening, for me personally, must certainly be the compelling trilogy, which was organized on a series of subtle cues. They intermittently played the theme in unison without percussion. Then the Ustad unfolded phrases, for each son to copy. There were compelling moments of hushed intimacies, stolen glances, which almost disappeared into elusive silences, amid disarming smiles. Gradually the music gained tempestuous intensity, with vigorous nods of the head, the rhythm gained momentum, to end in an unrestrained, enchanting euphoric unison passage. The crowd stood up to give a standing ovation to the Ustad and his team for creating the bewitching enchantment they did, those two memorable hours, which would remain forever etched in memory.

The packed hall was overwhelmed by this, unique fusion of the seven notes, showcased so mellifluously by the Bangash clan. It was a wonderful evening, for the lovers of this refined and pristine musical tradition. I will remember this as an unforgettable performance, which poured from the soul of a genius, for whom music is an undying and everlasting passion.

God bless the Ustad!!

Masala @ Holiday Inn, Cochin

Holiday Inn, Cochin 

‘Masala’ & ‘Roma’ The New Havens to Experience Culinary Bliss!!

By Lt Col (Retd) D Purushothaman Pillay

The Holiday Inn, Cochin under the able and astute stewardship of the new GM Mr Raju Shreshta, has definitely scaled up its act, a few notches, and has emerged, as one of the best run hotels in Kochi today. Towards the end of the last year though, the services left a lot to be desired. But then, thereafter on the many occasions since April this year, when we had both stayed and dined, at this fabulously located and well-appointed hotel, the feeling that pervaded the experience, was one of extreme satisfaction in stately comfort. There is a palpable passion one senses, in the hospitality experienced from this new enthusiastic team.

 

Thanks to the popular Priority Plus Club membership, the two restaurants - the all day dining 'Masala' & the Italian speciality 'Roma', one 24 hour coffee shop 'Deli KC' and the elegant sports bar 'Stadia', have become bustling, favored hubs, for both the members, and the hotel patrons, to entertain guests. As also a venue to wind down, relax and get pampered, at the end of a hard day. There is a discernible improvement in the selection of cuisine and efficiency of customer service, with the refreshing arrival of the new, experienced and energetic F&B Manager Bharathi Perumal. All the eateries, now wear a well-organized look about them.

The major architect of this positive turn around, we noticed in the quality of food, buffet selection and cuisine choice, is the man who dons the Dodin Bouffant here, the genial, perenially black jacketed, giant, Michael Saju, their multi-talented, Executive Sous-Chef. He is indeed an all-round ace, Rotisseur/Grillardin/Poissonnier & Patissier, all rolled into one. This was personally evidenced by a lucky few of us, for whom he had put together, a most delectable dinner, when we occasioned to wisely choose the warm and welcoming 'Masala' just the other night, for the celebration of a special birthday. The event was made overwhelmingly memorable, with the thoughtful selection and painstaking preparation, of a most exquisite choice of dishes, personally prepared by Michael.

I have to make a special mention, of a selection of a few standouts, from the four great courses; he meticulously dished out that night. Starting with the hors d'oeuvres, in which we were presented with some lusciously moist, "Jattuni Paneer Tikka" or Olive Marinated Cottage Cheese. The interplay of the delicate flavors of the olive paste and hung yoghurt tablets, well seasoned in a secret blend of the Chef's special Indian spices, on a slice of scalded onion was absolutely divine.

This was accompanied with an amazing entree - "Thai Grilled Sea Bass", marinated overnight in a complex blend of Thai red curry paste, sweet basil, lemon juice, cumin powder and coconut paste marinade. Bathed in this sapid seasoning, the innate natural succulence of the fish was infinitely enhanced.

What followed in the main course, to the accompaniment of some exclusive red wine, was one of the best steaks. We literally drooled over the "Minute Steak with Lemon & Coconut Reduction" steeped in a paste comprising of lemongrass, Kaffir lime leaves, galangal, coconut paste, Thai red chili and green curry mix. That was one, low fat sour-cream topped, paprika sprinkled, herb-garnished, hot slab of beef, which will never be forgotten. The "Braised Lamb Shanks" which we all indulgently wolfed down, were out of this world, 'shake-off-the-bone' perfect, my mouth is watering, at the very memory of that first bite into that unbelievably succulent mutton. I really wished, that night, that I had a second stomach, to repeat this pleasurable gastronomic delight, one more time. It was one of those rare nights, you never want to end.

Finally, the swoon-worthy dessert ensemble, had an unforgettable star attraction in a romantic, Rose Petal Ice Cream, one with great color and fragrance, certainly an ice cream which smelt as good as it tasted. 

The Birthday cake for the pretty lady, escorted by a huge, cheering contingent of the waiting staff, followed by their spontaneous, full throated rendition of the 'Happy Birthday' tune at the end of the meal, was most special. I literally had tears running down my cheek, bearing witness to this most wonderful gesture. That night their exceptional legion of hospitality volunteers, walked right into our hearts. They created a special memory, that would remain a 'forever keepsake'. Thank you Holiday Inn, it couldnt have been done any better.

Holiday Inn, Cochin, ever since Michael Saju took charge as the culinary helmsman, is a parade of piquant flavors, which satiates the stomach, as much as it stirs up the soul. Together with him, the smart and handsome Restaurant Manager Vaibhav Shah, is omnipresent, and ever smiling while pandering to the whims of the diners. He is a reassuring presence @ Masala. I must tell you that, this magnanimous soul, goes out of his way to indulge his guests and ensure they go back happy and fully satisfied. The Rs 900 odd, for their elaborate buffet, is indeed an attractive steal, just not worth missing, for anyone who enjoys good food or has pretensions to being labeled a 'Kochi Foodie'. Go and enjoy some of the best, most elaborate, creative and satisfying feasts in Kochi at either the 'Masala' or 'Roma' restaurants, at Holiday Inn. I bet, you would be spoilt to a fault, and will keep returning for more!!!

Tele Numbers :-

Reception/Reservations-     +91484-3319000/4199000
Fax -                                               +91484-4199111

F & B Manager Mr Bharathi Perumal -   +918129497435

Restaurant Manager Mr Vaibhav Shah -+918129497453

Sous-Chef Mr Michael Saju -               +918129497451

Facebook Link :-

 https://www.facebook.com/holidayinncochin/

Website :-

http://www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/cochin/coker/hoteldetail

Address :-

Holiday Inn, Cochin

33/1739 A Chakkaraparambu Junction,National Highway Bypass,

Vennala, Cochin – 682028

Kerala, India

Carnival Court Kakkanad

Carnival Court – Infopark Kakkanad

A Food Court That Comes As A Boon For The Kochi Techies.

Enjoy The Carnival !!!

By Lt Col (Retd) D Purushothaman Pillay

This all new, sprawling 24 hour Food Court is a welcome boon, for the thus far, neglected lot of IT professionals toiling hard, at the Kakkanad Infopark, Kochi. So now whether it is, to grab a hurried coffee, enjoy a relaxed lunch break with friends, celebrate a colleague's birthday or have a quick midnight snack, Carnival Court has something on offer, for each of these needs and more.

This chic eatery has a simplistic and minimalist, Bauhausian modernism associated with its styling. The brushed black exposed ceiling, with its network of wires, light domes, conduits, plumbing pipes and overhanging air ducts, gives a lot of cold character to the upper element of the space. The intermittent, black-domed, even-spaced, dangling, overhead lamps, suspends that distinct black element just above head level. The black theme continues from the exposed ceiling onto the tiling of the sidewalls, where the food counters are located, in the shape of an inverted letter 'L'. The palette is then, suddenly contrasted with the advent of seating in bold bright colors, around white-topped tables, resplendent on a contrasting faux-wooden brown floor, that are orderly placed along the transparence of floor to ceiling glass windows, which captures and puts in perspective, the contrasting natural and manmade, beauty and chaos outside, in one framed vista. For beside the picturesque fenestra, with its cascading sunlight, is a quite-flowing rivulet, with a neighboring, undulating, rain-ravaged street, that hosts a steady flow of wobbling, crater-avoiding, automobiles, that move like slow, stuperous, drunken vehicles, in front of those looming concrete blocks of the Infopark, all these are captured and encased in one fascinating, contradictory and dynamic composition, by that window. Energy saving has also been ensured, as there is absolutely no need for any artificial light by day, in the common seating area, because of the abundant natural light flowing in through those copious water-facing recesses.

The Carnival Group, founded by the Mumbai based GBC, has its core business in Media, Cinemas, Audio Video, Event Management, Film production and distribution. They have now added an amusement cum hospitality vertical, which offers a unique package of world class food, fun and entertainment, all consolidated under one roof. This brand called 'Carnival Court' is one of the most popular and rapidly expanding chains of Food Courts in South India. They started with their first venture at the International Airport Nedumbassery, in Aug 2012 and followed it quickly with another one at the KSRTC Bus Stand, Angamaly, before opening their third one in Kakkanad, barely two months ago, on 17 June 2013.

The Carnival Court offers a wide variety of cuisines. The Noodle Point offers Chinese, the Kebab Station serves Arabic, Simbly South is the place for South Indian, Swami's dishes out Pure Vegetarian fare, hit Mela for North Indian food, Flambe serves Continental and Kadal offers Seafood. The Gulp has a selection of Mocktails, Smoothies, Ice Creams, Desserts and Cold Beverages and finally the Red Bubble Cafe, is an all night cafeteria with Salads, Burgers, Curry Rice and Sandwich options, besides the brews.

I shall endeavor to give you a brief overview of each of the 9 stalls, including the delivery menu prices in Rupees, which is on average Rs 10 more than the dine-in charges. I shall be putting the costs in (brackets) for ease of identification.

The Chinese ‘Noodle Point’ offers 5 Non-Veg options - Chicken, Lamb, Beef, Fish and Prawns. The cost is between (120) for Beef, (140-160) for Chicken, (190) for Lamb, (180) for Fish and (310) for Prawns. There are 4 Veg options priced between (90) Diced Vegetables in Soya Garlic Sauce to (110) for Chilly Paneer/Gobi Manchurian. Fried Rice & Noodles(V/NV) is priced (90-120). Naasi Goreng is (130). The children absolutely loved the Egg Fried Rice and Chicken Noodles.

The Arabic ‘Kebab Station’, between 1600h to 2300h, offers Shawai & Al-Fahm Chicken (190-360) for half & full respectively. The Barbecued Drumsticks (170), Middle East Combo Platter (360) and Duo Of Kebab at (180) are other offerings. Shish Taouk is also available at a modest (170).

The South Indian ‘Simbly South’ offers Appam/Idiappam/Pathiri/Kerala Paratha (15) with Veg Kadala/Stew/Korma/Peas Curry (70) and Non-Veg Egg Roast/Curry (70), Fish/Karimeen/Neimeen/Squid/Prawn/Crab (190-310). Mutton Chops (180) Chicken/Beef variants come at (130). In addition there are Beef/Chicken/Fish Biriyanis (130-170) and Veg Biriyani (100). Between 1200h and 1500h, there is a selection of South Indian Meals - Fish/Beef/Chicken at (110-120-130).

Pure Vegetarian ‘Swami's’ offers Appam/Idiappam (15), a choice of Uthappams, Dosas and Puttus in the (40-60) bracket. Aloo Parantha (50) & Poori Bhaji (60). Chaats - Samosa Chaat, Mirchi Chaat, Aloo Chaat, Pani/Bhel Puris cost between (50-70). Pav Bhaji comes at (80). The Uzhunnu Vada, Parippu Vada, Ulli Vada, Aloo Bonda, Sukhiyan, Ela Ada etc are all priced at (15). 3 Idlies (35) all the Stews/Curries/Kormas/Bhajis are (60). Between 1200h and 1500h Veg Meals (80) and Veg Biriyani (90) are also available.

The North Indian ‘Mela’ offers the staples like Nan/Roti/Kulcha/Chapati/Phulka in the (15-35) range, with the rices Steamed/Jeera (60-70) and Veg/Kashmiri Pulaos (80). From the Tandoor one has the famous Tandoori Chicken Full/Half (200-360), Tandoori Prawns (460), Mutton Seekh Kebab (180), Reshmi Kebab (160), Fish Tikka (210), Chicken Tikka (160), Veg Kebab (110) and Paneer Tikka (150). The Non-Veg curries included Chicken Makhni/Tikka Masala/Kadai (130), Fish Amritsari (150) and Mutton Rogan Josh/Rara Masala/Shahi Korma/Vindaloo (170). The Veg fare included Paneer Kadai/Butter Masala (110), Dum Aloo (100), Mixed Veg/Jalfrezi/Aloo Gobi (80) and Dal Tadka/Makhni (70).

 The Continental ‘Flambe’ has Salads Green/Greek/Caesar (80-90-110), Sandwich/Burgers - Veg Cheese Tomato/Veg (70-80), Non-Veg Club Sandwich (130) Beef Burger (120) and Chicken Burger (100). Pizzas Veg Margherita/Napolitana M/L (100-150), Chicken/Beef M/L (120-180). Pastas Penne Alfredo (150) and Spaghetti Bolognese (160). Crispy Fried Chicken (CFC) Combos with Fries, Buns & Soft Drinks with 2/4/6/12 Pc options priced (140/250/350/620), Chicken Nuggets (120) & Fish Fingers (170). Desserts like Chocolate Brownie/Fruit Salad (90-70)

Seafood Specialty ‘Kadal’ offers both Indian and Continental choices. A Kerala Seafood Platter (400), Ularthu/Grilled Squid/Prawns (220-300), Crab Masala (180), Pollichathu Sardine/Mackerel (80-100). Fish curries Mulakittathu/Alleppey/Travancore/Moily (140), Prawn Moily (300). The fry/Pollichathu of Karimeen/Neimeen/Pomfret is charged as per size. The Continental Grilled Seafood Platter is just (400), Crumb/Batter Fried Prawns/Squid (350-220), the Catch Of The Day, and Grilled Seer Fish in Lemon Butter Sauce, are charged as per size.

‘Gulp’ Beverages offers a range of Mocktails(True Blue, Tornado Twist, Blue Lady, Brimstone, Green Apple Mint Cooler)/Cold Beverages(Seasonal Fruit Juices)/Smoothies(Berries Blast, California Rainbow, Berry Banana Punch, Mango Banana Smoothie)/Milk Shakes(Regular-Vanilla/Strawberry, Premium-Chocolate/Butterscotch/Pista) (90-70-100-110) Packaged Water (25), Soft Drinks 600/300ml (40-25), Fresh Lime (20) Fresh Lime Soda (25), Ice Creams (Premium/Ordinary) 2 scoops (60-50) and Iced Tea (50).

Between 2300h to 0700h the All Night  Diner ‘Red Bubble Café’ has Veg/Non-Veg Salads (80-100), Beef/Chicken Burgers (90), Veg/Chicken/Club Sandwiches(60-90-110), Curry-Rice Combo Fish/Chicken/Veg (140-120-100).

They also have a Breakfast service, between 0700h to 1000h, for the office goers, that has Eggs To Order (60), Cereals (70), Samosa/Cutlet/Cookie (15), Coffees - Normal, Americano, Espresso, Cappuccino, Macchiato, Latte (20-40-50), Teas - Sada, Masala, Green, Chamomile (15-20-35) and Hot/Cold Chocolate (50).

There are some exciting ongoing offers, like a 15% off, between 1500h to 1900h, on the weekdays, Monday to Friday, at all the specialty cuisine stations. Kadal offers an everyday of the week, special flat 15% off, for all hours. During the weekend a single bill in excess of 1000, gets to choose from one Ice Cream/Milkshake/Chicken Nuggets, for free. There are Red Bubble Cafe combo offers of Veg/Non-Veg Sandwiches for (75-100) or Veg/Non-Veg Burgers for (90-110) served along with French Fries, Coleslaw & Soft Drink.

In addition to the expansive Food Zone, this food court boasts of a fairly large Fun Zone, called ‘E Drive’. Here one can hangout with friends and colleagues, playing Snooker, Air Hockey and PlayStation Games at very reasonable rates. The Snooker Table is yours at (60 for 30 mins or 100 for an hour), Air hockey at (50 for 15 min spells) and PlayStaion at (30-50 for 1-2 Players for 15 mins).

There is also the thoughtful provision of an enclosed intimate lounging space, that can seat around 40 odd people, away from the bright, open dining areas. This is just right for customers, who prefer some privacy, or need some solitude and be left alone. The space can also be used to host celebrations and small private get-togethers.

The biggest bonus of all, for people who reside in Kakkanad, is that a call on the Hotline number 8113070707 between 1100h to 2200h will ensure prompt, scooter-borne, hot-cased, home delivery within 5 kms, for orders above Rs 200 and also within 10 kms, for orders above Rs 500. This distance for deliveries, was previously unheard of, in Kochi and a God sent boon for both, the busy office worker and the lazy home dweller.

This contemporary, subtly styled space, wears a bright and cheerful look, manned by a smartly turned out and courteous staff, this joint looks efficiently managed. It is very neat and clean, well maintained, with ample seating, the only time I envisage the place will fill up, is during the rush, of a working day, lunch break. The food was freshly cooked, promptly served, hot and well presented. The water services and clearances were prompt and smooth. Even the toilets were very clean and tidy. However the car parking availability, may need some urgent augmentation, alternatively valet parking if possible, would be a welcome facility to add. I would like to also suggest two minor additions, in the available space, one a small gym, for the fitness conscious. The second one, a 20 seater mini theatre, for the movie, sports, music & TV buff, that facilitates screenings of movies, cricket matches, other global sports events or music, news or popular serials, when not engaged in private screening. This asset, could also double up as a venue for private corporate presentations/training. That would then complete the package of food, entertainment, fitness and relaxation. It will encourage people, who have a lonely existence, after their office engagements, to hangout longer, in company, having the choice of doing the things they love to do with friends, all in the same environment. This will build the brand and encourage loyalty, which will translate to greater footfalls, and additional turnover on the food front, as well as generate more alternate revenues, from the same space.

Honestly, I am no great fan of food courts. I went only on the insistence of my mall rat, elder son, with little hope of discovering any new place, I might grow to like. But then, I was in for a surprise, each one of us, including my children, were charmingly bewildered at the marvellous taste of the food, we had ordered. It was delicious and made by skilled hands, well versed in the cuisine. The portions were copious too, leaving everyone feeling pleasantly satiated. In fact, all of us enthusiastically tolled the bell while exiting, indicating our happiness, at being unexpectedly, so well fed. We would definitely be returning here more often and will also be using the home delivery.

Carnival Court, I feel has aptly filled a much needed void, in the neglected Kakkanad foodscape. It is a winner all the way. The location is perfect, the timing of launch very right and the 24 hours eatery concept, is ideal for the location and the patrons likely to frequent the facility. The absolute clincher however, is the variety of cuisine, all deliciously prepared at very reasonable pricing. Being just round the corner, I am positive that this Food Court will be patronized by the starved, teeming, brainy techies of the many buildings in Infopark, and also the lucky residents of the high rise apartments proliferating in the neighbourhood. These people, who had earlier had no choices, are now spoilt for choice, with the arrival of Carnival Court. It is definitely worth a visit, to get a first hand feel of this new, wonderful and bustling 'fun-eating' place.

Go enjoy the Carnival!!!!

Timings:

Breakfast -       Red Bubble Cafe -   0700 - 1000
Lunch -     Swami's, Simbly South -  1200 - 1500
Kebabs -              Kebab Station -  1600 - 2300
All Night Diner - Red Bubble Cafe -  2300 - 0700

Phones:

Ops Manager- Aneesh George          +91-8943354613

Guest Relations- Maheshwari Menon +91-8943354614
HOTLINE -

Home/Office Delivery(1100-2200)     +91-8113070707

Address:

Carnival Court, Infopark Kakkanad

Opposite Leela Infopark, Phase IV,

Infopark Road, Kakkanad, 
Kochi - 682030

Links:

Facebook page  - https://www.facebook.com/CarnivalCourt/info

Website           - www.carnivalcourt.in