Communism, they say, is dead. Post the dissolution of the USSR, only a handful of countries wave the red flag with the hammer and sickle. It’s interesting that, today, Kerala has the only elected Communist government within the most populated democracy in the world. Unlike West Bengal, which was ruled by a Communist party for 40…

Gujaratis are the most enterprising people in India. The state bears testament to years of enterprise mixed with steely discipline. Industries and modern buildings dot the landscape as one travels from one city to another. Culture and advancement go hand in hand, making this one of the country’s richest and safest states. Historically and economically,…

A city of great historical significance and culture, Amritsar is in the state of Punjab. This city is home to the holiest shrine of the Sikh community, the Golden temple, which is unnaturally clean and actually looks more majestic up close. Other attractions include Jalianwala Bagh and of course, the Wagah border, 30 km away. Seeing…

Maharashtrian food changes as you move inland. The landscape becomes rugged as the Arabian sea is left behind. Not surprisingly, the food changes as well. This is where south Indian influences start showing. Beyond Maharashtra lie the south Indian states, each having their distinct cuisine and cooking styles. My journey brought me 7 hours inland…

Have you ever wondered what a “cassata” is? By definition, it is a Sicilian dessert which has a sponge cake, covered in layers of ice cream, dried fruits and nuts. The flavours of ice cream can vary, depending on the intended outcome. In India, the most popular being the rainbow cassata. Now, as far as…