Lifestyle

Seoul, Dec 17 (IANS) High-powered girl group XG hinted at a New Year comeback single, also announced the release of their first season's greetings gift package.

XG announced that they will launch their first season's greetings merchandise on January 16, 2023.

The exclusive package will consist of items themed around 'The Outdoors' and 'House Party' and will include a 2023 wall calendar, a photobook, photo cards, message cards, posters and a box containing highly collectible XG stickers.

A teaser for this package has also been released on YouTube.

Additionally, an image hinting at the release of a new track was uploaded to XG's social networks. The text, which appears on a clothing tag, suggests that the long-awaited third single is expected to drop early in the new year.

The dance, vocal and rap performance videos released after 'Mascara', ranking number one on the iTunes charts in 17 territories as well as the Spotify Viral 50 in 21 territories.

The rap content by XG's four rappers -- Cocona, Maya, Harvey and Jurin -- released in November surpassed seven million views on YouTube and more than 11 million views on TikTok, despite the song not having an official release.

Rappers, producers, influencers and even professional athletes reacted to the track, and the numbers are still growing.

--IANS
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By IANSlife
New Delhi, Dec 17 (IANSlife) Winter is upon us! Winter is the best season for travel, whether your ideal getaway involves an exhilarating ski trip or a flight to a warmer location.


The hidden getaways from Ultima Collection are made to feel like home, whether you're rejuvenating at your own health retreat in the Swiss Alps, skiing from your own serviced chalet in France, or savouring every moment on your villa's private dock in the Mediterranean. Beyond the carefully chosen ski chalets, retreats, spas and villas, you'll discover a group of professionals with unyielding standards who work to offer their visitors highly individualised experiences in complete comfort and solitude. This is savouring life to the fullest.

Ultima Gstaad

Set in the rolling meadows of Gstaad, Ultima Gstaad is where timeless Swiss luxury meets the mountains. Gstaad is a pristine Alpine village that's somehow equally out-of-this-world as it is down-to-earth. Experience all its wonders, undoubtedly one of the finest properties in Switzerland. Sink into your own uniquely designed suite or residence, reminiscent of a private chalet, to live in utter luxury and discretion.
From wall to wall, you'll discover lovingly curated artwork, plush interiors, and a smooth-operating team to cater to your most spontaneous of requests. There are three wooden chalets of 11 suites, six private residences, a restaurant and two inviting bars. Plus, there's a leading Swiss clinic and spa for recharging to full.
Each space is exquisitely crafted for snug evenings after a day of skiing in the mountains. Think steam fireplaces (child and dog friendly), lavish bathrooms and dark, swirling marble from floor to ceiling, and balconies with breathtaking and inescapable views of Alps.

Ultima Courchevel Belvedere

Ultima Courchevel Belvédère re-opens for the winter season on December 17. The resort is made up of 13 ski-in and ski-out residences with privileged, uninterrupted views of the forested mountains. Balance days of skiing with mind-soothing treatments in the resort's world-class spas, private chef experiences, and moments in the elegant lobby and terrace area.

Post-ski body massages and morning dips in the outdoor heated pool as snow falls around you. That's the dreamy reality for the guests. Dependant on which residence you're staying in, you will access one of the two state-of-the-art spas. They feature sensual saunas, hammams, fitness rooms, heated pools, and an outdoor jacuzzi. Dedicated spa therapists and masseuses are there to provide personalised wellness experiences and innovative treatments such as yoga-focused cold therapy.

Each residence comprises four or five bedrooms that sleep up to eight to ten adults. It's perfect for a family or group of friends looking to savour their precious time together. What's truly special about this property is its location among three different valleys; connecting to the upscale 1850 and the edge of the La Rosiere Forest. Natural beauty is not in short supply here. Breakaway from the crowds to a retreat with bubbling outdoor pools, atmospheric fitness rooms, and talented massage therapists whenever the moment calls.

Ultima Crans-Montana

No one leaves Ultima Crans-Montana a little bit in love -- it leaves you completely awestruck. Positioned in the altitude of Plateau de Plan-Mayens, this haven of two private chalets can be enjoyed by multi-generational families and groups of friends.
Know that nothing is done in half measures here, with an on-site lake surrounded by idyllic alpine wilds, a quartz-clear swimming pool that mirrors the mountains beyond and a heavenly spa, covering 1,000m², that much larger hotels couldn't claim to match. Rejuvenate in the sauna, hammam, fitness gym, jacuzzi and heated outdoor pool. It's all brought to life by Baccarat crystal chandeliers and Kelsey Grey and Bahia Blanca marbles.

It goes above and beyond accommodating a large group of up to 38 guests. It's made up of two ultra-luxurious private chalets, which can be reserved together or Chalet One by itself. Both have access to the retreat's monumental spa and outdoor pool area.
Chalet One, covering 3850m², has eight rooms. Each has its own dressing area, bathroom, and balcony with views of the surrounding wilds. Children can stay in the two dormitories. There's also an arcade room, cigar lounge, billiard room and a homely dining room that can seat up to 16 people. Chalet Two, covering 820m², has six spacious rooms with their own dressing areas, bathrooms and balconies. There is an open kitchen for socialising, a cinema room, library and cigar lounge.

Ultima Megeve

Intimate chalets primed for entertainment in the Alps. Set in tranquil French wilds, looking out to horse-dotted pastures and the snow-tipped peak of Mont Blanc, this exquisite pair of private chalets have been designed with multigenerational families or large group of friends in mind.

There's everything from an arcade room, underground private nightclub, stocked wine cellar, a gymnasium, and a full spa with a hammam, a massage room and dedicated hairdresser facilities. Put simply, there's no other mountain retreat around that offers this much fun.

Hints of which you will find in the hand-carved woods and bronze-covered chimneys, bespoke furniture, leather-padded headboards and marble touches. Every bedroom has a connecting dressing room and ensuite bathroom -- all curated with the beige and gold tones that have become synonymous with the signature design of Ultima Collection.
Additionally, you will have access to the property's concierge staff, so whether it's a chef rustling up a last-minute celebratory dinner, or the front of house mapping a walking trail for your group, your stay will be fine-tuned to you.

Ultima Geneva Grand Villa

A distinctive urban retreat on the shores of lake Geneva, Ultima Geneva Grand Villa is one of the highest epitome of modern luxury. Set in a verdant grove within walking distance of the Lake's shores, this three-floored villa is just a short journey away from the livelier city hub and Geneva International Airport.
Over three floors, the villa covers 2,000m² and comes with a separate villa for any extended guests to enjoy their privacy. There is a master bedroom with its own terrace, seven double bedrooms, a grand cinema, and a wellness space comprising a jacuzzi, hammam, sauna, pool and fitness gymnasium.

Shed the weight of the city, or simply savour time invested in you, with treatments by Swiss Perfection. All while admiring the beauty of Geneva's nature in a space that allows you enviable views. The state-of-the-art spa has a large treatment room, a jacuzzi, hammam and sauna. You can also have access to a private fitness coach and physiotherapist.

A private chef is available to create the most memorable dining moments meant for you and your loved ones. There's a large dining area, a wine cellar and a teppanyaki dining space perfect for group getaways or intimate family gatherings.

(IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

--IANS
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New Delhi, Dec 17 (IANS) Online higher education platform upGrad is not going ahead with its acquisition of Exampur which is a test-prep provider for government jobs.

upGrad in August announced to acquire Exampur for an undisclosed sum.

"We are presently very focused on adult learning and, therefore, this is a strategic call for us. We are happy to re-evaluate this in the future," the company told IANS in a statement.

"There have been no disagreements on the valuation," the company spokesperson added.

Noida-based learning platform Exampur aims to reach Rs 70 crore (nearly $7.5 million) in revenue this fiscal. Co-founded in 2018 by Vivek Kumar and Vardan Gandhi, the platform has a user base of over 10 million students.

Exampur offers over 200 test-prep courses for govt. jobs where most of the content is delivered through its YouTube channels for the UPSC, SSC, defence, banking, teaching and other state-level government jobs.

Ninety per cent of paid users of Exampur are from tier 2, 3 and 4 markets.

Additionally, Exampur offers online test series, free quizzes and live scholarship tests.

upGrad acquired more than a dozen edtech startups in the recent past, like Delhi-based Harappa Education, Bengaluru-based recruitment and staffing firm Wolves, and corporate training startup Centum Training.

Amid the deepening layoff winter, the online higher education platform may ask a major chunk of its employees -- about one-third or even more -- to go in days to come, according to people familiar with the matter. The company, however, has denied any upcoming layoff -- large or small.

--IANS
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By N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe
New Delhi, Dec 17 (IANSlife) "Variety is the spice of life, whoever said this understood the need to break away from the monotony of every day," says Sanjay Singha, co-founder of GetOut App. With Work from Home culture gaining popularity, there has been a rise in co-working spaces and professionals, freelancers, and remote workers flocking to their nearest coffee shop that offers decent Wi-Fi and coffee. But have you ever wondered why? Why would anyone want to get out of their comfort zone, even while working out of the office? Spend money on endless cups of coffee and sit amid the everyday buzz. It's because studies claim that people feel more productive at a coffee shop.


"It triggers a stimuli response to get work done, which automatically makes you finish work faster. Since you are sitting at a place, not your home, you are less likely to procrastinate and finish up the work, you feel more focused regardless of the buzz of noise outside," adds Sanjay.

Wondering why would you not go to the office instead? Well, blame the overall formal environment, strict schedule, and a fixed time to come and leave.

Sanjay says, "Coffee shops thus become the best of both worlds. A place where you can leave at your own leisure, work without being micro-managed, and have no distractions from your home."

One can also look at the mellow sounds and buzz of restaurants similar to the role played by white noise. The same reason some people tend to plug in earphones or play white noise while sleeping, studying or doing chores.

When a group of people are working with their macs out, you tend to work in the same manner as well. You get the feel of a workplace that is not your home without the added burden of office.

The need to escape the dull 9-5 routine of doing the same things over and again in different forms and his desire to tackle real-world problems pushed Sanjay to leave his cushy corporate job and co-found GetOut, "This need to escape, take a break, and get a change of scenery can also be looked at as one of the biggest motivating factors to come and work from cafes. This breath of fresh air automatically relaxes making you more productive."

(N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe can be contacted at lothungbeni.h@ians.in)

--IANS
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New Delhi, Dec 12 (IANS) India's largest multidisciplinary arts event, Serendipity Arts Festival, will be held from December 15-23 in Goa.

The festival brings together diverse creative expressions from the region of South Asia and promotes its cultural heritage through varied projects. The performance segment will see curation by Bickram Ghosh, Ehsaan Noorani, Quasar Thakore Padamsee, Mayuri Upadhya and Geeta Chandran. The music performances with multi-genre and unique performances will celebrate the coming together of traditional and contemporary forms.

Bickram Ghosh and Ehsaan Noorani will curate the Music section with a series of concerts covering diverse genres from classical, fusion, folk, indie pop, rock, and more.

Innovators like Sanjay Mondal will be leading a group of children through instruments made from scrap and waste material.

Bickram Ghosh will also be paying tribute to ace music composer RD Burman through his project titled 'The World of Pancham: An RD Burman Tribute'.

Celebrating India's 75th year of independence, the festival will offer artists a platform to perform and showcase their art.

The programming this year will give weightage to Interdisciplinarity, which will be further explored by Quasar Thakore Padamsee and Geeta Chandran through their projects intersecting dance, drama, music and storytelling.

Speaking about the curation, Geeta Chandran said, "I am energized by my curatorial assignment for the 2022 Serendipity Fest. Reclaiming performance after a pandemic hiatus got my juices flowing again! This is indeed a unique opportunity for me to bring to the festival truly inter-disciplinary work since the festival gives curators complete freedom to explore the creative forms of expression. Puppeteers with dancers, theatre artists with dancers, different dance forms dialoging with each other, all very exciting and fresh... ."

The fifth edition of the festival will explore ways to enhance public engagement with the arts and boost the soft power of the nation by making art and culture a part of everyday conversations.

Exploring the post-pandemic transition from the virtual to the physical, choreographer, educationist and creative entrepreneur Mayuri Upadhya will focus on engaging and immersive nature of the arts that delves deeper in the culture and its stories. The range of projects will celebrate the socio-cultural milieu of the region through traditional and contemporary dance and choreographic practices.

A confluence of artists from diverse backgrounds will underline the Goan spirit of SAF. Curated by Goa-based classical guitarist Shayamant Behal, 'Music in the Park' features some of Goa's finest musicians who will regale audiences with daily performances.

--IANS
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By Dr. Rashmi Shetty
New Delhi, Nov 13 (IANSlife) For obvious reasons, taking care of the skin continues to be important. Therapies and practices for taking care of the skin have advanced along with technology. Given the current buzz surrounding bio-remodeling, you may be wondering how it differs from other treatments already in use, such as dermal fillers. Botox and other types of fillers were popular for many years among those wishing to enhance the condition and appearance of their skin. However, given that bio-remodeling is receiving so much attention, it's critical to comprehend how they differ and the advantages that each provides.


We'd like to make clear that both treatments use hyaluronic acid (HA), a hydrating stimulant, before we go into the differences, even though one may have a higher concentration than the other. So let's get started right away.

What is bio-remodeling?

In order to assist the skin retain moisture, promote collagen, improve skin suppleness, and overall renew the skin, it is simply an injectable version of hyaluronic acid that is injected beneath the layers of the skin. It can be injected into several body areas, including the face, neck, knees, hands, and even the stomach.

What are dermal fillers?

Hyaluronic acid also makes up dermal fillers, however they have a gel-like consistency. They are injected into particular facial regions, including the lips, chin, and nose. They can also be applied to the face to create contours for a better appearance. Additionally, they are quite helpful in reducing wrinkles and moisturising the specific areas of the face, giving them a fuller, younger, and healthier appearance.

Bio-remodelling vs dermal fillers

The first distinction to make is that HA concentrations in bio-remodelling are typically higher, which acts to increase the skin's production of HA, collagen, and elastin. Cellular transformation occurs, leading to noticeable enhancements that endure long after the HA has subsided. Additionally, the texture of bio-remodelling is runnier, supporting uniform distribution throughout various body areas. Bio-remodelling filler has been found to improve the general texture of the skin, particularly in regions where it had previously seemed crumply, thin, or crepey. On the other side, the filler is thicker and more viscous.

The way they are used and applied is another obvious distinction. The hydrolift effect that results from bio-remodelling targets specific predefined spots to help tighten the skin and increase hydration. This procedure can also help cure eczema, acne, hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation, and a number of other disorders. It can consistently provide skin plumping in various areas since it spreads evenly. Dermal fillers, which help to lift, volumize, fill, and shape particular areas, are thicker in texture and stay put where they are applied.

A discrepancy in treatment frequency is also present. Two treatments spaced one month apart are used for bio-remodelling. This is the recommended dosage, but after the first two treatments, anyone who wants a top-up can have one. With fillers, this is not the case. After careful examination, each person must rely on the counsel of a licensed dermatologist or cosmetic injector consultant. The use of fillers should only be repeated once every 16 to 18 months, though.

Finally, bio-remodelling is done over the course of two scheduled treatments that are separated by a month. Getting an injection may just take ten minutes. Typically, each session comprises of 10 injections that are deliberately administered in various shots. While some people will start to see improvements 7 days after their first session, the majority of people see complete transformation around 30 days after their second appointment. This is because collagen needs time to be stimulated and disseminated throughout the various problem regions. Additionally, it will be roughly 6 months before a subsequent treatment is necessary.

If you're wondering which is best for you, here's a spoiler; if you require wholesome skin rejuvenation across different parts of your body, bio-remodelling is what you should go for. When you need a specific part correction, change of shape, remodelling or filler deficit, it becomes more targeted, hence, enhancing, changing, and modifying the shape of the face. However, HA in a bio-stimulator will not do any of these. There will be no change in the structure or shape of your face. All it will do is boost your own collagen, thereby making your skin look beautiful. Thus, if you don't want any structural change, bio-remodelling is the solution, but if you want structural changes and only need to boost specific areas of your face, such as your nasal bridge, chin and lips, then dermal filler and bio-stimulator together work best.

Above all, it is important to only use certified brands. Profhilo is one of the top-rated solutions out there, and it comes highly recommended. Otherwise, you may just be putting yourself at risk by using unscrupulous practitioners or products.

(Dr. Rashmi Shetty, Consultant Aesthetic Dermatologist)

(IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

--IANS
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New Delhi, Nov 13 (IANSlife) November 20 marks World Children's Day, a day dedicated to celebrating togetherness and awareness among children worldwide. With more than half (54 per cent) of global travellers wanting to visit a destination that's enjoyable for both kids and adults on their next trip, it's the perfect opportunity to plan a trip to a unique accommodation that will allow kids to make new friends whilst having a memorable vacation with their family.

With a mission to make it easier for everyone to experience the world, Booking.com has delved into its more than 28 million properties in over 159,000 destinations across the globe to share seven family-friendly accommodations for an unforgettable break. From a treehouse hotel in Finland to a cowboy-style inn in Brazil, these stays put the magic of childhood at the heart of travel.

Pousada Vila do Cowboy, Penha, Brazil
This charming inn is located in Penha, situated in the south of Brazil. The fun-filled city is popular for its plethora of attractions that will excite and delight both young and old, including Latin America's largest theme park, Beto Carrero World. The amusement park features over 100 attractions divided into seven distinct areas, from an animal world to a pirates island and an extreme adventure playground for thrill seekers. Guests staying at the nearby, family-run Pousada Vila do Cowboy can opt to travel to the park in the hotel's special Sheriff's Car for the ultimate experience to gear up the kids for the adventure.

Back at the hotel, guests will enjoy an eccentric stay at this cowboy-styled inn, which boasts a swimming pool and a large garden with a playground and dedicated kids' space. This property also holds a Booking.com Travel Sustainable badge thanks to its sustainability efforts in supporting the local community including providing a platform for local artists to perform and serving locally sourced food. Families can take in the city with a Highlights of Balneerio Camboriu City Tour, which gives access to popular sites worth visiting including the Cristo Luz statue of Jesus Christ, Unipraias Park and the Oceanic Aquarium - or head to one of the many surrounding beaches to keep the kids entertained.

Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire, Winchfield, United Kingdom
Winchfield is a small village in Hampshire situated in the south-east of England and bursting with a multitude of outdoor activities to keep the kids stimulated. Take the family on a countryside escape to the exquisite 18th century Georgian manor house, Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire. The hotel has a variety of activities on offer across its sprawling grounds, and guests can choose to practice their swing on the tennis court, tour the grounds with a spot of horse riding, embark on a forest escapade or take a splash in the family adventure pool.

Youngsters have the opportunity to make lifelong memories at the hotel's children's club which offers exciting experiences such as football, crafting and treasure hunts, while parents can utilize the downtime to indulge in a pampering session at the spa. For a day trip away, book a trip to LEGOLAND Windsor Resort which features over 55 rides and attractions as well as larger-than-life LEGO brick replicas of iconic landmarks from around the world.

Arctic TreeHouse Hotel, Lapland, Finland

Sitting on the edge of the Arctic Circle, the Finnish town of Rovaniemi in the Lapland region of Finland is coated in pillowy snow for most of the year. With such a picture-book wintry setting, it's no surprise that Santa Claus officially calls Rovaniemi home. At the Santa Claus Village amusement park, kids can meet jolly St. Nick himself and visit the post office that gets over half a million letters every year from kids around the world. Only a stone's throw away from Santa Claus Village and located onsite at SantaPark Arctic World is the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel.

Offering Nordic design suites with breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and magical Northern Lights for lucky guests, families can enjoy complimentary skiing at the hotel and easy access to venture out and explore the area by bike or foot. The hotel holds a Booking.com Travel Sustainable badge for its sustainable efforts taken to offer guests a more sustainable stay, including its use of Finnish wood, which is a traditional and renewable material, planting up to 10,000 trees every year and serving up local produce at the onsite Rakas Restaurant & Bar. For those chasing the breathtaking Northern Lights, book a Northern Lights Snowmobile Tour for an opportunity to ride underneath the stars in search of this extraordinary natural phenomenon, before stopping around a campfire in the wilderness for a warming beverage and local fare.

Universal's Lowes Sapphire Falls Resort, Orlando, United States
Located in the heart of Florida is Orlando, a theme park funfest city, with enough rides, attractions and shows to keep both children and adults entertained for weeks. It's not surprising that this city is highly recommended by Booking.com travellers for theme parks, family and entertainment, and Universal's Lowes Sapphire Falls Resort is the perfect place for thrill seeking families to stay - conveniently located within walking distance of most of the nearby amusement parks.

Beautifully decorated throughout, with rooms featuring views overlooking a huge centerpiece pool, guests of all ages can keep themselves occupied with onsite activities from ping pong and water balloon games to a pool table and games room with classic and new video games. For something a bit more off-the-beaten-path, book the Four-activity Package for Andretti Indoor Karting for an array of family-friendly fun including laser tag, indoor go-karting and an arcade arena.

AMERON Davos Swiss Mountain Resort, Davos, Switzerland
For travellers dreaming of downhill slopes and fresh powder during the winter season, the Swiss town of Davos is a popular winter resort and the largest in the Alps for mountain and ski vacations. Located in the centre, the AMERON Davos Swiss Mountain Resort embodies luxury whilst maintaining a cozy feel with soft furnishings and bright splashes of colour. Rooms have an alpine chic design, with each featuring a balcony overlooking the crisp white snowscapes. Guests can take advantage of the Kids Corner & Cozy Club which is free of charge, and where children can meet daily with their newfound friends whilst parents ski or relax in the spa.

From 2.00 - 4.30 p.m. the heated indoor pool belongs to the kids, giving them ample opportunity to enjoy splash time, followed by dinner at the Cantinetta restaurant, which serves up a special kids' buffet as well as mouthwatering fondue options. For the 35 per cent of travellers who report that the sustainability of their accommodation plays a significant role in where they stay, this Booking.com Travel Sustainable resort is ideal as it takes steps to ensure it contributes to the conservation and protection of the environment.

Bed en Breakfast de Olm, Kaatsheuvel, Netherlands
For those who don't believe in fairy tales, a trip to Efteling, one of the largest theme parks in the Netherlands, might just change their mind. Situated in the southern part of the country, the magical Efteling promises a 'world of wonders'. Celebrating its 70th anniversary in 2022, travellers can purchase a One-day Admission Ticket to Efteling Theme Park to explore the new attractions on offer at the World of Sindbad, experience an adrenaline rush on the rollercoaster, tour the beautiful grounds for some downtime or enjoy a relaxing boat tour.

Families can bed down at the nearby Bed en Breakfast de Olm, a charming B&B within walking distance of the theme park. This spacious property is ideal for families as it has a cozy home-away-from-home feel, whilst the decor is sleek and modern. A delicious fresh buffet breakfast is offered daily, whilst those wishing to explore the surrounding area can rent bikes for a family cycling trip.

Hoang Hung Hotel, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam located in the southeast region and surrounds the scenic Saigon River. Families can book a visit to the popular and vibrant Sui Tien Amusement Park, a Buddha-themed fantasy land comprising over 100 entertainment facilities for kids and adults, and where dragons, unicorns and a phoenix can be spotted across the park. A dip in Vietnam's first man-made wave pool there is recommended, and if visiting on a weekend travellers will hear live music from up-and-coming artists.

The Hoang Hung Hotel is handily located a short distance away from the park, and has a swimming pool and children's play area complete with a ball pit, mini arcade games and indoor playground to keep the kids entertained. To learn more about the culture of this Asian country, families can purchase tickets for a Golden Dragon Water Puppetry Performance where they will learn about the traditions of Vietnam through a fun puppet show that brings ancient stories to life.

For those travellers looking for an unforgettable vacation with the kids, Booking.com is sharing Late Escape Deals to tick another destination off their 2022 wishlist. Discounts start at 15 percent at participating properties indicated by the 'Late Escape Deals' badge and are valid for stays with check-out on or before 3 January 2023. In addition, Booking.com is giving travellers around the world the keys to unlock a new level of additional perks with the introduction of a third tier to its Genius loyalty program. Designed to make every trip a better experience, Booking.com's loyalty program is completely free, easily accessible and membership lasts a lifetime - travellers simply need to create an account to achieve Genius status for life. As Genius members unlock new levels, they get access to larger discounts and more travel rewards that never expire. All travellers have to do is sign into their Booking.com account and look for the Genius logo to identify benefits, discounts and perks.

(IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

--IANS
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Chennai, Nov 11 (IANS) Actor Karan Tacker, who surprised fans and followers with his realistic look as the earnest police officer Amit Lodha in Neeraj Pandey's upcoming cop-drama 'Khakee: The Bihar Chapter', said that he gave up weight training and switched to yoga to get the desired look.

Undergoing an evident physical transformation, the dedicated actor has now revealed the procedure he followed to achieve a more believable transformation.

Acing the part of a super-cop in the early 2000s Bihar, Karan Tacker gained around six-seven kgs to attain a slightly healthier and realistic physique for the character.

Revealing details of the transformation, Karan Tacker shared: "In general, I am a fitness freak. However, for this role, I didn't want to look the dashboard abs, toned muscles kind-of fit guy. I wanted to look as regular as possible. For that, I stopped doing my general weight training and switched to yoga.

"The idea was to attain a more agile and flexible physique, and look as real, relatable and close to the character as possible, against the stiff, body-shot physique."

"I wanted to look like a daal-chawal eating person, because the show is based in early 2000s. At that time, the idea of fitness was very simple and basic; a common man's diet that included daal-chawal, roti-sabzi, hence, I actually shifted to that diet."

"From a 73 kgs really fit guy, I put on almost 6-7kgs to achieve a more regular, real body with a bit of paunch, filled cheeks."

Sharing the idea behind his transformation, Karan Tacker said: "Exercise and diet changes not only lead to difference in physical appearances but also the overall body posture and behaviour."

"For a character, it's not just important how a person looks, but also the mannerisms; from face, walk to how one carries themself. The idea was to feel differently so that the changes in the body are reflected in the acting, to be true to the character. My transformation was not just concerning the aesthetics but also affecting the craft."

Earlier, Karan Tacker played a pivotal role in Neeraj Pandey's Special Ops and the actor marks his second collaboration with the filmmaker for the Bhav Dhulia directorial.

Set in Bihar, 'Khakee: The Bihar Chapter' is a crime drama tracing the world of crime based on true events from the first half of 2000s. Portraying the cop versus gangster tiff, the show features Karan Tacker as the police officer while Avinash Tiwary plays the gangster.

The crime drama is set to streaming on Netflix from November 25.

--IANS
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By IANSlife
New Delhi, Nov 11 (IANSlife) Jodhpur Polo and the Equestrian Institute are all set to host a 4-week long annual Polo Season from December 6th till 31st December 2022 at the Maharaja Gaj Singh Sports Foundation Polo Ground, Air Force Road, Pabupura. Organised by the Jodhpur Polo and Equestrian Institute, Jodhpur, this year's event will see 4 tournaments and 9 one-day demonstration matches. The chief guest of the event will be Maharaja Gaj Singh, the Maharaja of Jodhpur, since 1952.


Honorary Secretary of Jodhpur Polo and Equestrian Institute, Jodhpur, Kr Jangjeet Singh detailed the tournaments: The Umaid Bhawan Palace Cup Polo will be a 4 goals match held from December 6th to December 8th, the H.H. Maharaja of Jodhpur Cup an 8 goals match running December 14th to December 18th. The Rajputana and Central India Cup and the Maharaja of Jodhpur Golden Jubilee Cup are both 10-goal matches, to be held from December 19th to December 24th and December 27th to December 31st, Rajputana, respectively.

A total of eight one-day exhibition matches will also be played in the season, which is as follows:

The British Army Vs Jodhpur Eagles, and Mayo Vs Eton match from 9th – 10th December 2022, respectively
The H.H. Maharaja Hanwant Singh Cycle Polo Exhibition match on 9th Dec 2022
The Mathura Das Mathur Memorial Polo Cup on 11th December 2022
The Maj. Th. Sardar Singh Jasol Memorial Cup, presented by Th. Jaswant Singhji Jasol on 12th December 2022
The Army Commander's Cup, presented by Army Commander, Southern Command, on 23rd December 2022*
The Abu Seir Cup, presented by Farouk Younes, F.I.P. Ambassador of Egypt on 30th Dec 2022
The Hermes Cup, presented by Mons. Patrick Guerrand Hermes, Ex-President Federation on 24th December 2022
The Bhanwar Baiji Lal Vaara Rajye Polo Cup, presented by H.H. Maharaja Gaj Singh II of Jodhpur-Marwar, on 26th December 2022
The Indian Air Force Longewala Polo Cup & Air show, presented by AOC-in-C, SWAC, IAF on 29th December 2022
Welcoming the season, H.H Maharaja Gajsingh II said, "Jodhpur is the Alma Mater of modern Polo in India; it is home to legends both past and in the making. The Season this year shall mark added joy after the Pandemic and we are hoping for a wonderful turnout with some of the world's most renowned players and patrons. From a world-class ground to Marwar's legendary hospitality, culture, and joie de vivre - Jodhpur Polo Season showcases the best of sporting and cultural heritage. It (the Polo Fiesta) is not just an instrument to promote tourism in Jodhpur; it is the friendliness of this place that makes it different from other polo destinations."


(IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

--IANS
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By IANSlife
New Delhi, Nov 7 (IANSlife) The 16th edition of Blenders Pride Glassware Fashion Tour, powered by Fashion Design Council of India, goes beyond couture and reimagines its iconic legacy of 15 years. This edition the Fashion Tour brings alive young, vibrant and evolving expressions of 'Pride & Authenticity' through the lens of a more sustainable, inclusive and diverse world of fashion and lifestyle.


With ace designer Ashish Soni as curator-in-chief and its continued partnership with Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), the Fashion Tour is set to travel through four metro cities of Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Gurugram. In its cutting-edge new avatar, it will present a spectacular collaboration between leading fashion designers and renowned personalities from diverse fields, who are reshaping the lifestyle interests of today's youth.

The Kolkata chapter will be all about 'Pride in Bringing Twists in Traditions' where designers Shantnu & Nikhil will capture the spirit of cricket in their collection, imagined together with Harmanpreet Kaur, the captain of India Women's National Cricket Team.

The Hyderabad chapter will present 'Pride in Sustainable Fashion' where designer Amit Aggarwal will exhibit a blend of modern sustainable techniques in fashion, together with Nuru Karim, one of 100 most influential architects in India,committed to positively impacting the planet.

The Mumbai chapter will highlight 'Pride in Breaking Norms of Conventional Fashion' where designers Falguni Shane Peacock will present a bold street-luxe collection inspired by the rising wave of Indian street-art culture, in collaboration with Dizy, the first and only female graffiti artist in India doing classic graffiti.

The Gurugram chapter will showcase 'Pride in Celebrating Diversity by Defying Labels' where designer Kunal Rawal will unveil a collection that celebrates diversity & inclusivity in modern Indian fashion, complemented by the reverberating vibe of the music of Harrdy Sandhu, one of the most trending music artists of this generation.

The Curtain Raiser unveiled these designers and artists through a stunning new concept called 'The Wireframe'. It's a skeletal that invokes a sense of imagination and drama, and symbolizes the overarching philosophy of this much-awaited fashion extravaganza. From highlighting evolving trends of inclusivity & diversity, to touchpoints of sustainability in fashion, to infusing influences of pop culture through artists & performers, the Curtain Raiser captured it all.

The Curtain Raiser also presented Blenders Pride Glassware 'The Showcase', one of India's leading platforms to discover & nurture aspiring fashion designers, shutterbugs, models and content creators. The winning teams of The Showcase 2021 edition together presented an energetic fashion show on the theme of 'My Planet, My Pride', that became the voice of conscious fashion during The Showcase 2021.

What followed was an inspiring conversation led by Kubbra Sait, celebrity host for the evening, along with Bollywood celebrity & fashion icon Sobhita Dhulipala; designer Ashish Soni; Sunil Sethi, the Chairman of FDCI; and Kartik Mohindra, Chief Marketing Officer of Pernod Ricard India; on the evolving face of the Fashion Tour. These powerful voices in the world of fashion & lifestyle spoke on how the Fashion Tour will capture emerging trends in lifestyle, from the confluence of fashion with sports, architecture, art & music through exciting collaborations, to the intersection of fashion & tech as Fashion Tour launches a first-of-its-kind Metaverse experience.

Another incredible experience that the Fashion Tour will introduce is the 'Style Gallery' called 'This is not a T-shirt', curated by Ashish Soni and FDCI. It will showcase T-shirt outfits designed by over 60 designers & homegrown fashion labels, who have embellished or even deconstructed the basic T-shirt into a design celebrating their authentic interpretation of the four themes of the Fashion Tour. While the gallery will be constructed with undertones of sustainability, using recycled materials during the physical tour; the virtual avatar will be launched with a unique fashion show in the Metaverse.

The Fashion Tour will also launch an industry-first Metaverse platform called 'Blenders Pride Glassware Fashion Tour Park'. It will create an immersive world for young audiences to experience the Fashion Tour like never-before. In what would be India's first fashion tour in Decentraland, the Fashion Tour Park will feature interactive arenas to freely explore, like a virtual fashion show in the Metaverse, a treasure hunt to win invites to the Fashion Tour, and a designers' zone that showcases NFTs of T-shirts designed by the 4 participating designers of the Fashion Tour, among many more.

Speaking on the occasion, Kartik Mohindra, Chief Marketing Officer, Pernod Ricard India, said,"After 15 iconic editions, this year we've reimagined Blenders Pride Glassware Fashion Tour. It enters a new era of fashion & lifestyle, embracing the changing dynamics of the industry and bringing an impressive new format that's more inclusive, diverse and youthful. Our continued partnership with FDCI, yet again brings together the two powerhouses of fashion to make this year's Fashion Tour, a spectacle that the country has not seen before. We're even foraying into the Metaverse and creating a futuristic platform for younger audiences to experience the Fashion Tour in an immersive way. With this, we continue to forge ahead in our journey of celebrating 'Pride' of today's youth with exciting innovations throughout the 16th edition of the Fashion Tour."

Talking about the association, Sunil Sethi, Chairman, FDCI, said, "Fashion Design Council of India is proud to continue its partnership with Blenders Pride Glassware Fashion Tour, both of which are leading names in the fashion & lifestyle industry. This partnership is a fitting way to showcase our drive to reshape and reimagine the evolving face of fashion in India."

As curator-in-chief of Blenders Pride Glassware Fashion Tour 2022, ace designer Ashish Soni said, "For its 16th edition, Blenders Pride Glassware Fashion Tour is truly expanding its horizons and going beyond the ordinary. We've added exciting new elements including designers and artists collaborations, a one-of-its-kind Style Gallery and the Fashion Tour Park metaverse, all of which would bring to live a fashion experience like never before."

(IANSlife can be contacted at IANSlife@gmail.com)

--IANS
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