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Healthy South Indian breakfast options for summer

No matter how many exotic dishes you taste, "Maa ke haath ka khaana" is something that can never be forgotten. Almost every Indian mom has that one special dish that makes the entire family want to eat to their heart's content. On the occasion of <keyword id="23565163" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="World-Food-Day" source="keywords">World Food Day</keyword> today, we connected with a few Indian moms and asked them their special yet nutritious dish that gets their families' attention. Read on to know some healthy yet tasty recipes and try them out yourself! <h2>Archana Singh recommends Rava potato bites</h2> Archana Singh, a homemaker hailing from New Delhi, recommends <keyword id="23570396" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Rava-bites" source="keywords">Rava bites</keyword> for a quick, healthy and delicious snack. All you need is 500 grams rava (a type of flour made from durum wheat), 50 grams cheese and 50 grams mashed potato. You also need some salt, oregano and chilly flakes, as per taste. Now, to make the potato bites, boil some water and put oregano, salt and chilli flakes. Now, lower the flame and start adding rava to this boiled water mixture. Add the rava gradually and keep mixing till it gets thicker and you get a dough. Now, remove this from the flame and let it cool. Once the dough cools down, make small bite-sized balls and add grated cheese and mashed potatoes to them. Take these bites and deep fry them. For a healthier recipe, you can opt for the air fryer. <h2>Meenakshi Sharma recommends home-made uttapam</h2> Who doesn't love the Indian version of pancakes, Uttapam? And they are really easy to make. Meenakshi Sharma, a teacher by profession, rarely gets time in the kitchen but when she does, her favourite go-to healthy snack is uttapam. You’ll need some idli batter prepared the previous day, along with a cup of chopped onions, tomatoes, spinach, and cilantro. You’ll also require half a cup of grated carrots and two tablespoons of vegetable oil. These simple ingredients will come together to create a nutritious and flavourful dish Start by combining the idli batter with the chopped vegetables in a bowl. Then, heat a non-stick pan with a little vegetable oil. Pour a ladle of the batter onto the pan, ensuring it remains thicker than a dosa. You will know that the batter is cooked when you notice little circles appear on it. Once you spot them, flip the uttapam and cook from the other side. Allow the uttapam to cook for about five minutes until the vegetables are slightly crisp. Serve hot, pairing it with coconut or groundnut chutney, or sambar for added flavour. <h2>Sumeeta Bindra recommends this <keyword id="23570397" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Veggie-rice-bowl" source="keywords">veggie rice bowl</keyword></h2> Sumeeta Bindra, another teacher hailing from New Delhi, swears by this veggie rice bowl recipe to satiate your hunger pangs in a quick and healthy way. For this Veggie Rice Bowl recipe, you’ll need one tablespoon of oil, about 6-7 garlic cloves, a bowl of your preferred vegetables, salt, oregano, a tablespoon each of chilli flakes and pizza pasta sauce, 1.5 cups of milk, and a slice of cheese. For the rice, gather another tablespoon of oil, 5-6 garlic cloves, some coriander leaves, and a bowl of boiled rice. Start by sautéing the vegetables with garlic, adding salt, chilli flakes, and cooking for a minute. Then, stir in the pizza pasta sauce, milk, and cheese, letting everything simmer until well combined. Set this aside. For the rice, sauté the chopped garlic and coriander leaves, seasoning with salt and pepper before mixing in the boiled rice. Finally, serve the sautéed veggies and rice together in a bowl for a hearty meal. <h2>Archana Kumar recommends roasted makhana </h2>Archana Kumar, a homemaker from New Delhi, feels nothing is better than some makhanas for those hunger cravings. To prepare roasted makhana, you’ll need two cups of makhana (fox nuts) and one tablespoon of cow ghee. Begin by heating a pan and adding the makhana along with the ghee. Roast them on a medium flame for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure they become crispy and evenly roasted. Once done, sprinkle one teaspoon of Himalayan pink salt over the roasted makhana, and they’re ready to be served as a crunchy, healthy snack.

World Food Day 2024: Healthy yet tasty recipes from Indian moms’ kitchens because home is where the health is

Dosa, a traditional South Indian delicacy, has gained popularity not only for its delightful taste but also for its versatility and health benefits. This thin, crispy crepe made from a fermented batter of rice and urad dal is a staple in many households. However, to boost its nutritional value, there are several healthy dosa options that cater to various dietary preferences. Let's explore these nutrient-packed dosa variations for a wholesome and satisfying breakfast. Quinoa Dosa: Replace a portion of rice in the dosa batter with quinoa to enhance its protein and fiber content. Quinoa dosa not only adds a nutty flavor but also increases the dish's overall nutritional profile, making it an excellent option for those looking to incorporate more whole grains into their diet. Oats Dosa: For a heart-healthy twist, consider incorporating oats into your dosa batter. Oats are rich in soluble fiber, which helps in managing cholesterol levels. The resulting dosa is not only crispy but also a great source of sustained energy, making it an ideal choice for a healthy breakfast. Multigrain Dosa: Combine various grains like ragi (finger millet), bajra (pearl millet), and jowar (sorghum) with the traditional rice and urad dal to create a multigrain dosa. This variation boosts the dosa's nutritional content by introducing a diverse range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, promoting overall health and well-being. Whole Wheat Dosa: Swap out refined rice flour with whole wheat flour to create a dosa that is not only high in fiber but also provides essential nutrients like B vitamins and iron. Whole wheat dosa is an excellent choice for those seeking a healthier alternative without compromising on the authentic taste. Spinach Dosa: Sneak in some leafy greens by adding spinach to your dosa batter. Spinach is a rich source of iron, calcium, and antioxidants. The vibrant green color adds visual appeal, making it an attractive and nutritious option for both adults and children. Moong Dal Dosa: Incorporate moong dal (split yellow lentils) into the dosa batter for a protein-packed breakfast. Moong dal dosa is not only an excellent source of plant-based protein but also easily digestible, making it a perfect choice for those with dietary restrictions or sensitive stomachs. Beetroot Dosa: Add grated beetroot to the dosa batter for a colorful and nutritious twist. Beetroot is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Beetroot dosa not only adds a sweet earthy flavor but also contributes to better blood circulation and overall cardiovascular health. Brown Rice Dosa: Opt for brown rice instead of white rice to increase the dosa's fiber content and provide essential nutrients like magnesium and phosphorus. Brown rice dosa is an ideal choice for those looking to manage blood sugar levels and promote digestive health. Cauliflower Dosa: Grate cauliflower into the dosa batter to add a cruciferous vegetable boost. Cauliflower is rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber. This dosa variation offers a mild, nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch. Chia Seed Dosa: Incorporate chia seeds into the dosa batter to enhance its omega-3 fatty acid content. Chia seeds provide a unique texture and contribute to heart health, making this dosa variation a nutritious and delicious choice for breakfast. Conclusion: Dosa, in its various healthy avatars, offers a delicious way to kick-start your day with a nutrient-packed breakfast. Experiment with these wholesome dosa options to not only satisfy your taste buds but also to ensure that your first meal of the day is a step toward better health. From quinoa to chia seeds, these variations provide a diverse array of nutrients, catering to different dietary needs and preferences. Enjoy a guilt-free and nutritious breakfast with these healthy dosa options. Note: The article is based on content generated by AI models like Bard and Chatgpt. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/science/health/food/webstories/10-easy-diwali-sweets-that-you-can-prepare-at-home/slidelist/105036823.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink">10 easy Diwali sweets that you can prepare at home</a>

Healthy dosa options for a nutrient-packed breakfast

The phrase "breakfast is the most important meal of the day" holds true across cultures, and in India, this sentiment is celebrated through a rich tapestry of diverse and wholesome <keyword id="3345755" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="morning-foods" source="Orion">morning foods</keyword>. Indian cuisine boasts a plethora of superfoods that not only tantalize your taste buds but also nourish your body, providing the perfect start to a healthy morning. In this article, we'll explore the top <keyword id="4323393" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="indian-superfoods" source="Orion">Indian superfoods</keyword> that can help you kickstart your day with vigour and vitality. Oats: The Versatile Breakfast Option Oats have become a staple in Indian households for a good reason. They are loaded with fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full. Oats are also known to help lower cholesterol levels and regulate blood sugar. Whether you prefer oatmeal, overnight oats, or even savory oats with vegetables, this versatile superfood can be customized to suit your taste. Daliya (Broken Wheat): The Nutrient-Rich Choice Daliya, or broken wheat, is a popular choice for a hearty and healthy breakfast. It's an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Daliya is known to aid in weight management, promote digestive health, and boost energy levels. A warm bowl of sweet or savory daliya can set the tone for a productive day. Indian Millets: The Forgotten Grains Indian millets like foxtail millet (kangni), finger millet (ragi), and pearl millet (bajra) are regaining popularity as healthy breakfast options. They are gluten-free, rich in fiber, and packed with essential nutrients. Ragi, for instance, is an excellent source of calcium, making it a great choice for bone health. Enjoy millets as porridge, upma, or dosas for a nourishing morning meal. Idli and Dosa: Fermented Goodness Idli and dosa, quintessential South Indian dishes, are made from fermented rice and lentil batter. Fermentation not only enhances the nutritional value but also aids digestion. These dishes are low in fat and an excellent source of protein. Pair them with coconut chutney and sambar for a balanced and wholesome breakfast. Poha: The Flattened Rice Delight Poha, or flattened rice, is a beloved breakfast option in many Indian households. It's light, easy to digest, and a good source of carbohydrates. Poha is often cooked with peanuts, turmeric, and curry leaves, making it a flavorful and nutritious choice to start your day. Chia Seeds: The Tiny Powerhouses Chia seeds have gained popularity in India for their health benefits. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. Chia seeds can be soaked in milk or yogurt to make a delicious and filling pudding. They help in weight management, reduce the risk of heart diseases, and improve digestion. Sprouts: The Nutrient Bombs Sprouted legumes like mung beans and chickpeas are a powerhouse of nutrients. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein. Sprouts can be used to make salads, chaats, or stir-fries. They are known to boost metabolism, aid in weight loss, and improve overall health. Indian Herbs and Spices: The Flavorful Boosters Indian cuisine is known for its use of herbs and spices, many of which offer health benefits. Turmeric, for instance, has anti-inflammatory properties and can be added to warm milk for a soothing golden milk. Cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar levels and can be sprinkled on your morning oats or yogurt. Fresh coriander and mint leaves provide a refreshing burst of flavor while aiding digestion. Ghee: The Clarified Butter Ghee, or clarified butter, is a staple in Indian cooking and is often used as a cooking medium or for drizzling over dishes. Contrary to popular belief, ghee is a healthy fat. It contains butyric acid, which supports gut health and improves digestion. A spoonful of ghee with your morning meal can provide energy and nourishment. Fresh Fruits: The Natural Sweetness Fresh fruits like bananas, apples, papayas, and seasonal berries are abundant in India. They are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. A bowl of fresh fruit salad or a smoothie with yogurt and fruit can provide a burst of natural sweetness and essential nutrients. Conclusion: The Indian breakfast table is a treasure trove of superfoods that can kickstart your day on a healthy note. From oats and millets to fermented dishes like idli and dosa, Indian cuisine offers a wide variety of options to suit your taste and dietary preferences. These superfoods are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, fiber, and health-boosting properties. By incorporating these morning superfoods into your daily routine, you can nourish your body, improve your overall health, and set the stage for a productive and energetic day ahead. Note: The article is based on content generated by AI models like Bard and Chatgpt. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/science/health/food/protein-rich-indian-dishes/articleshow/104827689.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink">Protein-rich Indian dishes: Fuel Your health and palate</a>

Indian superfoods for a healthy morning

India, a land renowned for its culinary tapestry, offers an array of vibrant and flavorful vegetarian dishes that tantalize taste buds and celebrate the country's rich cultural diversity. From aromatic spices to regional specialties, here are ten exquisite <keyword id="19796254" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="vegetarian-lunch-options" source="Orion">vegetarian lunch options</keyword> that showcase India's gastronomic heritage. Paneer Tikka Masala: Hailing from North India, this dish features succulent cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices, grilled to perfection, and then simmered in a rich tomato-based gravy. The smoky flavors paired with the creamy sauce make it a beloved choice for lunch. Chole Bhature: A popular indulgence from Punjab, chole (spiced chickpeas) served with bhature (fluffy fried bread) is a savory delight. The spicy chickpea curry, infused with a melange of spices, coupled with the airy bhature, creates a harmonious and filling meal. Masala Dosa: Hailing from the southern state of Karnataka, this iconic dish is a thin, crispy rice and lentil crepe filled with a spicy potato mixture. Served with coconut chutney and sambar (a lentil-based vegetable stew), the dosa is a flavorful and satisfying lunch option. Rajma Chawal: A staple in many North Indian households, this comforting meal consists of kidney beans cooked in a thick gravy of tomatoes and spices, served alongside steamed basmati rice. Its simplicity and hearty flavors make it a beloved lunchtime favorite. Baingan Bharta: Celebrating the smoky goodness of roasted eggplant, this dish originates from Punjab and Uttar Pradesh. Roasted eggplant is mashed and cooked with tomatoes, onions, and aromatic spices, creating a dish that's both wholesome and flavorsome. Aloo Paratha: A quintessential North Indian delight, aloo paratha is a whole wheat flatbread stuffed with a spiced mashed potato filling. Served with a dollop of fresh butter, yogurt, or pickles, it's a fulfilling and satiating lunch option. Palak Paneer: A North Indian classic, this dish combines velvety spinach (palak) cooked with paneer in a luscious gravy infused with spices. Its vibrant green hue and creamy texture make it a nutritious and delightful lunch choice. Bisi Bele Bath: Originating from Karnataka, this one-pot meal is a medley of rice, lentils, assorted vegetables, and a unique blend of spices. Topped with a generous dollop of ghee (clarified butter), it's a wholesome and aromatic dish. Dhokla: A popular snack from Gujarat, dhokla often makes its way to lunch menus. These steamed fermented cakes made from gram flour are light, spongy, and served with a zesty tempering of mustard seeds and curry leaves, offering a refreshing lunch option. Kadhi Chawal: A comfort food from the heartland of India, kadhi—a savory yogurt-based curry—is paired with steamed rice. The tangy and creamy curry, flavored with spices and tempered with aromatic tadka, makes for a soul-satisfying meal. These vegetarian <keyword id="19113533" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Lunch-options" source="Orion">lunch options</keyword> represent just a fraction of India's diverse culinary landscape. The beauty lies not only in their flavors but also in the stories they tell—of traditions, regional influences, and culinary expertise passed down through generations. Whether you're exploring street-side stalls or savoring homemade delicacies, these dishes invite you on a culinary journey through India's vibrant and enchanting flavors. Note: The article is based on content generated by AI models like Bard and Chatgpt. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/science/health/food/article/10-vegetable-soups-to-savor-this-winter/articleshow/105934677.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">10 Vegetable soups to savor this winter</a>

Exploring India's culinary delights: 10 Best vegetarian lunch options

Choosing a <keyword id="12203053" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="dosa-tawa" source="Orion">dosa tawa</keyword> with the right diameter and curvature makes you cook a perfect and crispy dosa. The material used helps you cook evenly with uniform heating. For the convenient spreading of the batter, it comes with a flat surface. While choosing the dosa tawa, one must look into all its specifications. We have shortlisted some of the <keyword id="12203054" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="best-dosa-tawa" source="Orion">best dosa tawa</keyword> options available from Amazon. <bulletContentEmbed name="B07NT7XV8J" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B07NT7XV8J_head"><div type="image" title="Flat Surface" msid="86612308" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B07NT7XV8J</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B07NT7XV8J_body"><bulletContentRow name="B07NT7XV8J_8964454486243148"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">Hawkins Futura Non Stick Dosa Tawa</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">Designed with the right curvature and thickness, this dosa tawa from Hawkins makes you cook conveniently. Its flat surface makes it easy to spread the batter and the curve ensures no oil spillage. Its strong riveted handle ensures stability for a wobble-free experience. The non-stick material makes it convenient to take off the dosa from the tava. It comes with a wooden spatula and a nylon scrubber.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B07NT7XV8J_9647043709796330"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">The flat surface ensures easy spreading of the batter.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed> <bulletContentEmbed name="B00QWQ0TCU" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B00QWQ0TCU_head"><div type="image" title="Metallic Finish" msid="86612347" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B00QWQ0TCU</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B00QWQ0TCU_body"><bulletContentRow name="B00QWQ0TCU_3636235429152978"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">Prestige Omega Deluxe Granite Dosa Tawa</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">With a 5-layer coating, this dosa tawa from Prestige is made using German Technology and is said to last longer. To make it look clean and new, it features a two-layer metallic finish The scratch-resistant granite finish coating makes it last longer. To ensure effortless cooking, it is made from non-stick material. It is metal spoon friendly and induction safe.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B00QWQ0TCU_9317799792192092"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">The non-stick material makes it convenient to cook.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed> <bulletContentEmbed name="B00F2F6KWK" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B00F2F6KWK_head"><div type="image" title="Convenient Cooking" msid="86612375" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B00F2F6KWK</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B00F2F6KWK_body"><bulletContentRow name="B00F2F6KWK_2613630525544738"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">Pigeon by Stovekraft Special Non-Stick Aluminium Flat Tawa</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">This non-stick flat tawa from Pigeon comes with a strong and sturdy handle for comfortable holding. For convenient cooking, it offers a 3-layer non-stick coating. The material used makes it dishwasher safe. It comes with a warranty of 1 year.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B00F2F6KWK_5825077975711990"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">It is safe to be washed in the dishwasher.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed> <bulletContentEmbed name="B01M0YZBMM" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B01M0YZBMM_head"><div type="image" title="Dishwasher Friendly" msid="86612390" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B01M0YZBMM</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B01M0YZBMM_body"><bulletContentRow name="B01M0YZBMM_5799416059186932"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">Rock Tawa Dosa Tawa</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">Cook a perfect, crispy dosa with this flat surface dosa tawa from Rock tawa. With a thickness of 4.2mm and 12-inch diameter, it is gas, induction and dishwasher friendly. It helps to cut down oil and butter consumption. The pre-seasoned cast iron material makes it easy to clean and maintain.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B01M0YZBMM_1982778593548599"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">It makes you eat healthy with less oil and butter consumption.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed> <bulletContentEmbed name="B07YQNKH2Q" columns="1"><bulletContentHeading name="B07YQNKH2Q_head"><div type="image" title="Non-Stick" msid="86612428" hostid="261"></div></columnHeadThumb>B07YQNKH2Q</columnHeadTitle></columnHead></bulletContentHeading><bulleteContentBody name="B07YQNKH2Q_body"><bulletContentRow name="B07YQNKH2Q_5798322330326333"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1">Cello Non Stick Dosa Tawa Induction Base with Detachable Handle</bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">Made from pre-grade aluminium, this dosa tawa from Cello makes you cook evenly. The non-stick material ensures cooking with less amount of oil. The ergonomically designed handle makes it convenient to hold and stays cool even while cooking. It is compatible with both gas stoves and induction.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow><bulletContentRow name="B07YQNKH2Q_7437112867475323"><bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowHead col="1"></bulletContentRowHead></bulletContentRowHeading><bulletContentRowBody><bulletContentRowCell col="1">The handle stays cool even while cooking.</bulletContentRowCell></bulletContentRowBody></bulletContentRow></bulleteContentBody></bulletContentEmbed>

Best dosa tawa in India

<ul><li>Restaurant Bai Veetu Kalyanam (The <keyword id="16764125" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="bvk" source="Orion">BVK</keyword>) launched a manless takeaway for <keyword id="41887" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Biryani" source="Orion">biryani</keyword> in <keyword id="12864" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="chennai" source="Orion">Chennai</keyword>, where customers can order a biryani through a kiosk. </li><li>The BVK is a Chennai-based restaurant launched in 2020. </li><li>Last year, Bengaluru-based startup Freshot introduced an “idli bot” — a vending machine dispensing piping hot idlis with chutney. </li></ul>Many of us have used an ATM, at one point or another, to extract some quick cash. But imagine if you could use a vending machine to extract a meal and not packaged goods like chips, chocolate, cold drinks or water, but an actual, hot meal? Well, that’s what Chennai-based restaurant Bai Veetu Kalyanam (The BVK) is doing with manless takeaways for biryani. On February 8, The BVK launched what it claims to be a “first-of-its-kind, unique &amp; state-of-the-art unmanned takeaway ordering experience”. The restaurant launched four kiosks at an outlet in Kolathur, Chennai. The kiosks have a 32-inch display touchpad screen that customers can use to place an order. The payment can be made through a card or UPI (using a QR code). Once the order is placed, a countdown timer indicates the time it will take for the meal to be prepared. Once the time is up, customers can collect their “freshly packed” order from a pop-out window. As per the restaurant’s Instagram page, on average, a biryani order is ready in four minutes. The price starts at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CphMVJKohoX/">₹199</a> for a mini chicken pack. As per food blogger <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CphMVJKohoX/">Nisha who visited the outlet</a>, “The biryani came in a metal copper container, sealed tight and was very hot! It was properly cooked and the flavour was so good and authentic.” Currently, the restaurant has just one manless outlet with four kiosks. It plans to open 12 more in Chennai, before launching pan-India. Customers can also select accompaniments with biryani, like dessert, beverages, etc. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Tracing the history of BVK" comment="subhead2" text="Tracing the history of BVK">Tracing the history of BVK</cmsannotation> The BVK was launched in 2020 by Faheem S. As per <a href="https://www.thehindu.com/brandhub/chennai-based-food-startupbvk-biryani-launches-99-minutes-delivery-in-eco-friendlyreusable-tin-containers/article65087806.ece#:~:text=Faheem%20S%20(%20Founder%20%26%20CEO%20),the%20quality%20of%20their%20dishes.">The Hindu</a>, the restaurant aims to recreate the experience of a Muslim wedding. It takes care to prepare meals using fresh meat, ensuring that “the time from slaughtering to cooking is less than 4 hours, which keeps the meat tender, fresh and healthy.” “We use daily cut meats, daily produce vegetables, classic Basmati rice and cooked in traditional coal and firewood to bring the taste of biryani the way it was meant to be made,” states the company on its website. Apart from four types of biryani (chicken, egg, mutton and vegetable), the BVK also offers dishes like a chicken roast, idiyappam, idli, dosa, etc. as well as desserts like bread halwa, gulab jamun, payasam and beverages like coconut milk, cold drinks, etc. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Other experiments in automated food service" comment="subhead2" text="Other experiments in automated food service">Other experiments in automated food service</cmsannotation> The BVK may be the first restaurant serving biryani through manless takeaways but they’re certainly not the first to venture into automated food service for hot meals. Last year in October Bengaluru-based start-up Freshot Robotics set up the world’s first <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSwuchF91I8&amp;ab_channel=IndiaAheadNews">“idli bot” </a>— a vending machine that dispensed piping hot idlis. As per <a href="https://www.indiatimes.com/trending/social-relevance/atm-in-bengaluru-serves-idlis-582156.html">reports</a>, the food was available in just 55 seconds. The machine had the capacity to dispense 72 idlis in just 12 minutes. It also dispensed chutney with idli. Similarly, in <a href="https://www.thrillist.com/news/new-york/worlds-first-robot-burger-chef-vending-machine-jersey-city">March 2022</a>, RoboBurger was installed in Jersey City in the USA. RoboBurger is an artificially intelligent, self-operating system that builds a burger from scratch in just six minutes. And in December 2022, fast food chain McDonald’s <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2022/dec/23/mcdonalds-automated-workers-fort-worth-texas">opened </a>their first, mostly automated store in Texas, USA that used touchscreens and conveyor belts to deliver food — limiting human interaction. Long before burgers and idlis though, a man from Gujarat <a href="https://www.gadgets360.com/others/features/auto-pani-puri-dispensing-machine-social-media-viral-bharat-prajapati-2259203">invented </a>a panipuri or golgappa vending machine in 2020 during the pandemic. And he made it from leftover scraps! As per Gadgets360, Bharat Prajapati, who was 33 at the time, created a machine that dispenses golgappas. Prajapati runs a mobile and electronics repair shop in Raviyana village in the state. Apart from these ventures, Noida-based startup Daalchini is also <a href="https://in.linkedin.com/company/daalchini">providing </a>home-cooked food, along with snacks and healthy bars, etc. through its network of automatic vending machines across <a href="https://techcrunch.com/2022/09/07/daalchini-series-a-4-million-usd-funding-smart-vending-machines-india/?guccounter=1&amp;guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&amp;guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAIEqG4ol0n6HJIq1C2xkwEeKGCvQPWkytEMXW9DgRmzH7XMV8L4luW_sL41qqIwizKXU4d6_-KdAE8eidDEcpsbiYfF2-lA-sOf2Vn9WxamhRmqzBYtTFCmuk9VpBpwD6El0gD06mreob9RAnrSAMk78jehxg2haAivSmwTUD7Dj">11 states and 23 </a>Indian cities including Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Pune, and Bangalore. In September 2022, the startup raised $4 million. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/personal-finance/news/reits-and-invits-become-attractive-after-major-taxation-overhang-removed/articleshow/99058405.cms">REITs and InvITs become attractive after major taxation overhang removed</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/personal-finance/news/how-to-check-whether-your-pan-and-aadhaar-is-link-status/articleshow/99057008.cms">You need to link your PAN with Aadhaar by March 31: All you need to know</a>

India now has a vending machine for Biryani. Here’s everything to know about it

<ul><li><keyword id="6358096" type="DEFINITION" weightage="20" keywordseo="snapchat">Snapchat</keyword> completes two years of its first office in India.</li><li>It has so far witnessed a daily user base growth of 100% for the past 5 quarters.</li><li>Snapchat’s parent company Snap Inc. plans to expand the app’s presence in India with increased hiring, content partnerships and hyperlocal experiences.</li></ul>Snapchat’s parent company Snap Inc. launched its first office in India in August 2019. It has so far reported an upward trajectory in terms of user base in India, a market which its chief executive Evan Spiegel once <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/snapchat-ratings-drop-to-one-star-on-app-store-after-evan-spiegels-poor-countries-like-india-comment/articleshow/58206334.cms">reportedly said “poor” for Snapchat</a>. In its recent June quarter earnings report, Snap <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/news/snapchats-records-highest-growth-in-users-since-going-public-in-2017/articleshow/84670141.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink">reported </a>a global revenue of $982 million, more than double as compared to the previous year. Snapchat also registered its highest user growth to 293 million daily active users. Earlier this year, Snapchat revealed it has crossed 60 million users in India. “We’re experiencing more than 150% growth in daily active users over the last year and consistently we are in triple-digit growth rate five quarters in a row,” Nana Murugesan, managing director of International markets at Snap Inc. told Business Insider India in an interview. Murugesan did not reveal the current statistics for Snapchat’s user base in India, but added that the company had a “healthy growth” in the country and that India is a “significant part” of their global community. The company is also expanding its team in India to focus on local augmented reality (AR), TikTok-rival Spotlight, partnerships, market development, sales and creative strategy. “What you’re going to see is a significant doubling down of our commitment to India, whether it’s on the teams, on the community, on the partnership, we’re very pleased with our overall India story,” Murugesan said. Hyperlocal experiences Snapchat’s key focus in India is to create hyperlocal and culturally relevant experiences for users, according to Murugesan. It launched the third landmarker lens in India, which can be experienced at India Gate in New Delhi. Snapchat users who are nearby India Gate will be notified to point their camera at it, and the monument will be embellished with the tricolour. Snapchat’s landmarker lens lets users create AR experiences at select popular locations like the Buckingham Palace in London and the Eiffel Tower in Paris. In India there are three Snapchat landmarker lenses including the newly launched one at India Gate, and Gateway of India in Mumbai and Taj Mahal in Agra. The company also has dedicated AR lenses for different religious and cultural festivals in India. It also launched the language learning lens that aims to make learning Bengali, Hindi, Kannada, Marathi, Punjabi, and Telugu easier for users. Snapchat’s language learning lens uses AR and machine learning (ML) to translate objects in real-time in different languages. The app is also available in nine Indian languages -- Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Punjabi, Bengali, Kannada, Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu. Partnerships Adding to the company’s strategy of reaching every smartphone user in India, one focus area for Snapchat is partnerships. “Our strategy is to make Snapchat accessible across all smartphones out there,” Murugesan said. Earlier this year, Snapchat partnered with Sharechat to integrate Snap’s camera kit into the startup’s short video platform, Moj. There are 150 Snapchat lenses available on Moj so far. “We shared our augmented reality technology with Sharechat’s Moj, they integrated our technology into their camera. It’s been exciting to see all the momentum out of that. From our partner’s perspective, it’s been a very fruitful and exciting journey as we share Snap’s camera kit,” Murugesan said. A more recent partnership for Snapchat was with Google and Reliance Jio for JioPhone Next. The low-cost 4G smartphone jointly developed by Google and Jio will come with Snapchat lenses integrated into its camera. “What you’re going to see here is JioPhone Next, the camera that will integrate Snapchat’s augmented reality lenses, which will be highly customised for local Indian users. So the people can enjoy lenses which are at the core of Snapchat, in a very native way without having to do anything. That’s going to be a very interesting way for us to engage with a very large part of the Indian demographic,” Murugesan said. This partnership is being looked at as a way for Snapchat to tap into a wider demographic of early 4G smartphone users or those who upgrade from feature phones to 4G smartphones. Murugesan highlighted the fact that Snapchat’s core feature is AR which makes the app “pretty sophisticated” so the company needs to make sure that it works on just about any device and on any network condition. TikTok-rival ‘Spotlight’ Snap’s seriousness for the Indian market can be seen with the company bringing almost every new feature and product here. Earlier this year, it launched <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/advertising/ad-tech/news/spotlight-snapchats-answer-to-tiktok-and-instagram-reels-launched-in-india/articleshow/81532302.cms">‘Spotlight’</a>, its TikTok-rival, in India. Murgesan said that the company has been seeing a “healthy adoption of Spotlight” in India. Without giving details, he added that the $1 million a day fund has really helped with the adoption of Spotlight. Snap announced it will pay creators up to $1 million a day for using Spotlight based on the number of views the videos get. At Snap’s partner summit in May this year, the company said it paid creators over $130 million globally. It also made changes to the fund saying that creators will now be paid millions per month. “We have seen incredible creativity and growth on Spotlight this year, including a tripling of daily submissions quarter-over-quarter and an all-time high in the daily number of creators posting to Spotlight. We will continue to pay creators millions per month to anyone who makes the top Spotlight Snaps, which is primarily based on engagement and relative performance of Snaps,” Murugesan said. Content partnerships Another area Snapchat has focused on is content partnerships. It has so far partnered with 60 local channels from 32 different publishing partners. Content of different genres ranging from news to Bollywood, beauty, comedy, and art are displayed in the app’s Discover section. It also partnered with comedian Vir Das for a new comedy series ‘VirDas -The Most Epic Max Show’. Another <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/advertising/ad-tech/news/snapchat-launches-creator-shows-a-series-with-3-5-minutes-long-episodes-features-vir-das-and-anushka-sen-in-its-first-original/articleshow/83603487.cms">creator show</a> it launched was with Indian television actress Ansuhka Sen for a cooking show called “What’s On My Plate”. Snapchat also launched its first non-English Snap Original show ‘Phone Swap India’ which turned out to be a huge hit in India, according to Muregesan who credits the show’s unique concept as the reason behind it. Phone Swap is a reality dating show where the participants have to go through each other’s phones and decide whether they want to go on another date. This show was especially popular with India’s Gen-Z, which is also Snapchat’s core user group. “You will see us do more of these types of things. It was the first time we’ve tried something like this so you’ll probably see us doubling down on these kinds of concepts,” Murugesan added. In addition to Spotlight and content partnerships, Snapchat also launched customised games for users in India. It partnered with MoonFrog Labs to launch a custom version of Ludo Club, and it also made a localised game concept called “Dosa Dash” that is based on one of its popular games, ‘Ready Chef Go’. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/news/snapchats-records-highest-growth-in-users-since-going-public-in-2017/articleshow/84670141.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink">Snapchat records highest growth in users since going public in 2017</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/advertising/ad-tech/news/snapchat-launches-creator-shows-a-series-with-3-5-minutes-long-episodes-features-vir-das-and-anushka-sen-in-its-first-original/articleshow/83603487.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink">Snapchat launches Creator Shows, a series with 3-5 minutes long episodes; features Vir Das and Anushka Sen in its first original</a>

Snapchat to ‘double down’ on expansion in India as it witnesses over 150% growth in daily active users

Swiggy is a Bangalore-based food delivery startup that collated data from eight cities (Bangalore, <keyword id="12864" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Chennai">Chennai</keyword>, Hyderabad, <keyword id="66" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Delhi">Delhi</keyword> &amp; NCR, <keyword id="2094" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Pune">Pune</keyword>, <keyword id="6358070" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Mumbai">Mumbai</keyword> and <keyword id="6354925" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Kolkata">Kolkata</keyword>) where it operates, and tracked top five cuisines, main course items, snacks, and desserts across India to find out what the Indian cities are ordering in. 
 
<a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/ubereats-is-coming-to-india-this-year/articleshow/56733641.cms">ALSO READ: Guess what’s cooking? UberEATS is coming to India this year!</a> 
 
It has partnered with over 12,000 restaurants across these locations. 
 
These are the highlights: 
 
• Main course: the Indian cuisine--in its various north and south avatars--emerged more popular than its American and Chinese competitors. 
 
Most popular non-vegetarian main course item was chicken biryani, except in Delhi-NCR where top six dishes were dal makhani-naan, burgers, chole bhature, egg rolls, masala dosa and pav bhaji. 
 
<a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/the-jaipur-lit-fest-tried-to-be-cashless-and-failed/articleshow/56738111.cms">ALSO READ: The Jaipur Lit Fest tried to be completely cashless and failed. Here's what happened.</a> 
 
• Biryani capital, Hyderabad, made up for Delhi’s underwhelming response by ordering biryani even during snack time--between lunch and dinner--when orders in other cities gravitated toward street food and burgers. 
 
• Regional cuisines held sway in their geographies and in diametrically opposite locations. For example Delhi-NCR, apart from ordering chole bhature, loved to order masala dosa. 
 
<a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/this-iot-device-will-help-you-save-money-and-reduce-your-water-consumption/articleshow/56734647.cms">ALSO READ: This IoT device will help you save money and reduce your water consumption</a> 
 
Similarly, Chennai showed a healthy appetite for north Indian delicacies. Mumbai remained truly cosmopolitan by ordering from every cuisine, and Chinese dishes found favor mostly in Delhi-NCR and Kolkata. 
 
• Most price-conscious city - Price-wise, Pune came out as the most price-conscious city due to its large student population. Rest of the locations did not seem to see the price as a barrier to getting good food home delivered instantly. 
 
Image credits: <keyword id="310615" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Le">Le</keyword> Casse Croute

What are people eating in top eight Indian cities, according to Swiggy

<ul><li>Hear from India’s most-followed Facebook Creator, Sanjyot Keer, about starting your own page in today’s highly cluttered market.</li><li>He shares with us a few monetization avenues that content creators can explore, arranging the right equipment, when to find a publicist in your content creation journey, standing out in the clutter and much more.</li></ul>With each passing day, things are getting a little more challenging for our country. We are back at home and a lot of people are turning to cooking and baking again. Some of us who are averse to cooking, have been forced to take a serious stab at it. In this one year, a few have even mastered the art and started their own YouTube channels to share their experience and knowledge with others. So if you are looking to get more out of your Food YouTube channel or Facebook page of any kind, this episode of Influencer Adda is just for you. To find out how budding content creators can supplement their income, arrange the right equipment, set themselves apart in a pool full of creators, we reached out to Sanjyot Keer, Chef, Owner of Your Food Lab and Facebook Content Creator. He told us how he got where he is today and how you can too. <div type="Video" msid="82457252" hostid="261" title="Chef and Content Creator Sanjyot Keer shares everything you need to know about becoming a content creator" dataSource="BUSINESSINSIDER" thumbUrl="https://denmark.timesinternet.in/cmslite/api/app/images.jpg?msid=82457252"></div> Known for bringing his uniqueness to Indian cuisine, Keer’s diverse recipes are lip-smacking yet healthy. He has 5 million followers on Facebook, 116k followers on Instagram and 2.16 million subscribers on YouTube today. Keer found his love for cooking when he was 12. He saw an artist at work at a pav bhaji stall and wanted to recreate the magic. Thus began his culinary love story. He created a fusion of Pav Bhaji Bruschetta, which was his first-ever creation. His first recipe on Facebook was another fusion, Pizza Dosa, which garnered 10,000 views in a day in 2016 and he only had 335 friends on Facebook then. His third video went viral and got 1.3 million views in four days. In a month's time, he had a lakh followers on Facebook. “Your Food Lab started at one of the lowest phases of my life. I wasn’t cooking. I was working at my dad’s factory and that is when I decided to start creating content. I dedicated my weekends to content creation. I didn’t have the money to buy or rent out equipment. So I used my phone and Canon 550D. I made DIY ceiling lights and started shooting on my dining table,” recalls Keer. Today, Keer has a team of five people who help him out in content production. He also has a househelp and an external PR team. Sharing a few factors that have helped Keer hit the 5 million mark, he says, “A lot of people relate to my recipes, which are one of a kind, and they like what I cook in my kitchen. The kind of ingredients and equipment I use is something that you would find in your kitchen. So all YFL recipes can be made at home, you won’t need any kind of professional equipment for it. Secondly, consistency has surely played a role. I started by uploading one recipe a day for three-four years and that helped YFL grow really fast. My production quality has skyrocketed now because I have constantly invested what I earn into YFL in terms of building a team, renting a studio space, which has paid off.” Keer upgraded his equipment once he started working with brands. His first brand was an FMCG Oil brand, Fortune Sunflower Oil. He ended up making 100 videos for them. Now he is eyeing to work with a lifestyle brand or an automobile brand, and to be a part of a food-travel show. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Monetisation avenues" text="Monetisation avenues">Monetisation avenues</cmsannotation> While becoming an influencer seems glamorous, it takes a lot of time, requires patience and hardwork before you actually get to start monetising your content. “No doubt money is important to be able to sustain but initially, you should just focus on your content. When I started out, Facebook didn’t have in-stream ads and I was completely dependent on branded associations. Brand collaborations are always going to be the bigger chunk of money that comes in for you as a content creator and on Facebook, with branded content tools, you can easily work with any brand. It is very transparent now. When you work with a brand, Facebook doesn’t charge you for that. You can directly work with the brand, you just need to declare on the platform. It is similar on the other platforms too. In-stream ads, which were added 2 years ago, are a boon for creators because you can upload your regular content and those will also earn money for you,” shares Keer. Apart from that, a content creator can also explore merchandising, consultancy and workshops. YFL and Keer earn their lion’s share from in-stream ads and product shoots. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Finding the right publicist" text="Finding the right publicist">Finding the right publicist</cmsannotation> As a content creator, it is important to be in media’s good books or this interview with Keer wouldn’t have happened. So, if you find the right publicist, at the right time, they can really help you improve your brand presence in media, which will eventually land you brand deals. Brands usually look for creators who have a huge following on social media platforms and are active on the media front. Keer onboarded a PR agency, Monk-E, after 4 years of content creation. On when to find a publicist, Keer advises, “It depends on the creator. I was doing everything by myself for the first four years because I wanted to learn it first-hand. I wanted to understand the brand's expectations, goals and negotiate deals. And when a PR agency comes to you with a problem at a later stage, you’ll be able to understand and be more empathetic. It got overwhelming after a point and I was swamped, that’s when I hired an agency. It is not a luxury per se to get an agency, but it is more about getting things done on time and in an appropriate manner at a certain stage of content creation. If you are getting a good deal at your beginning stage, go for it but I would suggest that you wait and learn the ropes of the game.” <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Tips for beginners" text="Tips for beginners">Tips for beginners</cmsannotation> The only secret behind Keer’s growth trajectory is that he believed in his ‘stupid idea’, as he calls it. He was consistent and he did not let other people’s opinions on content creation influence his decision. So, his advice to budding content creators is to never kill your stupid idea. “I started off in a very low phase of my life and I never thought that I would make it this far. At that time, I told a lot of people that I want to start creating content, people pulled me down and said it is stupid to share videos on Facebook -- it is just for connectivity. I still gave it a try and it worked. I hear a lot of parents say “Hotel management koun karta hai, hum Bawarchi thodi na hai” and people just kill their idea at a very young stage. Just bring your idea into existence and if you are hardworking enough, you will be the next Sanjyot Keer or you would even do better than me. So whatever it is that you want to do, do it today!” Before wrapping up, Keer had another message to give to fellow content creators and influencers. “Please help people around you. To all my influencer friends, please reach out to your followers. This is the time we should use our influence at its best. Be kind and take care of yourselves.”

Chef and Content Creator Sanjyot Keer shares everything you need to know about becoming a content creator

<ul><li>Despite having zero Covid-19 cases, people here continue to take precautions like wearing masks.</li><li><keyword id="1802935" type="LOCATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="Havelock-Island">Havelock Island</keyword> not only offers some stunning beaches, but it also has some of the top diving destinations in the country.</li><li>If you are hankering for some serious digital detox there is no better place than Havelock - there is limited to zero connectivity on the island.</li></ul> Earlier this month, Dr. Niveditha Vasireddy, a psychiatrist from Visakhapatnam, travelled to the <keyword id="54020" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Andaman-and-Nicobar-Islands">Andaman and Nicobar Islands</keyword>. The archipelago, of around 300 islands in the Indian Ocean, is a Union Territory of India, which if you look at the map seems closer to Thailand and Myanmar than to India. She tells Business Insider, not able to control her excitement, how she has never imagined experiencing such clean and untouched white sandy beaches in India. "I mean, you can expect such an experience in countries like the Philippines, but in India... my mind was blown,” she says. <div type="image" title="Elephant beach, Havelock" msid="81127084" hostid="261"></div> The picturesque white sandy beaches of the <keyword id="162996" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Andaman-Islands">Andaman Islands</keyword> are not considered by most as an option for a beach vacation. And perhaps it is for the best, because as is the case with most popular tourist destinations, the more touristy they become, the more we expose the location to environmental risks. But if responsible tourism is your jam, and you do not mind paying a little more money for a truly magical experience, then the Andaman Islands is the place to visit. Dr. Vasireddy, along with a few friends, decided to ditch the idea of vacationing in Goa and chose a place where they can get away from it all — plus, there was the added advantage of the location being COVID-free. In fact, it was the first place in India with zero<a href="https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/andaman-and-nicobar-islands-indias-first-to-be-covid-free/articleshow/80657352.cms"> active cases</a> as of 03 February 2021. Regardless of the fact, she was pleasantly surprised that people on the Island continue to take safety very seriously and said all the locals were wearing face masks. In case you forget to wear yours, they will politely inform you that if you don't, you will get 'challand’ (a challan). Please note that it is mandatory to present an RTPCR Covid negative test at <keyword id="107932" type="CITY" weightage="20" keywordseo="PORT-BLAIR">Port Blair</keyword>. The authorities validate the test against the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) website. Only once the validity is confirmed do the officials stamp the document, and without this stamped paper, you will not be allowed to take the ferry to any of the Islands. Flights from all major cities of the country, including New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Hyderabad and Kochi, land at the capital Port Blair. <div type="image" title="Havelock Island" msid="81128095" hostid="261"></div> HAVELOCK ISLAND The island not only offers some stunning beaches, but it also has some of the top diving destinations in the country. It is an excellent place to learn deep-sea diving so that you can explore the underwater marvels. Havelock Island is one of the few places where inexperienced divers can try out a single dive instead of signing up for a full course. The water is teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, stingrays and much more. It also has a healthy population of colourful live corals. The best part is that you don't need to be a swimmer to try scuba diving. The crystal blue waters are so clear that you can always opt for snorkelling if you want to skip scuba diving. There is also an excellent night kayaking expedition that takes you through the mangroves. The unreal experience of watching the water bioluminescence below and the sky filled stars above cannot be paralleled. <div type="image" title="scuba diving, Havelock" msid="81126940" hostid="261"></div> There is so much to see in Havelock that it is best to hire a bike or cycle. But we must warn you that while happily cruising on well-made tar roads you may land up literally nowhere. "Some (roads) took us to beaches and others just abruptly ended by fields or the forest," Dr. Vasireddy tells us. <div type="image" title="Roads leading to nowhere, Havelock" msid="81127015" hostid="261"></div> Beaches <keyword id="1578932" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Radhanagar-beach">Radhanagar Beach</keyword> (Beach No.7), Elephant Beach, and Vijaynagar Beach (Beach No.5) are some of the most well-known beaches in Havelock. Radhanagar beach is flanked by the ocean on one side and lush rainforest on the other. This west-facing beach is ideal for catching the sunset. You can also walk down to Neil's Cove, a secluded spot perfect for sunbathing and a spot for swimming in shallow water. <div type="image" title="Sunset at Havelock" msid="81127095" hostid="261"></div> Elephant beach may not be easy to get to, but the beauty of the place more than makes up for the effort. The beach features some bleached driftwood and logs that provide an excellent backdrop for a photo-op. This is also an ideal place to go snorkelling. Vijaynagar beach is where the buzz is. This is where most of the restaurants, hotels and snorkelling centres are situated. The beach faces east and is, therefore, a great place to catch the sunrise. However, because the water is shallow and strewn with rocks, swimming here is not the easiest. <div type="image" title="Red snapper grilled in lemon pepper sauce with rice and roasted potatoes" msid="81127169" hostid="261"></div> Food The local food, if idyllic surroundings are not enough, is usually a combination of Indian and continental cuisine that is absolutely delicious. Dr. Vasireddy recommends - Fat Martin's Cafe in Vijaynagar that serves south Indian food including a delicious Nutella dosa; Anju Coco that strangely enough serves the "best biriyani”; Something Different serves excellent continental seafood pizza and amazing desserts; Moonlight Cafe is great for seafood. The restaurants here are a seafood lovers paradise, serving up a fantastic variety of fresh red snappers, calamari, prawns, and so much more. That being said, there are plenty of vegetarian options too. Accommodation There are plenty of hotels to choose from high-end Taj Hotels to more affordable options like Wild Orchid, SilverSand Beach Resort, Munjoh Ocean Resort and Symphony Palms Beach Resort. The hotels are clean, and most are environmentally conscious. Most hotels and restaurants on the Island provide only RO water and not plastic bottles, as is sadly the norm elsewhere. And if you choose to buy water, the local stores have nothing smaller than 2-litre bottles to reduce the amount of plastic used. <div type="image" title="Bambooka, the government ferry" msid="81127801" hostid="261"></div> How to get there From Port Blair, the best way to get to Havelock is by ferry. The government ferry from Port Blair to Havelock takes around 2.5 hours but please note that the outside deck area has no seating, so you will have to bring something to place on the floor to sit on. The booking process is slightly cumbersome, but you can get a travel agent to take care of everything, which will still be cheaper than private options. MV Makruzz and Coastal Cruise are the private companies that ferry people across to the Island. They take around 1.5 hours to get to Havelock. Connectivity If you are hankering for some serious digital detox there is no better place than Havelock. There is limited to no connectivity on the island. BSNL is the only cellular service that works but the network is patchy. Hotels usually provide wi-fi access, but most are limited to the lobby area. <div type="image" title="Port Blair" msid="81127917" hostid="261"></div> PORT BLAIR While Andaman and Nicobar Islands' capital may not seem all that appealing as a tourism destination, there are plenty of places you can visit while here. There is a high probability of you spending the night there since the ferries to the islands do not operate at night. So depending on your flight timing, chances are, one way or the other you will have to stay in Port Blair. If you opt to stay in Port Blair, <keyword id="10800405" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Chidiya-Tapu">Chidiya Tapu</keyword> (Bird Island) is an excellent place to explore. The area offers some fabulous diving spots, including Mundapahad, ideal for beginners and the old shipwreck, a site for advanced divers and home to clownfish, schooling snapper, resting ray and lots of colourful corals. If you want to give the water a break, the place is an excellent spot for birdwatching. The mangroves and rainforests here play host to a bunch of migratory birds and flowers. You can also hike to Mundapahad lighthouse. ReefWatch Marine Conservation, in collaboration with Lacadives, offers an informative mangrove walk (when the tide is out) and informs you about the surrounding ecosystem. <div type="image" title="The view from Mt. Harriet" msid="81127981" hostid="261"></div> Dr. Vasireddy decided to stay at the relatively new Big Tree Resort featuring only eight cabins, an in-house restaurant and a supremely friendly dog called Momo. Momo insists all guests should play with him and will bring you a coconut husk that you need to pry out of his mouth and throw so that he can fetch it, thus providing an excellent way to drive away the blues. <div type="image" title="Cellular Jail" msid="81128022" hostid="261"></div> Another site that may be worth a visit, especially if you are a history buff, is the colonial prison called Cellular Jail (Kālā Pānī) that is where most freedom fighters, including Veer Savarkar, were shipped off to before independence. There is an informative light show in the evening and the tour of the jail itself is quite fascinating. <div type="image" title="Limestone Caves" msid="81128047" hostid="261"></div> BARATANG MANGROVE FOREST AND LIMESTONE CAVES To experience the fascinating limestone caves and mangrove forests in <keyword id="5041058" type="LOCATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="Baratang-Island">Baratang Island</keyword>, you will have to head to the Jirkatang check post (a little over an hour-long-drive from Port Plair), which marks the beginning of the area where the Jarawa tribes of Andaman Islands live. After the clearance is done, you can drive through Jarawa reserve forest, but note that taking photos is strictly not prohibited. Once you reach the other end, you have to take a ferry to cross the water and arrive at Baratang. Here you can take a permit and board a speedboat to ride through the mangroves and arrive at a trekking spot from where you have to walk for 1.2 km through villages to reach the spectacular limestone caves. The journey may sound daunting, but this is one of the unforgettable experiences you wouldn't want to miss. However, respecting the people's privacy and regulations, particularly of the tribals, is of paramount importance.

Exploring the unreal beauty of the Andaman Islands

India is a country that has a date with gluten at least twice a day. Chapatis and rotis make for a healthy diet as the nation has believed since long. Going gluten-free means revisiting your diet and entirely changing the way one has been cooking for ages. Will the threat of <keyword id="715743" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Celiac-disease">Celiac disease</keyword> bring about this change? 
 
India is slowly opening up to gluten-free diet while the West has made inroads into gluten intolerance research. Many experts and nutrition specialists have been warning for long that gluten disorders were affecting an increasing number of people across the world. 
 
According to them, avoiding gluten from diet will ensure a better sense of well-being, a great health for years and higher energy levels. Many people have said their sense of ‘comprehensive wellness’ has increased after they kept gluten out of their diet. But in India, it is largely seen as a western concept and it is not treated with the same seriousness as in the West. Lack of awareness and acknowledgement has led to an increased risk of Celiac disease in the country. 
 
Fitness experts who advocated replacing rice with rotis now have a tough task at hand. And those who want to clear their gut, the most affected part of the body when gluten enters the digestive stream, have to give up on humble foods they have been eating since time immemorial. Gluten-free foods are far and few between. But the perks of giving up gluten are really high when compared to the aspect of ‘rethinking food.’ 
 
If someone said he/she had to have gluten-free rotis few years ago, the eyes would roll and eyebrows would shoot up to convey confusion and disbelief. But things are slowly changing for good. Now restaurants serve gluten-free recipes, even when the level of awareness of Celiac disease remains at bare minimum. Whether one agrees or not, gluten-intolerance is here to stay and India is slowly turning back to its traditional cooking that was low in gluten, always. 
 
Some gluten-free diet aficionados have been advocating ‘trial-and-conclusion’ method of keeping gluten out of the gut. A six-week trial, as advocated by some dieticians, is about avoiding foods like chapattis, rotis, cakes, biscuits, doughnuts, asafoetida and related products. 
 
Instead, what comes in is the good old rice and rice-based items such as dosa, idly, appam etc. The millets that were considered the food of the poor such as ragi, jowar and bajra make a grand comeback. Consuming good quantities of fresh curd, milk, lassi, fruits and vegetables are certain to make the gut colonies better infested with helpful bacteria, which will accelerate the digestion process. 
 
Staying off gluten is not just about improving digestion. It is also about glowing skin and beauty benefits are aplenty with this diet. It’s here to stay!

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