Latest news with #Punekars
Time of India
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Pune Poetry Clubs: Poetry clubs bring Pune's literary enthusiasts together
Poetry, of late, is picking up as the go-to thing among like-minded Punekars who share a common love for literature. This has given rise to multiple poetry clubs that now get together every weekend to exchange poems, discuss the ones they may have read and celebrate a literary art form that many have lost touch with. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The rise of poetry gatherings Poetry events have been giving people a chance to not just engage in something they love, but also a way to unwind. Gradually, this has carved a route map for over 20 poetry groups in the city. As Saad Ahmed Shaikh, an assistant professor and the co-founder of Baithak and Beyond , says, 'Ten years ago, there were barely one or two poetry communities. They faced their share of challenges but set things in motion for such gatherings. Venues weren't always accommodating, but these people stayed committed, and slowly, the movement began to grow.' an attendee at a certain poetry circle event (credits - Baithak and Beyond @baithakandbeyond) Disha Tasgaonkar, an author, poet and the founder of Poets of Pune , states that they have a lot of young attendees at events. Acknowledging the important role that social media platforms like Instagram have played in the literary resurgence, she says, 'When young people see their innermost feelings mirrored and validated by the poets they follow, it not only resonates deeply but often inspires them to begin their own creative journeys." Disha's thoughts are mirrored by 18-year-old student Amita Gurav for whom poetry holds a deeper significance. She shares, 'Poetry became an emotional outlet for me and helped me in more ways than I expected. These gatherings are a powerful way to connect with like-minded people. I've learned how others see the world and I've discovered some incredible poems that continue to inspire me.' Garima Mishra, founder of KavitaKAFE , another poetry group from the city, adds, 'It's particularly uplifting to see these young voices move beyond the pursuit of fleeting fame on social media platforms.' Tired of too many ads? go ad free now ALSO READ: Should you ditch a party for a poetry gathering this weekend? The answer to this question may depend on whether you like poetry or are just keen to see what these events offer. Either way, many attendees often turn up out of curiosity but stay back after falling in love with poetry. Take Nishant Sahu, a 45-year-old accountant, for example. Nishant recently attended one such event with his wife. 'She's a writer but had never attended something like this before. We thought we'd just try it out, but once we were at the gathering, it opened the door to a completely different world,' he says, adding, 'People from different parts of the country and walks of life came together and express themselves through poetry, ghazals, nazms. It was moving.' In a world where we are constantly looking for safe spaces, these meetings are the silver lining. People support each other. It's not just about poetry. It's about building healthy communities where open conversations are encouraged,' says Sonali Rasal, founder of multiple poetry circles including The Literati, on a concluding note. Group photo from an event hosted by Tape a Tale The flourishing of poetry clubs and events in the city has breathed new life into the literary and cultural landscape. The enthusiasm we witness at the open mic sessions, especially among the youth, is remarkable. Young poets, performing in both Hindi and English, display not just raw talent but also a dedication to the craft. - Garima Mishra, founder, KavitaKAFE Some poetry communities in the city to lookout for
Indian Express
5 days ago
- Business
- Indian Express
Pune on My Plate: At over 1,000 servings a day, Kakdi khichadi at Bipin's is city's fasting favourite
As the sacred month of Shravan begins, the streets of Pune come alive with the aroma of fasting delicacies and, for many, the season is incomplete without a piping-hot plate of kakdi khichadi from Bipin Snacks Centre, a modest but iconic eatery nestled near Karve Road, Deccan Gymkhana. For over three decades, this tiny establishment has been feeding Punekars its much-loved khichadi, especially popular during the fasting period when traditional meals give way to upwas food. But kakdi khichadi, a savoury mix of grated cucumber, sago pearls, seasoned peanuts and potato chiwda, remains the unrivalled bestseller. 'Every day after work, I walk here for my plate of khichadi,' says Akash Kamat, a software employee whose office is nearby. 'Before the pandemic, 'Mama' used to run the centre. We were all afraid the taste might vary when the ownership changed, but thankfully, it did not.' The 'Mama' he referred to was the original owner of Bipin Snacks Centre, a name that had become synonymous with affordable, homely, and delicious upwas snacks in the area. However, in 2023, amid the uncertainty of the pandemic, the ownership quietly changed hands. Enter Atish Dede, who now manages the eatery full-time, while his brother Amol, a bank employee, officially owns it. 'At first, it felt surreal,' Atish says. 'We took over during the lockdown, and I wasn't sure if people would still like the place. But the kakdi khichadi sold like crazy, nearly 1,000 plates a day, with the sales increasing during Shravan. Our staff of 24 still cannot keep up. Usually by 5 pm, it is sold out.' The brothers' love for the place runs deeper than just business. Amol, who works with Janata Bank, speaks about his connection to the eatery: 'I used to eat breakfast here every morning. Over time, I became close to the owner and helped with his banking work. When he decided to sell, I couldn't let go of the opportunity. It was like buying a piece of my memory.' In a city that is constantly changing, Bipin Snacks Centre remains a delicious reminder of continuity, community, and culinary comfort. As the khichadi simmers on the stove and customers line up patiently, it is clear – this isn't just food, it is a legacy served on a plate. (Divyaja Kalyankar is an intern with The Indian Express)
Time of India
11-07-2025
- Time of India
Your weekend fix: A slice of history and quirks at the city's museums
Pune offers diverse museums showcasing history and culture. Prasanna Kale found the Vikram Pendse Cycle Museum and Peshwe Museum surprisingly engaging. Blades of Glory Cricket Museum displays cricket memorabilia. The Vikram Pendse Cycle Museum traces the evolution of bicycles. Joshi's Museum of Miniature Railways exhibits model trains. Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum houses artefacts dating back to the 9th century. Most people expect museums to be quiet halls filled with ageing artefacts and hushed reverence, but for 25-year-old Pune-based insurance worker Prasanna Kale, the city's quirky museums offered something entirely unexpected. A visit to the Vikram Pendse Cycle Museum and the historically rich Peshwe Museum left him pleasantly surprised. 'I went in expecting a quick look around and ended up spending hours,' he says, adding, 'It made me realise how much of Pune's soul is tucked away in these little-known corners.' In a city that has a deep-rooted connection to history and culture, museums have been giving Punekars a glimpse of interesting collections along with a slice of history. This weekend, you could head to one or all of them to check out what they have to offer. Blades of Glory Cricket Museum Where: Tulshibagwale Colony, Parvati Paytha Timings: 10 am-7 pm (Daily) Entry fee: Rs 236 per person by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Is it legal? How to get Internet without paying a subscription? Techno Mag Learn More Undo At Blades of Glory, the walls are lined with signed bats, jerseys, and priceless cricket artefacts that speak about a lifelong devotion to the sport. Founded by Rohan Pate, this museum has seen various cricket greats, including Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli and Rahul Dravid, admiring the collection. For 17-year-old Atharva Vaidya, a student, visiting the museum was both inspiring and eye-opening. 'The highlights for me were the sections on Tendulkar and Kohli,' he says. If given a chance, Atharva says he would love to create a museum of foreign coins and currency notes in Pune. Vikram Pendse Cycles private Museum Where: Sahawas Society, Karvenagar Timings: 11 am – 6 pm (Saturdays and Sundays) Entry fee: Rs. 100 per person At the Vikram Pendse Cycle Museum, the evolution of two-wheelers is traced through beautifully preserved vintage cycles, each with its own story. The collection has over 150 cycles, right from foldable cycles used by paratroopers in the second world war, to a tricycle manufactured in 1925. Joshi's Museum of Miniature Railways Where: Late GA Kulkarni Path, near Karishma Society, Kothrud Timings: 9.30 am – 5 pm (Monday to Friday); 9.30 am – 4 pm and 5-8 pm (Saturdays)5-8 pm (Sundays) Entry fee: Rs. 120 Another addition to the unusual museums based on hobbies, Joshi's railway museum takes itsrvisitors on a journey through the eyes and the vision of its creator. True to their names, these museums feature an exclusive and niched collection of exhibits. While the miniature trains may seem like childlike fascinations at first glance, their depth often surprises visitors. 'Globally, model trains are considered the queen of all hobbies because nearly every branch of science is covered in this — from physics and electronics to photography and math,' says Dr Ravi Joshi, director of the museum. Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum Where: Natu Baag, Shukrawar Peth Timings: 10 am – 5.30 pm (Daily) Entry fee: Rs. 100 for Indians and Rs 350 for foreigners The Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, built from the personal collection of poet and historian Dr D G Kelkar, houses artefacts dating back to the 9th century. It's among the oldest and most well-known museums in the city. 'Dr Kelkar's vision was to narrate history through artefacts,' says director Sudhanva Ranade, who has also introduced tech upgrades like 3D virtual tours and smart audio guides to engage younger visitors at the museum. There is also an additional fee of Rs. 100 for mobile photography, Rs. 200 for still photography and Rs. 500 for videography. Peshwe Museum Where: Parvati Hills, Parvati Paytha Timings: 7.30 am - 8 pm (Daily) Entry fee: Rs. 20 Meanwhile, the Peshwe Museum offers a glimpse into the legacy of the Maratha empire, showcasing tools, weapons, and artefacts from an era that once defined the city's power and prestige, quietly preserving a past often overshadowed by grander monuments. This one is popular among youngsters to get a glimpse of the rich history of the city. Other museums that you can visit Mahatma Phule Museum (Ghole Road), Tribal Cultural Museum (Camp), Zapurza Museum of Art & Culture (Kudje village)
Time of India
11-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
Running clubs turning weekends into high-energy social gatherings
Running is no longer just about fitness. It's now a ritual and a community gathering for many Punekars. Running communities that have popped up across the city are bringing people together from across age groups and professions. So, if you are craving some fitness regime with a side of social connection and fun, a running club could be your go-to. Here are the deets. What's driving the city's running communities? At a time when digital fatigue is on the rise, experts say that offline fitness activities like running, are bringing a healthy disruption. There has also been a shift in the way fitness is pursued, with many people picking up running as an accessible form of workout. 'Running gives me control over my mental and physical space,' says Pranita Date, a psychologist who started running about two years ago and is a member of one of the running clubs. "It helps me reset and let go of the week's stress,' says Aryan Adinath Walke, a student and runner. What started with the idea of turning fitness into a community gathering has now become a platform for social connections as well. There's a certain amount of planning behind every effortless run, too. 'We look to curate an experience that would turn into a story for the participants,' says Aditya. Running clubs plan routes considering a theme, the number of shaded areas along the running route, and, of course, the safety of the runners. Themes are often suggested by the members. Blend of fitness and fun is what's ticking boxes Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More Undo by Taboola by Taboola What's interesting is the way the running communities have managed to turn running sessions into mini-festivals on weekends. 'We believe in breaking the stereotype that fitness has to be serious or intense all the time. The post-run parties create an emotional high after the physical effort. It's not just about celebration, but community bonding,' says Aditya Vavle, founder of a running club. The runs, generally about 5-kilometer long, are followed by fun sessions that include Zumba, Yoga, and competitions like Tug of War. 'I've found a tribe that genuinely supports each other, regardless of pace or experience,' says Yogesh Desale, a fitness trainer. What to expect as a first-time runner? Experts say that no prior running experience or a particular level of fitness is required to join any of these clubs. Most of the running clubs start their session with guided warm-ups, followed by a run. 'The activities are inclusive, so someone whose pace is slower is also welcome,' says Satish Kale, an organiser of a running club. QUOTES 'I came for the run, and stayed for the energy and the people' - Yogesh Desale, fitness trainer and runner 'In that one hour, I feel like a kid again—free, playful, alive' - Pranita Date, psychologist and runner 'It's not just a running club— it's the best place to challenge yourself, connect, and have fun' -Aryan Adinath Walke, a student and runner
Business Upturn
07-07-2025
- Automotive
- Business Upturn
VinFast Showcases Premium Electric SUVs VF 6 and VF 7 in Pune for the First Time
VinFast, the Vietnamese electric vehicle maker, has brought its premium electric SUVs — the VF 6 and VF 7 — to Pune for the first time, as part of a multi-city showcase across India. The display at Phoenix Mall, Viman Nagar, offers visitors a chance to experience the brand's advanced EV technology, bold design, and sustainability-driven vision up close. By Riddhima Jain Published on July 7, 2025, 17:01 IST Vietnamese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer VinFast is bringing its premium electric SUV models — VF 6 and VF 7 — to Pune for the first time, as part of a nationwide showcase across 11 Indian cities. The vehicles will be on display at Phoenix Mall, Viman Nagar, on July 5 and 6, offering Punekars a firsthand look at the company's cutting-edge EV technology and futuristic design. The showcase follows successful exhibitions in Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Thiruvananthapuram, and Vijayawada, and is part of VinFast's broader strategy to expand its presence in India, one of the world's fastest-growing EV markets. VinFast's VF 6 and VF 7 models made their India debut at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo earlier this year. Both SUVs are equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), panoramic sunroofs, large touchscreens, and the brand's signature V-shaped LED light strip. The VF 7 is designed with the 'Asymmetric Aerospace' aesthetic, while the VF 6 follows a 'Dualities in Nature' design philosophy — reflecting the brand's emphasis on modern styling and sustainable innovation. Targeted at tech-savvy and environmentally conscious buyers, the models aim to set new standards in the premium EV segment. Speaking on the Pune showcase, Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, said, 'Showcasing at high-footfall locations like Phoenix Mall is an opportunity to connect directly with Indian consumers and demonstrate our commitment to sustainable mobility.' VinFast, a subsidiary of Vietnam's Vingroup, is also building a manufacturing plant in Tamil Nadu and forming strategic partnerships to strengthen its EV ecosystem in India. The ongoing mall showcase is part of that outreach, with upcoming stops in Delhi, Ahmedabad, Gurugram, Kochi, Lucknow, and more. Ahmedabad Plane Crash
