Cooking competition by Telangana Biodiversity Board

 The cooking competition organized by the Telangana Biodiversity Board was conducted on 12th May 2026 at IIHM Hyderabad, Gachibowli, on the occasion of the International Day for Biological Diversity 2026. The theme of the competition was “Traditional Foods and Healthy Lifestyle.”

Participants from different parts of Hyderabad enthusiastically took part in the event, showcasing dishes inspired by indigenous ingredients and regional food traditions. I also participated in the competition and prepared a special version of jowar-wheat aloo paratha.

The stuffing was flavourful and wholesome, made using chopped onions, mashed potatoes, ginger, garlic, curry leaves, and traditional Indian spices such as chaat masala, salt, coriander powder, cumin powder, and til (sesame seeds). The combination of wheat and jowar flour gave the parathas a soft texture while also highlighting the importance of traditional grains in everyday food.

                                             

To complement the dish, I prepared local gongura chutney along with refreshing mango lassi so that the plate would have a balance of sour, spicy, salty, and sweet flavors. The gongura added a distinct Telangana touch to the dish, while the mango lassi with sabja seeds and tuti fruti topped on it,provided freshness and balance.

The parathas turned out very soft and delicious. The chefs and judges appreciated the flavors and the thoughtful use of indigenous ingredients. Most importantly, I personally felt happy and satisfied with my preparation and presentation. Participating in the competition was a memorable experience and also a reminder of how traditional foods can beautifully connect health, culture, and biodiversity.

                                                 

When In Rome

“When in Rome, do as the Romans do” is a well-known saying. But today, I am talking about the restaurant When in Rome in Hyderabad.

We recently visited the restaurant for a family outing after almost three months of not meeting each other properly. Since the children wanted to enjoy pizza and pasta together at one place, we decided to try this much-talked-about retaurant. We pre-booked our table through District, which offered a discount on the final bill.

When we reached the place, we had mixed feelings. The dining area was smaller than it appeared in the pictures online. Another thing we noticed was that there were no physical menu cards on the tables. Customers need to go to the counter and order by referring to the menu displayed on the wall.

However, the staff member taking our order was patient and helpful. She explained everything clearly — from basil sauce and pasta varieties to crust options and add-ons that would make the dishes taste better.

Gradually, our food started arriving at the table. We liked some dishes quite a lot, while a few others did not match our expectations. Still, the outing turned out to be a pleasant family get-together filled with conversations and laughter.

The total bill came to around ₹5700 for a family of five, even after the discount. For that budget, Hyderabad definitely offers several other dining options with a larger spread and ambience. But When in Rome is still worth trying at least once — especially for those who enjoy experimenting with European-style food and spending relaxed family time together.

Prepaid Taxi from Airport operated by Traffic police and Saavari cab services(Hyderabad)

Travelling in big Indian cities can often be expensive and stressful, especially when it comes to airport transfers. Recently, I had experiences in both Delhi and Hyderabad that made me realize how convenient and affordable government taxi services can be compared to private taxi brands.

When we travelled from the airport in Delhi to the railway station, we first enquired with several private taxi vendors about their fares. After comparing prices, we discovered that the government taxi service, Bharat Taxi, was the best option. It seemed genuine, reliable, and did not pinch our pocket.

The government taxi service(operated by Traffic Police) offered two types of fares — a cheaper non-AC option and a slightly more expensive AC option. Considering the heavy traffic and long travel time in Delhi, we found this system quite reasonable. The roads were tightly packed with vehicles, traffic jams were everywhere, and there were numerous traffic signals on the way. Our taxi driver was a decent and helpful person who guided us through Sardar Patel Road, which appeared like a long river meandering through the city, lined with government houses and buildings representing different states of India.

A similar experience happened when we arrived late at night at the airport in Hyderabad around 8:30 PM. Initially, we decided to hire taxis from branded private companies. However, their rates were sky-rocketing. Due to CNG cylinders occupying boot space, many of the smaller cars could not accommodate luggage properly. Although we were only three passengers, they insisted that we book a larger van, making the fare even more expensive.

Eventually, we chose the government taxi service instead. Even after adding an extra Rs. 50 toll charge, the fare was much lower than that quoted by the private taxi operators. What impressed me the most was the spacious sedan provided by the government taxi service. All three of our bags fit comfortably in the boot, and there was still ample space left.

These experiences taught me an important lesson: while travelling, it is wise to compare options carefully instead of immediately choosing branded services. The money saved on transportation can always be used for other important needs or enjoyable experiences during the journey. While travelling to the airport, it is often better to pre-book a cab through the Savaari cab service. It is reliable and transparent in pricing. Unlike many private taxi operators, they usually do not impose hidden charges or increase fares during heavy traffic or busy routes. The only condition is that the cab needs to be booked in advance. Proper pre-booking can save both money and last-minute stress during travel.

                                      https://www.savaari.com/

Gilco Park Hill Mohali

My relatives live in Gilco Park Hills, a beautiful residential society known for its greenery and peaceful environment. The society has a large open green space at its center, where adults enjoy walking barefoot on the soft grass and spending time amidst nature. In the evenings, children gather at the park to play on the swings and enjoy themselves until sunset, filling the surroundings with laughter and energy.

One of the most striking features of the society is its clean and fresh environment. The AQI level is comparatively low, making the sky appear clear at night. During our stay there, we could easily observe bright stars sparkling across the sky, a sight that has become rare in many crowded cities.

The society promotes a healthy and active lifestyle. Many senior citizens perform yoga and light exercises in the evening, while residents of all age groups enjoy walking around the beautifully maintained park. There is also a spacious amphitheatre in the center, which adds charm to the surroundings and serves as a gathering place for community activities.

The clubhouse is another attraction of the society. It includes a swimming pool, gymnasium, carrom board, and table tennis facilities. Residents regularly visit the clubhouse to relax, exercise, and socialize with one another.

Although there are no grocery stores or eateries inside the society premises, local vegetable and fruit vendors visit daily, making fresh produce easily available to residents. Naturally, the prices are slightly higher due to doorstep convenience. Just outside the society, there is a grocery store called M & M Grocery Store, which caters to daily household needs. Nearby, Hotel Park Hills offers decent dining facilities with both buffet and à la carte options at reasonable prices.

Security arrangements in the society are good, making it a safe and decent place to live. Many doctors and healthcare professionals reside here because of its proximity to Fortis Hospital Chandigarh. Cricket stadium is also nearby.

The society consists of six residential blocks, all designed in a circular layout around the central garden and amphitheatre. This thoughtful planning gives the society an open, connected, and aesthetically pleasing appearance, making it an ideal residential community for families and senior citizens alike.

   

Maya Garden City Zirakpur Punjab

Maya Garden City, Zirakpur is truly like a mini city in itself — a beautifully planned residential society with multiple towers and a wide variety of homes catering to people working in and around Chandigarh. Built nearly a decade ago, it has become a warm and welcoming home for many families.

The society offers 1 BHK, 2 BHK, 3 BHK, 4 BHK, and even spacious 5 BHK apartments, making it suitable for people from different walks of life and budgets. One of its biggest advantages is affordability along with comfort and convenience.

Maya Garden City has four well-guarded gates with strong security arrangements, including one gate exclusively for residents. There is also a shopping complex inside the society itself, making daily life easy and comfortable.

The surroundings are vibrant and well-developed. Reputed schools are located nearby, and essential facilities such as medical shops, eateries, grocery stores, and household shops are all available at a stone’s throw away. Popular brands and outlets like McDonald’s, Decathlon, D-Mart, Westside, Monte Carlo, and Bikanervala further enhance the lifestyle experience.

Unlike many modern high-rise projects, Maya Garden City has only 12 floors, which gives it a less crowded and more peaceful atmosphere. The society is filled with lush greenery, beautiful gardens, colorful flowers, and numerous parks for both children and adults. Residents enjoy a calm, joyful, and community-oriented lifestyle here.

Centrally located and close to major attractions like Chhatbir Zoo and Elante Mall, Maya Garden City feels like a secure fortress equipped with modern amenities and natural beauty.

Like every older property, there are a few challenges too. Some buildings have experienced seepage issues. However, the RWA has recently taken active steps to address the problem. Funds have been collected from residents, and renovation, waterproofing, and repainting work has already begun.

Many new residential projects have emerged over the years, but Maya Garden City still holds its own unique charm and identity. It continues to be loved by its residents for its greenery, accessibility, affordability, and strong sense of community.

Ms Anunidhi Sharma