Monsoon, food, and Barbiecore: Read these unique lifestyle features on mid-day.com from this week

Explore stories about food, culture, music and health and wellness this week. Image for representational purpose only. Photo Courtesy: istock

Ahead of the release of ‘Smoke and Ashes' in Mumbai, Indian author Amitav Ghosh spoke to us in an exclusive interview about everything that fascinates him about the opium trade, and how it influenced India in many ways. In another exclusive interview, mid-day.com also spoke to table virtuoso Zakir Hussain who spoke about his collaboration with the NCPA for Symphony Orchestra of India's upcoming season. He also spoke about the evolution in the audience attending Indian classical performances, as well as how the table has become a global instrument. When it comes to music, this week, also has an interview with iconic Mumbai rock band Indus Creed who talk about Independence Rock, evolution of rock music and the underground music scene.

In food, we remind you how it is the best time to enjoy soups because the season demands it. Chefs not only share recipes for delicious soups but also those that are healthy, and one that you should definitely enjoy during the next few months. There is more for the season, especially if you love pomegranates, which are being seen across markets in the city. Chefs share recipes not only for sweet dishes but also savoury specials, along some others for drinks, that you can make any time.

The monsoon is not only about food but also some good fashion hacks that can help you navigate rains and yet look stylish. Fashion experts suggest the ideal attire from top to bottom for this season, to help you stay fashionable. At the same time, it is hard to ignore the Barbie way, and everything being called ‘Barbiecore'. Since pink is trending, fashion experts share how you can pull off your favourite Barbie looks and stay trendy for as long as people are going to obsess over the film that released last Friday.

When one talks about the influence on culture on our lifestyle, it is had to ignore the recent indecent behaviour by many passengers mid-air, as they not only yell but also urinate, defecate and spit during the flight, causing discomfort to co-passengers, and cabin crew. Mid-day.com spoke to former airline cabin crew, an Indian airline, and a psychiatrist to dive deep into this disturbing culture.

With health taking centre stage at all times, there is an increasing number of people who are also investing in cosmetic surgery. Experts decode why it is gaining prominence and why more young Indians are opting for the procedures. The monsoon also brings with it its own set of issues and that can affect one's skin in many ways including whiteheads, which are a sign of clogged pores. An expert shares an easy guide to getting rid of whiteheads, blackheads and clogged pores. Last but not the least, bad breath is very common among people, and very often can put people off. Though normal, it is an indicator of many health conditions from poor oral hygiene to diabetes. We have experts share tips on how to combat bad breath.

Here is the complete list of features from this week:

Amitav Ghosh: Mumbai for much of its history was kept afloat by the Malwa opium trade
In an exclusive interview with Mid-day.com, Indian writer Amitav Ghosh says why he is fascinated by the Opium trade, ahead of the launch of his latest non-fiction book ‘Smoke and Ashes' in Mumbai on July 18. It has previously been the subject of Ibis Trilogy but the Padma Shri awardee also delves into how it shaped many aspects of Indian life

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Selfies to scalpels: Gen Z leads the way in India's cosmetic surgery boom
A recent study reveals that 70 per cent of all the women who opted for breast implants in 2022 fell in the age group of 21 to 30. Experts decode why cosmetic surgery is gaining prominence among young Indians

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Urinating, defecating, yelling: With passengers creating nuisance mid-air, airline, former crew members weigh in on challenges
As instances of unruly behavior on flights continue to be reported, former cabin crew members and an Indian airline have come together to discuss the challenges faced and the rules governing such situations. Additionally, a Mumbai psychiatrist sheds light on why such behavior is on the rise and suggests potential solutions

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Chefs share delicious and healthy soup recipes to savour during monsoon
There is nothing more comforting than hot beverages like soup during monsoon. Further, the added health benefits make it an ideal drink for the rainy season. Here chefs share some easy and healthy soup recipes that are a good change from the usual ones

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Combatting bad breath: Expert tips to get rid of a stinking mouth
Getting a wisp of bad breath from a person talking to you is pure disgusting. We've all been there. Bad breath or a stinking mouth is a regular occurrence in our lives. Though normal, it is an indicator of many health conditions from poor oral hygiene to diabetes. We have experts share tips on how to combat bad breath

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Indus Creed praises the underground scene as a countercultural response to the mainstream
Iconic Mumbai rock band Indus Creed reflects on live performances, rediscovering passion for music, and the importance of the underground scene

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Popping whiteheads? A guide to getting rid of clogged pores during monsoon
Whiteheads are a common skin problem that spares none. If you have spotted clogged pores on your face lately, chances are it's due to the monsoon season. An expert shares an easy guide to getting rid of whiteheads, blackheads and clogged pores

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Cheer for pomegranates: Make unique drinks and dishes with the fruit
Use pomegranates to not only make pancakes and pizza but also some refreshing mocktails and potent cocktails

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Body hair removal: Experts explain the benefits of shaving, share skincare tips
For many women, shaving is the most convenient and economical body hair removal technique. But can it cause skin damage? Experts share a one-stop guide about all you need to know when shaving and using a razor

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Monsoon essentials: Ultimate fashion guide to keep you dry and stylish
If you are looking to revamp your monsoon wardrobe, here is the ultimate fashion guide to amp up your look this rainy season

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Experts share styling tips for Barbiecore fashion
The key to Barbiecore fashion is embracing your playful side and having fun with colours, patterns and accessories! If you wish to sport Barbiecore fashion, we have some really vibrant styling tips by experts

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Tabla virtuoso Ustad Zakir Hussain reminisces about a special memory in Mumbai and talks about the evolution of Indian classical music
In an exclusive chat with Mid-day.com, Ustad Zakir Hussain discusses his upcoming collaboration with NCPA for the Symphony Orchestra of India's season with flautist Rakesh Chaurasia and sitarist Niladri Kumar, reminisces about a special moment in Mumbai, and explores the growing popularity of tabla as a versatile percussion instrument worldwide

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