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Editor’s Note
Shunali Khullar Shroff is a writer in every sense of the word. Her bestselling books include ‘Love in the time of Affluenza’ and ‘Battle Hymn of a Bewildered Mother'. She is also a columnist, screenwriter and luxury and travel connoisseur. And she’s worked as a journalist and communications expert in the past. Who better to give us excellent suggestions for a few good things to perk up our lives?
What I’m reading: I like to inhabit different realities at the same time and so I end up reading three books, if not more, at a time. At present I’m reading Mary Oliver’s ‘Devotions’—a beautiful anthology of her most sacred poems that she’s handpicked herself. I start my day by reading a Mary Oliver poem along with my morning cup of tea, soon after which I read splainer.
I’m also reading ‘The Palace Papers’ by Tina Brown—an engaging as well as entertaining book about the lives, loves, scandals and betrayals that have afflicted the British Royal family. Even though the size of the book makes it seem like a formidable commitment, Brown’s historically, anthropologically and sharply told account of what goes on within the lives of ‘the firm’ makes it a riveting read. Think of it as the next best thing to watching a season of ‘The Crown’.
How I’m beating the heat: I’m drinking a delicious cocktail made of basil seeds, tender coconut water with a few drops of rose water mixed in it along with a pinch of jaggery. It’s cooling for the system and very filling.
What I’m shopping for myself: I’m in love with linen sarees and I thank Anavila Misra for introducing me to them. I’ve recently bought a linen saree in romantic pink from Dressfolk and I’m going to Anavila’s store this week to look at her new khadi collection. Even though I’m no fan of khadi, I’m sure she’s managed to do something wonderful with it.
What I’m shopping for my house: I’ve recently bought a gorgeous Iranian carpet in wool from Mujtaba Mir of Harmukhh carpets who I’ve been dealing with for years. He sells authentic products and can be contacted on Instagram.
What I’m shopping for my dogs: My dogs are allergic to strong preservatives that can be found in several canine treat brands that seem to have hit the Indian pooch market like a tsunami. I’ve been buying pet products from Goofy Tails and I love their quality and packaging. Even my dogs swear by it.
What I’m listening to on Spotify: I find Krishna Das and Snatam Kaur’s devotional music most calming. As is ‘Bookclub’—a BBC Radio 4 podcast that I’ve only recently discovered where a group of passionate readers talk to well-known novelists about their work.
Where I’d rather be right now: Somewhere in the mountains. Perhaps the Glenburn Tea Estate—a gem of a colonial-era retreat in the middle of tea plantations near Darjeeling. Glenburn is easy luxury served in a Wedgewood teacup.
Note: This is NOT sponsored content. We use this section to spotlight the recommendations of people we trust and admire.