LETTER FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

TILL A FEW DAYS AGO WE WERE SWEATING IT

out, the smell and sourness of summer fruit still sharp on our tongues. Yet October is here and the first of the festivals has hit the sweet spot. This is the season of enchantment; of revelry, parties, giving, lights, and above all else, gratitude. We celebrate the season with our annual festival guide which gives one a glimpse of small wonders in tough times; things that we should celebrate irrespective of whether one is fretting about the larger things in life. Our cover girl actor Rakul Preet loves the festivities but has figured out healthy ways of feasting on the goodies, something we are taking note of separately as well as more and more people want to gift and eat desserts that are inventive and made using high quality, natural ingredients. She also tells us how as you grow older, festivals are the link between your past and future and become a time to indulge in some willful, sweet nostalgia. Wondering what to stock your bar with this season? Our sommelier tells you what your festival bar should look like and how, you need to look closer home for your tipple bliss as Indian liquor brands are giving us much to celebrate. From the finest phones to buy ahead of Diwali to luxury gift hampers that scream indulgence, and watches that are ideal for gifting, our festival guide gives you a taste of what’s hot and trendy this year. As you deck up your home and splurge on fashion that makes you sparkle , our experts share their festive vision with you to ensure you are on track. Luxury brand Louis Vuitton also tells you how to accessorise right this season. There are a flurry of launches targeting this season and we line them up for you in this issue. Sure, there are other pressing problems in life but just for a moment, cast all your doubts and insecurities aside and give in to the warmth and bonhomie that characterises this season. Be your sentimental, fuzzy best and indulge in the joy of giving and taking. Happy celebrating!