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Travel + Leisure
28-05-2025
- Health
- Travel + Leisure
I'm Planning Two Big Beach Trips This Summer and This Is Everything I'm Packing
As someone who lives in Los Angeles and travels often for work, both with and without my family, I spend a lot of time at the beach—from weekday escapes around California beach locales like Santa Monica and Malibu, to sun-soaked beach destinations around the world. I most recently visited French Polynesia and Mexico and will be heading to Bodrum and Kos next. Over the years, I've honed my beach bag essentials down to what really works: items that are functional, durable, and make the day more enjoyable. I've tested countless products on sand, in the surf, and on the go, and this is everything I personally rely on again and again. Whether you're heading to a tropical resort, your local shore, or planning a full-on beach vacation, these are the must-haves I never hit the sand without. Credit: Raen $150 at Amazon View on View on Anthropologie With my sensitive eyes, I never head to the beach (or anywhere outside, frankly) without sunglasses—and I've learned the hard way that my good sunnies must be protected in a real case, not just tossed into a tote bag. Between the sunscreen spills (that can often strip lens coatings), rogue granules of sand, and the chaos of kids and miscellaneous accidents, flimsy fabric pouches don't cut it. I always pack my sunglasses in a sturdy hard case, so they actually survive the trip. I also love big sunglasses for eye-protection—not to mention coolness and style. This Raen pair are chic and modern, but still timeless, bound to last season after season. Just as important: they come with a structured case that makes it easy to keep them safe when you're not wearing them. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Factory I've tried a lot of beach hats over the years—and I've also accidentally destroyed many after getting them wet or cramming them into my bag or into overhead bins. This hat remains on Survivor Island. It's classic, stylish, durable, and actually provides real sun protection thanks to the wide brim. I also love that it's eminently packable, so I can toss it in a tote or even checked suitcase without worrying about it getting crushed. The straw is soft, but structured, and the shape holds up beautifully even after being stuffed into a beach bag or carry-on. It adds just the right amount of polish to a simple swimsuit-and-shorts look—and helps me avoid too much sun exposure, especially on my face. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Walmart $20 $19 at Amazon $23 at Walmart I always seem to require more coverage than a standard beach towel provides—and that's even more true when I'm hitting the beach with kids (who are not known for their spatial awareness)—so an oversized beach towel is a must. This microfiber towel measures a generous 71 by 32 inches, so it's spacious enough for lounging without my feet or belongings touching the sand. Despite its generous size, it folds down compactly, making it easy to fit into a beach bag without taking up much space. What I particularly appreciate about this towel is its quick-drying microfiber material. After a swim, it dries fast, so you don't have to deal with a soaked-through towel for the rest of the day. The fabric is also soft against the skin, adding to the comfort. Plus, the vibrant colors and patterns are lively and easily recognizable on the beach. Credit: Amazon $16 $13 at Amazon View on I've become less heat-tolerant as I get older, so I travel with a portable handheld fan these days. This compact, foldable version is incredibly lightweight and fits easily into my beach bag or even a travel purse. Despite its diminutive size, it delivers a meaningfully powerful breeze with two speed settings, and it really helps keep you cool. This fan's 180-degree foldable design lets you use it as a handheld fan or set it on a flat surface (like a towel or cooler top) for hands-free cooling. Plus, it doubles as a power bank with its 1800mAh battery, so it's a great backup to charge your phone in a pinch. The soft, safe blades are also a thoughtful touch, especially when using it around kids. It charges reasonably quickly—in about 2.5 hours—and the battery lasts between 14 to 21 hours, depending on usage. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure No matter where I travel—whether it's to the Mediterranean or a Tahitian island—I always spot chic Europeans carrying some version of a Longchamp bag. This highly practical and elegant mesh style is timeless, elegant, and endlessly versatile. It's lightweight, breathable, and easy to shake the sand out, so it stays on the beach where it belongs. The bag holds way more than it looks like it should and still manages to feel polished, not bulky. The classic leather trim gives it that signature upscale vibe, and the whole thing folds up flat, so it's easy to pack for vacation. It's the kind of bag that never goes out of style—and somehow works just as well at the beach as it does in the city. (Just make sure your small, loose items are in smaller pouches so they don't fall out of the mesh holes.) Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon $25 at Amazon View on Walmart View on When I'm at the beach, I want to be able to take photos, check messages, or even just carry my phone without constantly worrying about sand or water damage—and this waterproof phone pouch gives me extra peace of mind to use my tech. It's ultra-secure, genuinely waterproof, and still allows full touchscreen access, so I can snap pics or scroll to stay updated without taking my phone out, which is key when my hands are sandy or wet. It comes with a lanyard and has a snug, easy-to-grip design, so I don't worry about dropping it in the ocean or pool. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon $249 $199 at Amazon $250 at Target $239 $199 at Walmart Wireless headphones are a beach-day essential for me—I don't want any cords to get tangled, wet, or sandy. I prefer something compact, durable, and that actually works well; for me, that's these AirPods. Huge bonus is they work seamlessly with the Find My app, so you don't have to panic if they go missing in the shuffle. The sound quality is great, and the noise-cancellation properties help block out wind and chatter when I just want to zone out. The snug fit and water-resistance also mean they work equally well for lounging or walking along the shore. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon Nothing is more decadent for a beach day than a good book, but packing paperbacks or hardbacks just isn't practical for me. They can get warped by humidity, smudged with sunscreen, or crumpled in the bottom of a tote. Of course, they're also heavy for travel. That's why I always bring an e-reader instead. It's lighter than a single book and lets me carry an entire vacation's worth of reading in one slim device. I've had great luck with the glare-free screen of the Amazon Kindle that is easy to read even in bright sun, and the battery lasts for weeks—not hours. Plus, this model is surprisingly durable, but there are plenty of Kindle cases to choose from if you want extra protection. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon $129 at Amazon $100 at Target $259 at Music just makes any beach day more fun, but not every portable speaker is equipped to handle sand, water, and actual outdoor use. This one is up to the task. It's compact enough to toss in my bag without a second thought, but powerful enough to deliver clear, punchy sound across a wide area, even with waves crashing in the background. (Do be mindful of your beach neighbors, of course.) The Wonderboom 3 is waterproof, dustproof, and it even floats, and it has a loop for clipping to a beach umbrella or chair. The 14-hour battery life means you can charge it once and use it all day. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Amazon $12 at Amazon $12 at Nordstrom $28 at Target With a very fair-skinned son and a family history that makes us especially cautious, sunscreen is mission-critical over here. We reapply often, and we slather it on. This version goes on quickly and evenly, even on my son who'd rather be doing anything on the planet other than holding still for SPF application. I love that it's reef-friendly, water-resistant, and doesn't leave that chalky white cast that some mineral sunscreens do. Plus, it smells great and doesn't irritate sensitive skin. The ease of application is key because when it comes to sun protection, convenience makes a big difference in how well we actually stick to the routine. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Ulta View on Amazon $14 at Ulta View on My lips tend to get dry and sunburned faster than anything else at the beach—and not all SPF lip balms are created equal. I keep coming back to Lanolips Sun Balm because the texture is so smooth and hydrating, thanks to the lanolin-based formula. It feels like a rich, nourishing treatment rather than a waxy layer, and it actually lasts even through salty beach air and hours in the sun. The SPF 30 protection is solid, and I love that it doesn't have that weird sunscreen taste or chalky finish. It's one of those tiny things I never leave out of my beach bag—and it makes a big difference in how comfortable I feel all day. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Calpak In some parts of the world, the beach is alive with vendors selling snacks and drinks and everything else—but they can be pretty sparse in my home city of Los Angeles. So I never head to the beach without my own snack and drink inventory, and a soft cooler is the ticket to keeping items fresh and chilled (and saving money at the beach snack bars). I love this soft-sided Calpak cooler because it's surprisingly roomy without being bulky, and the design is so chic it actually looks like a weekender bag. It keeps everything cold for hours, even on the hottest days, and the easy-to-carry shoulder strap makes it practical for longer treks from the car to the sand. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: YETI $40 at Amazon $40 at REI $40 at L.L. Bean I have several of these Yeti Ramblers because they really are the gold standard for keeping drinks cold—like, forever . Even after hours in the hot sun, the ice inside is still clinking around. Plus, the 26-ounce size is generous enough that I don't have to constantly refill it to stay hydrated. I also love the wide mouth and sturdy handle, which is super easy to carry (or clip to a wagon or bag). Fair warning: it's on the heavy side, especially when it's full—but to me, the long-lasting chill is 100-percent worth it. I always bring at least one for myself and one for each of the kids. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Beek $280 at Amazon View on $280 at When it comes to beach footwear, you need something that's easy to slip on and off, won't fall apart if it gets wet, and ideally still looks polished enough for a seaside lunch (with pics!). My Beeks are way more supportive than flip-flops, with a cushioned sole and a subtle lift that gives a little height without sacrificing comfort—even when you're walking on boardwalks or uneven paths to the beach. They're also beautifully made, with buttery leather straps that feel luxe and get even better with wear. (Bonus: Beek donates meals to children in need with every pair sold, so you can feel good about the purchase, too.) Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: TA3 I've been wearing TA3 swimsuits since the brand first launched, and I've tried tons of styles; over time and iterations, the engineering gets better—better structure, more comfort, and smarter shaping. This suit in particular offers an incredible cinching effect thanks to a lace-up back that sculpts without digging in, and the fabric feels supportive in all the right places. This plunging version is bold yet flattering, and still feels secure enough for swimming. I also love that the leopard print somehow works as both a statement and a neutral—stylish, but easy to mix and match with any cover-up, hat, or sandal I throw on. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure I've tried all kinds of beach cover-ups over the years, but I keep coming back to a button-down style for versatility. A shirtdress-style cover-up works as a top layer over a swimsuit, but it can also double as an actual outfit—whether I'm grabbing lunch, walking through town, or heading through the hotel lobby. I love that I can throw one on and instantly feel put together, even if I'm still wearing a bathing suit underneath. This version is lightweight and breathable, but still has a nice texture that elevates it from the usual beachwear. The longer length offers great coverage, and the relaxed silhouette makes it super easy to wear. Dress it up with jewelry and sandals or keep it casual with flip-flops and a beach tote—it works either way. Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure Credit: Travel + Leisure


Forbes
15-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Forbes
The Best Sunglasses For Men, According To Our Fashion Team
While sunglasses can make a strong style statement, they're essential for protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays. The best sunglasses for men have a comfortable yet lightweight design that doesn't pinch (especially around the temple and nose bridge) and offers UV protection. After extensive research, our top pick is Ray-Ban's Justin Rectangular Sunglasses, a wayfarer-inspired option with polarized lenses. We also recommend Raen's Adin Square Sunglasses for its style appeal and Warby Parker's Fletcher Sunglasses if you need a prescription pair. Not all sunglasses are polarized, so depending on where you wear your shades, it's a worthwhile feature to look for. Polarized lenses help reduce glare and enhance visibility, which is especially useful for driving or outdoor activities. Other important considerations include the fit, materials, style and price. Ahead, all the best sunglasses for men according to our fashion team. Materials: Injected (plastic) | Polarized: Yes | Color options: 28 total, including Matte Rubber Black and Matte Brown These shades are reminiscent of the classic wayfarer sunglasses, but with slightly larger lenses for a cool and modern feel. The rectangular shape looks good on just about every face shape, and the plastic construction has a substantial weight that doesn't feel flimsy or breakable. We also appreciate the wide range of color options to choose from. Materials: Acetate | Polarized: Yes | Color options: 5 total, including Black and Emerald Green If you don't want to spend a fortune on your sunglasses, consider this wearable style with softened square edges. They're crafted from acetate, a plant-based plastic with a lightweight feel, a popular material many brands use. The polarized lenses are also shatter-proof to enhance their durability. If you're looking for something a bit more fashion-forward, try the Aviator One-Bridge Modern Square Sunglasses or the Double-Bridge Rectangular Men's Sunglasses. Materials: Acetate | Polarized: Yes | Color options: 3 total, including Black Gloss/Antique Pewter and Tortoise/Antique Gold Maui Jim's Kawika Polarized Sunglasses are a popular choice whether you're hitting the golf driving range or heading to lunch with friends. Polarized lenses, which are treated with a special coating or film to block a specific type of light, reduce glare and enhance visibility, making it easier to see during outdoor activities. They're comfortable too, thanks to the nose pads and spring hinges. Raen has a wide selection of stylish sunglasses under $250, including this pair with a flat brow and wide, rectangular lenses. The brand's sunglasses are made from durable zyl acetate and have five-barrel hinges with reinforced temples. Plus, the polarized lenses give you 100% UVA/UVB protection. If you prefer a more rounded shape, we recommend the Alvez. Materials: Acetate-metal | Polarized: No | Color options: 6 frame colors (including clear brown, tortoise and black) and 8 lens colors (including gray, brown and emerald) Eliminate the hassle of switching between regular frames and sunglasses with Transitions Gen S lenses from Eyebuydirect. Pick from a variety of stylish frames (including the retro-inspired, full-rim Vinyl Glasses), select your lens usage and add the 'Transitions Gen S' option during checkout. These lenses respond quickly to light—darkening within seconds once you step outside—and are designed to block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. They also filter blue light to help protect your eyes from extended screen use. Choose from six frame colors and eight lens colors as well as both prescription and non-prescription lenses. Materials: Hand-polished cellulose acetate | Polarized: Yes | Color options: 4 total, including Antique Shale Fade and Crystal Warby Parker is a well-known brand that manufactures eyeglasses and sunglasses starting at $95. We're big fans of this style if you're looking for prescription sunglasses (or any other lens customization); choose from single-vision, progressives or readers. Keep in mind that the price increases with the more customizations you add. Materials: O Matter (a proprietary, nylon-based material) | Polarized: Yes | Color options: 10 total, including Matte Black and Matte Clear Oakley is known for its performance sunglasses that stay put through rigorous exercise, and this pair has been 'tested under extreme high mass and high velocity circumstances,' according to the brand. This wrap-around style has angular lenses that you can customize based on your preferences (for example, you can add prescription lenses or the brand's Prizm lenses for better contrast). Another bonus? Replacement lenses are available for specific designs in case they get damaged or scratched. Materials: Acetate | Polarized: Yes | Color options: 8 total, including Grant Tortoise and Dusty Aqua Oliver Peoples is a Los Angeles-based eyewear brand specializing in timeless designs that draw inspiration from film, art and music. The branding is discreet, and the styles feel sophisticated yet cool—the Cary Grant Sun is no exception. As the name suggests, the frame is a modern take on the shades worn by the actor in North by Northwest. Choose from two sizes, and a virtual try-on tool can help you visualize the frames before you purchase them. The Forbes Vetted team has researched, written and published dozens of eyewear stories, including roundups of the best prescription sunglasses and best glasses for men. To find the best sunglasses for men, we considered several factors: material, style, color options, lens type and price. When choosing sunglasses, many guys want to know which pairs will be most flattering on their face. Neutral-colored glasses are easy to pair with anything in your wardrobe, and won't go out of style. However, if you tend to wear brighter colors and want sunglasses to match, don't be timid about buying frames in a vivid color. You can also use your skin tone and undertones to determine which pairs complement your complexion the most. Aside from the color and style, here's what else to look for. Sunglasses usually come in a variety of sizes and shapes. To figure out the right size for your face, look at the lens width (the diameter of one lens), the width of the bridge (the connecting piece between the two lenses) and the temple length (the length of the entire temple arm). A helpful trick is to find a pair of glasses that you already own—and that fit you well—and measure them to have something to use as a guide. When it comes to shapes, an old general rule of thumb is to choose frames opposite your face shape to balance out proportions. For example, square glasses complement a round face, while round glasses look good on square faces. The easiest way to see if a particular size and shape flatter your face is to try them on in person. If you can't do this, certain brands (such as Raen, Roka and Warby Parker) have a virtual try-on feature to help you visualize the final look. Most frames are made from acetate, a plant-based plastic with a lightweight feel. Metal (aluminum, titanium and stainless steel are the most common) and nylon are other popular frame materials. For added durability, look for high-quality hardware, like stainless steel. The glasses should open and close easily without resistance. Many frames also have silicone nose pads to prevent slipping and relieve pressure. Sunglasses don't have to be polarized to be effective, but this lens treatment can help reduce glare and enhance visibility, especially when driving. Note: Polarized lenses are not the same as UV-blocking lenses. When selecting your glasses online or in-person, polarization might be a separate add-on that costs more (Warby Parker charges an extra $50, for example). Look for sunglasses made from acetate, metal or nylon with durable metal hinges. When trying on pairs, the frames should feel sturdy and have a substantial weight; you can tell immediately if the frames are thin and flimsy. The temples should also open and close without resistance, and shouldn't pinch the side of your head when you try them on. Additionally, look for lenses with 100% UV protection to protect your eyes from the sun's harmful rays. Choose sunglasses with 100% UV protection or UV400 for the highest level of protection. This feature should be noted in the product description if you're shopping online. Some of the most popular sunglass brands for men include Ray-Ban, Warby Parker and Oakley. However, all the brands in this guide are known for their comfortable, stylish and high-quality designs.


New Indian Express
03-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New Indian Express
Mamazaki Magic in Hyderabad
For this special pop-up at Raen, Chef Farha brought along an impressive 77 kg of ingredients from the North East, including rare and distinctive items. 'I wanted people here to experience authentic flavours. I brought Kazi lemon, an aromatic citrus from Assam; smoked and fresh king chillies; condiments made from regional ingredients; Burmese coriander oil; Joha rice — a GI-tagged aromatic rice; sticky rice from Assam; hot honey infused with king chilli; and wild citrus often used in Mizo cuisine,' she shares. The menu she's curated is both elaborate and deeply personal. Speaking about her favourite dishes, Chef Farha says, 'Every item on this menu is close to my heart. I remember curating it during a train journey from my hometown to Guwahati — no network, just music, and a head full of ideas. The Dachi Dumplings are inspired by my time working with WWF in Arunachal Pradesh, where juicy momos are popular. I combined these with Datshi sauce — a Bhutanese cheese sauce usually eaten with rice — to create a unique fusion. The Joha Arancini Ball is another standout. It's based on the subtly spiced Joha rice pulao from Assam, transformed into an arancini with green chilies for a kick. Among desserts, the Hando Guri with Saah is special. It's inspired by an Assamese breakfast of chai and roasted rice flour, which I turned into a dessert with chai reduction, mascarpone cream, candied ginger, and sesame brittle. Another nostalgic dish is the Bihu Jolpan Dessert, inspired by traditional Bihu morning fare — yoghurt, cream, flattened rice, and black sesame. I re-imagined it with baked yoghurt, mango-jaggery syrup, black sesame oil, toasted coconut, and puffed rice crackers. Finally, the Omita Khar Soup is a take on the Assamese dish made with an alkaline solution from banana stem ash. Traditionally eaten with rice, I've converted it into a warm, comforting soup.' Speaking about her experience in Hyderabad, Chef Farha adds, 'This is my fourth time in the city, and I've been consulting chef for two upcoming restaurants that are focused on North Eastern cuisine since last July. I absolutely love dosa, chutneys, sambar, and of course, Hyderabadi Biryani. The food culture here is vibrant, and it's always fulfilling when people enjoy and appreciate the food I create.'


The Hindu
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
From Assam to Arunachal: Flavours of the Northeast arrive in Hyderabad
Kaji nemu with komola roxh sherbet (Assamese lemon with orange juice), wheels of orange, pickled radish on a bed of hung curd, finished with a drizzle of bhut jolokia honey, a scattering of nuts, and crackling dry-roasted black rice. Then comes the famous Assamese khar, but reimagined as a soup. Raen, the chef's studio at The Leela Hyderabad, is offering a vibrant bouquet of flavours from the Northeast through a pop-up titled Mamazaki, curated by Farha Naaz, an independent chef from Guwahati. Farha, a self-taught chef and top 20 participant in MasterChef India Season 8, brings together contrasting textures and ingredients to create what she calls a 'flavour bomb.' But do not expect the usual suspects — no smoked pork, akhuni, or bamboo shoot preparations here. And no, not even the beloved alu pitika. 'These dishes and ingredients are close to my heart,' she confirms. 'However, I'm here to show what else the region offers —how we can use our ingredients to explore new pairings and presentations. This is Northeast food with a fresh twist.' And why the shift from the expected? 'Food from the Northeast has a bold taste and aroma, which can be overwhelming for some. I'm a chef by choice, but an agricultural engineer by training, with a specialisation in food preservation,' she explains. 'My approach is to start mild, start slow — like a flirtatious meeting. Once the flavours settle in, people are hooked. That's when their curiosity kicks in.' Farha's signature orange blossom salad was followed by a prawn and pear salad. Then came the omita khar — a traditional Assamese papaya khar — served as a soup. As an Assamese myself, I was both curious and ready to pass a mildly judgemental remark. As the team plated the soup, I noticed all the classic elements were there, including the distinctive hint of ginger, which is usually reserved as a garnish. When the bowl finally arrived, I took a spoonful and it tasted exactly like the omita khar my mother makes at home. A comforting flavour. The sautéed masur dal sprinkled on top added the right bite to balance the runny consistency. My only gripe was the temperature. It could have done with a few more degrees of warmth to truly hit the spot. When she is not curating pop-ups across cities, Farha keeps busy with menu development, recipe consultation, and culinary collaborations for restaurants around the country. Farha's culinary research has also led her to explore the cuisine of the Monpa community in Arunachal Pradesh. 'It was a WWF project where I trained a group of women in traditional Monpa cooking. The cuisine relies heavily on foraged herbs, local greens, and fruits. It was a challenge, given the limited reference material available,' she explains. What makes Farha's food stand out is not just the play of ingredients, but the thoughtful attention to how people in the Northeast consume staples like rice, meat, and fish. Think pani pitha (rice crepes) with a choice of chicken or duck, or a warming datsi soup with dumplings — both must-tries on her menu. A particularly clever touch is her use of slow-roasted black rice (korai bhaja) as a garnish, which introduced Hyderabad diners to the Northeast's version of a homemade breakfast cereal. 'The surprise on everyone's faces when they learned it was roasted crispy rice was worth the effort,' she smiles. The fiery bhut jolokia makes frequent appearances, both as honey and a sriracha-style sauce. 'It was fun watching people fight the heat but not give up. The honey really acts as the catalyst,' she adds. Another standout condiment was the saw tooth coriander oil. While bhut jolokia is often reduced to its title as one of the world's hottest peppers, Farha believes it deserves better. 'That's old news,' she says. 'I see it as a hero ingredient for sauces, oils, and dips — it's far more approachable that way.' Since it's Bohag (spring) in Assam, she has rounded off the pop-up with a traditional Bihu jolpan (breakfast) reimagined as dessert. It includes all the classics: doi (curd), muri (puffed rice), along with elements from Bihu pithas like narikolor laru (coconut laddoo) and til pitha (a rice flour roll filled with sesame and jaggery). No Assamese menu is complete without a nod to tea. The second dessert is a tribute to the state's most common cereal pairing — xandoh guri and saah (roasted rice powder with tea). Reimagined in a modern avatar, the dish invites diners to engage with Assam's everyday ingredients in new ways. The fest is on till May 2 at Raen test kitchen, The Leela Hyderabad.