Latest news with #Zen
TimesLIVE
9 hours ago
- Entertainment
- TimesLIVE
DJ C-Live Introduces Zen, a new chapter in sound, culture and soul
DJ C-Live is charting a new course and he's doing it with intention. The hip-hop radio pioneer, cultural curator and sonic storyteller has officially introduced Zen, a creative alias grounded in his middle name, Zenzele. The event will kick off on August 1 at Laparada in Melrose Arch, and will feature artists Mobi Dixon, Naked DJ, Zen, Uncool Angels and more. 'This alias isn't about leaving something behind,' says Zen. 'Zen has always been lurking in the background. It's about realignment. It's about returning to what truly resonates — sound, story, soul and self.' While DJ C-Live stands tall as a champion of hip-hop and urban culture, from his work on YFM and 5FM to TV stints on Voov TV, Club 808, and Channel O's The Mix Up, Zen will open up a deeper, more spiritual lane. With the new identity, Zen steps into the role of creative director, experience curator and movement builder. He aims to craft immersive projects that blend design, Afrocentric rhythm and soul Zen's official unveiling on August 1 marks the beginning of a new creative era.
Fashion Value Chain
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Fashion Value Chain
Elevate Rakhi with Zen Diamond's Bespoke Hampers for Him & Her
Celebrate Rakhi with Zen Diamond and elevate the timeless sibling bond through a fusion of tradition and modern elegance. This year, go beyond the usual with our specially curated hampers—one designed for him, another for her—each carefully composed to reflect personality, sentiment, and refined sophistication. For a truly personal touch, you can also create your own hamper, selecting pieces that resonate uniquely with your bond. Zen Diamond has crafted this to transform the customary ritual into a heartfelt, luxurious experience, these thoughtful selections make Rakhi more than just a festival—they create lasting memories. Rakhi Hamper for Him 25 Paise Coin Bracelet This bracelet is a beautiful fusion of nostalgia and elegance, showcasing an authentic 25‑paise Indian coin—a miniature time capsule of heritage and sentimental value. At its heart, a finely set natural diamond adds a modern sparkle to this vintage charm. Lightweight and wearable, this design transforms a simple relic into a wearable memory—where history and shine meet in perfect harmony. Zen Diamond Pen Meticulously crafted from fine precious metals, this pen exudes prestige and performance. Its barrel is enhanced with diamond-studded or finely engraved detailing, transforming a professional writing instrument into a statement of sophisticated taste. Thoughtfully designed, it also features a built-in stylus and an LED light, adding a modern touch to its classic elegance. Blending luxury with functionality, this executive pen is the perfect fusion of refinement, craftsmanship, and style. Zen Diamond Ties Available in a variety of colours and designs, this tie is elegantly detailed with a diamond accent, combining refined style with symbolic sparkle. It's an ideal Rakhi gift for your brother—elevating a thoughtful tradition with understated luxury. Zen Diamond Perfume for Men A sophisticated blend of citrus, florals, spices, and warm woods, these fragrances — Sapphire, Diamond, Emerald, and Ruby — are crafted to leave a lasting impression: fresh, refined, and distinctly masculine. Also available in quantities of 100ml. Rakhi Hamper for Her 2 paise Coin Bracelet A delicate accessory that reinterprets vintage charm for the contemporary woman. Featuring an original 2 paise coin with a natural diamond embedded at its heart, this stylish keepsake is adorned with subtle floral accents that enhance its nostalgic appeal. Perfect as a Rakhi for Her, it carries quiet emotion, enduring sparkle, and timeless sentiment. Zen Diamond Perfume for Women From sparkling citrus to rich florals and warm base notes, these fragrances are layered and luxurious. Each scent — Sapphire, Diamond, Emerald, and Ruby — is designed to capture modern femininity in its many forms. Also available in quantities of 100ml. Zen Diamond Pendant Minimal yet impactful, this pendant is perfect for daily wear or layered styling. It embodies quiet luxury with its clean design, lasting elegance, and delicate rose gold detailing that adds a touch of warmth and sophistication to any ensemble. Zen Diamond Bracelet Sleek and versatile, this bracelet channels effortless sophistication—ideal for everyday wear or refined stacking—and makes for a meaningful Rakhi gift that blends style with sentiment. Available in multiple colours to resonate with your unique personality, the bracelet also features adjustable loops on the band to ensure a comfortable fit across different wrist sizes.
Independent Singapore
a day ago
- Business
- Independent Singapore
Glamour, gone? Why Singapore's fine dining scene is fizzling out, Michelin stars aren't enough anymore
SINGAPORE: Since its introduction in 2016, the Michelin Guide Singapore has garnered its fair share of praise and criticism. From bestowing Michelin stars on modest hawker kiosks in its initial year to the head-scratching deletion of stars from reputable names, the guide has constantly been a lightning rod for conversation and debate, but this year, the conversation is subdued — more like the gloomy purr of a lukewarm bowl of congee than the sizzling crackle of sambal. A dismal showing: Where's the fresh spark? According to a recent article from Peak Magazine, this year's Michelin grades land with a mediocre thump. Only two restaurants received a new star, both Japanese and hotel-based, and both similar in their visual appeal. This trifling appraisal comes despite a busy couple of years for Singapore's gastronomic scene, which has seen a surge of Latin American, Korean, and modern Singaporean (mod-Sin) cuisine. One would assume a bolder celebration of this multiplicity — instead, the Michelin Guide seems jammed on repeat. Unlike in the past editions of the Guide, it brought genuine enthusiasm, what with the pandemic-era promotion of Zen to three stars, the rise of new talents like Seroja's Kevin Wong, and a reliable stream of new one-star beneficiaries. Falling stars and the harsh reality of survival The 2025 edition of the Michelin Guide also carried more removals than add-ons. Ten restaurants fell from the one-star list, nine of which have shut their doors. The explanations were as real as they are heartbreaking: swelling operational outlays, changing consumer behaviours and preferences, and the ever-increasing call for affordability and value. Venues like Chef Kang's , Matera , and Shinji by Kanesaka (Bras Basah) are among those that were dropped. Others, like Rhubarb , turned to casual ideas just to survive. These closures expose a distressing reality — a Michelin star, once the gold standard of gastronomic commendation, is no longer an assurance of lasting achievement. As one honest chef puts it, 'Customers are more important than accolades — they are the ones who help keep your restaurant open.' While the Guide has dropped these names, it didn't fill the gaps. While there's no lack of worthy substitutions, such as Somma , Na Oh , Mustard Seed, and Peach Blossoms that are already making a buzz, they remain starless. Why the reluctance? Losing culinary edge in the region Setting aside Michelin stars, Singapore's dominance in the international dining arena is starting to wane. Known once as an important cooking hub in Southeast Asia, the Lion City is now overtaken by its neighbours. In the World's 50 Best Restaurants list, Odette remains Singapore's only restaurant included in the top 50. Meanwhile, Bangkok rushed ahead, boasting six entries on the 50 Best list, including innovators like Gaggan and Potong . Hong Kong, too, is shaking things up with fresher names like Wing ascending the ranks and amassing awards and praises. By contrast, Singapore continues to bank on the same gastronomic personalities it has depended on for more than ten years — Han Liguang, Malcolm Lee, and Jason Tan. While they deserved the praises and recognition, their sustained reign indicates a lack of revitalisation. While the next generation of chefs is imminent, they come in such a slow pace. Rising stars such as Nicolas Tam (Willow) and Seth Lai (Ce Soir) have gained recognition, but the tempo of change is lethargic. Why? Because the business environment makes it extremely difficult for young chefs to strike out on their own and carve their own path. The choice to support Notwithstanding the present headwinds, there is light on the horizon. Young local chefs with grit and innovation have emerged. Chef Marcus Leow's Belimbing is pushing mod-Sin cooking into stirring new terrain, while Law Jia-jun of Province is displaying Southeast Asian ingredients with a new, story-driven strategy. These chefs aren't pursuing international trends — they're tunneling deep into local uniqueness and history to produce food that feels unambiguously Singaporean. Yet, appreciation and recognition are not enough. What's required now is support — from Michelin, from the industry, and from customers themselves. If people continue to be swayed by imported publicity while snubbing home-based talent, the very essence and soul of Singapore's food scene will be lost. The Michelin Guide's examiners must plunge deeper and engage more evocatively with the local setting. However, the diners also have a role to play — to dine with purpose, interest, and devotion. To believe in Singapore' local chefs not because they have a star, but because they tell Singapore's story through food. After all, if Singaporeans don't champion their own culinary individuality, who will?
The Spinoff
2 days ago
- The Spinoff
A bock-by-block review of Cuba Street
Take a walk down Wellington's most colourful street with The Spinoff's Wellington editor Joel MacManus. From the bucket fountain to the rainbow crossing, Cuba Street is home to culture and controversy. While it's not that long – just 925m – each block offers a different flavour. Here's what to explore and expect on each one. Webb Street to Karo Drive This is the crunchy end of Cuba Street. If it were a person, it'd be your aunt with the flowy pants who smells like incense and loves yoga. Case in point: this is where you'll find The Nut Store, a brick-and-mortar retail store that only sells bags of gourmet nuts and magazines about growing nuts. Somehow it has been running for well over a decade. Across the road, you'll find Good Housekeeping, a sustainable homewares store. I've never bought anything there, but I like it because it smells nice. It's always worth stopping in at Thistle Hall, a community gallery with a constantly rotating display of art exhibitions and classes. They offer yoga, knitting and dance classes and are also home to a guitar society. The last time I visited, two Irish Mammies tried to feed me pumpkin soup, which I think was some form of performance art. Karo Drive to Abel Smith Street As you cross Karo Drive, you enter Cuba Street's chillout zone, a peaceful respite past the roar of State Highway 1 traffic, but before the busier high-foot-traffic areas. At Te Whare Manaaki o Toda, a community space associated with the Buddhist centre, you'll find a contemporary art gallery with displays usually themed around Zen and inner peace. Over the road, Heyday Beer is one of the best spots in town to sip a cold one and relax on a sunny day. If you're not in a rush, take your time perusing the Mary Potter Hospice Shop. Cuba Street is famous for its op shops. Mary Potter is the cheapest and has the widest selection. It's a classic charity shop with classic charity shop prices, racks of clothes, books, knick-knacks and assorted things. It's the kind of place where it's easy to lose track of time. Abel Smith Street to Vivian Street The third block of Cuba Street is a foodie's dream with a fantastic range of eateries from cheap street food spots to gourmet restaurants. If there's one cuisine you have to try on any visit to Wellington, it's Malaysian. Wellington has one of the strongest Malaysian food scenes outside the Asian continent. And that's not just a personal reckon. To learn more about how Wellington became a cornucopia of Malaysian food, read this story by Preyanka Gothanayagi. On this block, you'll find Satay Malaysia which topped The Spinoff's ranking of Wellington's roti canai combos. My favourite Malaysian spot for a sit-down dinner or small BYO is Rasa Malaysia (get the Murtabak). If you're not in the mood for Malaysian food, consider Wellington Seamarket for the freshest fish and chips in the city, Nolita for creamy vegan pasta, El Matador for tapas and steak, Ombra for classic Italian – or for a bougie dinner on the corporate card, check out Logan Brown or Liberty. Vivian Street to Ghuznee Street On the corner of Vivian Street there are two benches dedicated to icons of Wellington's Takatāpui Rainbow community, Chrissy Witoko and Carmen Rupe, who owned businesses and performed in clubs in this area when it was Wellington's red light district. It's a good idea to take a seat and rest your legs here, because there's plenty of exploring to do on this block. This is where you'll find the best range of second hand clothing stores: Frutti, Huha, Daddy Vintage, Tangent, Perfect Circle, Ziggurat, Hunters & Collectors, Comrades, and my personal favourite, Spacesuit. Music lovers can take their time picking through the boxes at Slow Boat Records and explore Flying Nun Record Store for the latest releases from great Kiwi bands. In the evening, make sure to catch a gig at San Fran – even better if it's someone you've never heard of before. You'll need some fuel for further thrifting, so make sure to check out Fred's, the sandwich hotspot that always seems to have lines out the door. Get caffeinated at Midnight Espresso, or wet your whistle at the Cuba Street Tavern. Ghuznee Street to Dixon Street When you think of Cuba Street, this is probably the bit that comes to mind. The main show. The pedestrian mall. My favourite thing to do on this block is to simply spend time on the street. Sit in the sun, watch the crowds go by, applaud a street performer, avoid the people handing out religious pamphlets, and weep at the majestic glory of the bucket fountain. The popularity of the pedestrian mall means some of the weirder shops have been priced out by chain stores, but there are plenty of interesting independent retailers. Check out Graphic for comic books and graphic novels, Wellington Apothecary for oils, candles and skincare, and Abstract Design for an eclectic selection of wall art and hanging decorations. Cuba Mall is an increasingly popular nightlife destination, particularly among punters who prefer a lively chat rather than a raging boogie down Courtenay Place. JJ Murphy & Co and Hotel Bristol are longstanding favourites for a classic pint and some pool. Loosies Superette, with its downstairs Saloon Bar, is a popular new hotspot. The Spinoff's food columnist Nick Iles described The Ram as his ' dream pub ' and in-the-know locals flock to Dee's Place, a tucked-away whiskey bar with no sign on the door. Left Bank A tributary tucked off to the side of Cuba Mall, Left Bank is a wondrous secret world which The Spinoff ranked as Wellington's best laneway. Gritty but artsy, private but distinctly urban, Left Bank is my favourite part of Cuba Street. The real star of Left Bank is Pegasus Books, which topped yet another Spinoff ranking; Wellington's best second-hand book stores. Pegasus Books is a work of mystery and mayhem, with an enormous trove of literature that spills out onto the street, shelves stacked so high that you need ladders to access half the books on offer, and a maze of a layout that seems to go on forever like a Tardis made of wood and paper. I stop in at Pegasus Books every time I'm in the area and end up buying something about 50% of the time. While you're exploring Left Bank, it's also worth checking out The Oatery, a cafe specialising in porridge and muesli. Cuba Street Social is possibly the coolest barbershop in Wellington, and I am absolutely obsessed with the Ethiopian cuisine at Mother of Coffee. Dixon Street to Manners Street At Dixon Street, you'll find Wellington's rainbow crossing, installed in 2018 as a symbol of support to the city's queer community – the green pedestrian crossing signal depicts Carmen Rupe strutting her stuff. Adjacent to the crossing is the aluminium sculpture Umbrella by Peter Kundycki. First installed on lower Cuba Street in 1990 and moved to this spot in 1997, it is a colourful reference to the city's high rainfall that has taken on greater meaning to the queer community as a symbol of shelter and protection. This block is pretty short and the real action here is on Dixon Street, which has experienced a hospo resurgence thanks to a new boardwalk and parklets (on-street carparks that have been converted to outdoor seating with grass and trees). Swimsuit Coffee has a strong claim to the highly contested title of Wellington's best coffee spot. Manners Street to Wakefield Street The standout businesses of Lower Cuba Street are not on the street itself but underground. Ivy Bar & Cabaret is a fun and fabulous queer bar where you can catch a drag show, a comedy gig, or dance the night away. Next door is R Bar, a fascinating underground rum bar that feels like a secret pirate lair, complete with skeletons, buried treasure and sea shanties. As you reach the end of Cuba Street, there's an important but unmarked historical site. On the left side of the street, near the Philanthropist's Stone sculpture, you'll find Bond Street. Down this laneway was the original meeting house of the Dorian Society, New Zealand's first homosexual organisation. Primarily a social club, it later formed a legal subcommittee that laid the groundwork for homosexual law reform in New Zealand. It's a site that speaks to everything that makes Cuba Street special. This is a street that stands at the forefront of change, embraces differences, and encourages people to stand out.
India Today
3 days ago
- India Today
China's Shaolin Temple chief faces probe over sex scandal, embezzlement
The head of China's Shaolin Temple, the famous Buddhist shrine specialising in martial art Kung Fu, was placed under probe for embezzlement and sexual misconduct, official media here reported on Sunday. Shi Yongxin, the abbot of the Shaolin Temple in Henan province, is suspected of criminal offences, including embezzling and misappropriating project funds and temple assets, state-run China Daily reported, quoting a notice posted on the temple's official abbot has seriously violated Buddhist precepts by maintaining improper relationships with multiple women over a long period and fathering illegitimate children, the report said. He is currently under joint investigation by multiple authorities. Relevant updates will be disclosed to the public in a timely manner, it in 495 AD, the temple is located in the foothills of Song Mountain in China's Henan province. It is associated with Chan Buddhism, also known as Zen, and is associated with Mahayana its historical and religious significance, it is a renowned centre for training in martial arts, attracting students from all over the temple is also a popular tourist destination.- Ends
