Ladies’ day out

Today is no less than an occasion — Women’s Day celebrating women’s progress throughout history, while hoping for a better future. And while the day calls for women’s achievements to be celebrated, the city is giving plenty of options for those looking to explore.

For the adventurous, Life Away From Life, a city-based adventure company has rolled out special packages for women.  “We have themed it as  anadventure day out for women because we want them to leave their daily schedule behind and try something different, at least for a day,” says Prateekdeo Gupta, owner of the venture. 

The event will start with rock climbing, and later proceed to kayaking. The uninitiated needn’t worry. For those shy of trying out something new, Prateek says untrained participants will be given step-by-step coaching before attempting these daring sports.

Heading this event is a 28-year-old woman Naama who is a professional drummer, tattoo artist, and a rock climber. “Women are multi-taskers; and it needs to be celebrated. Who said they can’t have it all?” questions Prateek.

For those who may find it difficult to squeeze in some me-time during the week, Life Away from Life is also organising an all-women’s night trek to Matheran — all under the company of the torch and stars. “This activity is all about finding your own path, much like every woman who is making it on her own,” says Prateek.

Breaking out of the mould may often call for polishing one’s self-defence skills. One such workshop in Eskay Resort, Borivali will cover the basics of self-defence in case of an emergency. For those who want to experiment with their fitness routine,  city-based Wandering Souls is making it a night to remember. Starting from Colaba and ending at Matunga, this midnight cycling trail is in a way, looking to question the traditional notions of access to public spaces.

Black truffle and asparagus fried rice by Hakkasan

“Mumbai is one of the few cities where women are safe in the night as much as they are during the day. Through this tour, we want to break the stereotypical notion of not letting women out in the night. The streets are their public space as much as it is a man’s,” rues Sai Singh, co-founder, Wandering Souls.

Joining in the spirit of celebration is 1441 Pizzeria offering a buy one get one free on all pizza orders. Experimenting is not limited to just food. Fantasie Fine Chocolates has created an edible chocolate lipstick. However, celebrating Women’s Day is also extended to culinary indulgences. A culinary master workshop by Hakkasan is on cards illustrating techniques of authentic Wok dishes. To be held in their kitchen with Chef Raymond Wong, this demonstration will teach the different and substitute ingredients you can use.

“There are certain techniques in making a wok dish — it is different from your regular stir-fry. I will start by telling participants about the local markets where they can find these ingredients. I will also teach them the right temperature and how to toss the elements,” smiles Raymond. At the end of this experimental workshop, patrons will be served tasting portions along with a glass of sparkling wine.

Well, if cycling and cooking is not your cup of tea, then nothing beats a lazy evening with a tub of popcorn watching a movie. 1018mb is putting up a special screening of Queen to celebrate the empowering women of India.

Women Self Defense Workshop, on March 10 at Eskay Resort, Borivali, 

(Mumbai Midnight Cycling-Women’s Special, on March 10 at ColabaNight trek to Matheran on March 10 and 1)