Entertainment, in my backyard

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For people looking to unwind, home — and more specifically, the backyard — seems to be the “it” place to be. An al fresco barbecue bash on one’s terrace garden, a few drinks sipped in the privacy of one’s living room after a long day at work, a brunch rustled up real quick or ordered in: People for whom the weekday offers no solace from stress are choosing to recharge themselves at home over the weekends instead of looking in the direction of a pub or café.

There’s a relishing of being in the confines of your own home, experiencing time rather than just spending it. This is especially true of people who live in the glare of publicity.
Design consultant Nisha Jamvwal likes nothing better than to relax in the privacy of her own backyard. “We live busy, roller-coaster lives and family picnics or dinner with friends in our backyard is the most energising way to unwind,” says Nisha. In Mumbai, where everybody is looking outside for entertainment, “the moments spent inside are truly special,” she points out, adding, “What I enjoy the most are Sunday cocktails when everyone’s relaxed.” In the age of concrete and crowds, Nisha thinks it’s amazing to be one with nature in the company of friends.
This is perhaps a normal response to the urban jungle closing in on us. Chef Willie takes his cooking outside his restaurants, organising barbeque parties on his terrace garden for 25-30 people on Sundays. “My fiancé and I host quite a few get-togethers on our terrace garden. I love watching the sunset with a glass of wine. On Sundays we have coffee sessions in the garden,” he says.
Some people are doing their best to ensure that their children stay in touch with nature. Eminent doctor Kamla Selvaraj has built a tree house in her garden for her grandchildren — and they couldn’t be happier about it. “I climb up myself too, and read a good book,” says Kamla.
The backyard is also the perfect spot for that healthy Sunday brunch. “We plan healthy brunches in our backyard with a few good friends. Everyone pitches in and it’s all about the salads and long conversations,” says fitness enthusiast Vesna.