The Royal Horticultural Society has announced plans to hold a new urban show in Central Manchester. From April 18-21, 2024
By Amit RoySep 02, 2023
THE Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) recognises that it has become difficult for young people to own their own homes – which is why it is holding a show devoted to indoor plants.
Those with access to outdoor gardens during the pandemic lockdowns were lucky, but others who own or rent apartments can also enjoy a touch of greenery in their living environments.
The RHS points out: “Even if you don’t have an outdoor space, you can still enjoy gardening. Growing indoors opens up new opportunities for exotic or tender plants, and houseplants can bring health benefits.
“From beautiful contemporary hanging displays to traditional terracotta pots, there are hundreds of inventive ways to grow and display houseplants.”
The RHS has announced plans to hold a new urban show in Central Manchester. From April 18-21, 2024, the RHS will transform the city’s historic former railway station, Depot Mayfield, into an urban grower’s paradise. It will be full of small space gardening inspiration to encourage and inspire city dwellers to grow plants for both their indoor and outside spaces.
The Manchester event will be different to the RHS’s current roster of flower shows, with an industrial, indoor, city centre location and immersive experience designed for those who live in cities with limited or no outdoor growing space.
There are several species of plants that are suitable to be grown indoors, experts explain
While urban growing will be at the heart of the show, the influence horticulture has on interior design, art, wellness and sustainability will also be explored. There will be innovative gardening features with design inspiration for small city spaces – such as vertical gardening and urban farming – along with immersive plant installations, a host of talks, advice and practical workshops, as well as a curated selection of plant nurseries selling a variety of houseplants and small-space-friendly plants.
Helena Pettit, the director of gardens and shows at RHS, said: “In recent years there’s been a real gardening boom, and we believe more young people living in cities are now growing plants.
“So, we are so excited to be bringing a new RHS show dedicated to urban gardening to the centre of Manchester next year. The RHS urban show aims to bring gardening to a new audience and demonstrate that if you have plants, you are a gardener.
“There is so much great work already happening across the city to make it greener, and we are excited to help support this growing movement. We want to get even more people living in the UK’s second largest city inspired to grow plants and connect to the natural world. With over 80 per cent of the UK population living in towns and cities, the new show will enable more urban dwellers to garden, especially where access to green spaces can be limited.”
As part of the RHS strategy to 2030 launched earlier this year, “one priority is to open up gardening for anyone, anywhere. The new RHS urban show is one of the ways in which the RHS hopes to do this.”
Among British Asians there has been an interest in gardening, but this appears to have gone up since the RHS and Eastern Eye collaborated to show a “garden of unity” at the Chelsea Flower Show in May this year.
According to one newspaper report, “houseplants aren’t just a way to make your home look better. A science paper makes the point that some of the most popular pot plants can also have a positive impact on the quality of the air”. Research by the University of Birmingham and the RHS found that in a small, poorly ventilated office measuring about 15 cubic metres, just five small plants reduced levels of the common air pollutant nitrogen dioxide by as much as 20 per cent.
The researchers tested low-maintenance, inexpensive houseplants that are commonly found in UK homes – the peace lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii), corn plant (Dracaena fragrans) and ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) – by putting them into test chambers containing levels of NO2 [nitrogen dioxide] comparable to those in an office next to a busy road. An hour later, each species of plant had removed about half the NO2 in its chamber.
Exposure to high concentrations of NO2, which gets into the air when fossil fuels are burned, can aggravate respiratory diseases, particularly asthma.
Jane Perrone, an expert who presents the houseplant podcast On the Ledge, said: “Those plants are all easy to look after, although the peace lily will wilt dramatically if it doesn’t have enough water. I often give the ZZ plant to people who claim they kill plants because it is super tough and adaptable to different conditions. So that’s a good one to choose if you are starting out.”
Perrone said a lot of people buy their houseplants from supermarkets or the big box DIY stores because they tend to be cheapest there.
But this is a false economy, she said, because people could end up with a plant that hasn’t been looked after particularly well and wasn’t worth buying. “If a plant has been sitting around for a while, sometimes it could be already stressed and damaged. So when you get it home, it starts to show signs of that stress.”
She suggests it is best to buy from a more specialist grower, such as a houseplant shop or a garden centre, “where there’s actually somebody who’s paid to look after the houseplants while they’re sitting there”.
Online specialist plant shops that provide lots of detailed information about what they are selling and their living requirements are also worth considering, she added, although “a lot is dependent on the packaging and the courier the website uses”.
Perrone said many people who struggle to keep their plants alive often massively underestimate how much light all plants need: “No plant is going to be happy long term in the darkest corner of the room.”
When people first take a plant home, they must bear in mind that even if it is a variety that can thrive in the shade, it may struggle at first in a dark spot if it has become accustomed to sunnier conditions.
“Don’t think you can bring a plant home, put it on a shelf and not look at it for a month. If you’re new to houseplants, observation is really key,” Perrone said.
People may need to move plants around in different seasons or repot them as they grow, so while it’s worth investing in the plant itself, they should avoid spending a fortune on beautiful ceramic pots.
“They’re always the wrong size for the next plant you get. I buy all my pots in charity shops and repurpose things like salad bowls and casserole dishes,” she said.
When choosing a plant in person, avoid those which have yellow or brown leaves and possible, take the plant out of its pot and sneak a peek at its roots, the RHS horticulture expert, Leigh Hunt, said.
“What you’re looking for, outside the root ball, is a little trail of small white roots. That would indicate it’s nice and healthy,” he said. “If it’s been overwatered, those roots will be rotten and brown.”
Too much watering – or too little – are problems that many houseplant killers have to overcome.
“People often ask, ‘how many times a week should I water?’” Hunt said. “And it’s really impossible to say because every plant is different – it grows at different rates, in different temperatures, light conditions and seasons … My general advice is push your finger into the compost. If that feels moist, or indeed wet, then don’t water it. If it starts to feel slightly dry, water it well.”
Lauren Sánchez didn’t need a red carpet to mark her pre-wedding celebration, just a close circle of friends and the charm of Paris. Days before tying the knot with Jeff Bezos, the former TV anchor turned aviation entrepreneur spent a laid-back but lavish weekend in the French capital with a dozen women she calls her pillars of strength.
The guest list was anything but ordinary. Kim Kardashian, Kris Jenner, Katy Perry, Eva Longoria, and a few other familiar faces from business, entertainment, and media joined Sánchez for what looked like a celebration of sisterhood rather than a spectacle. Over the course of two days, the group dined at chic spots like Lafayette’s and cruised through the city on a private boat, all while keeping things relatively low-key by celebrity standards.
From clinking espresso martinis to dancing to Earth, Wind & Fire, the vibe was expensive, chill, and relaxed. The celebration wrapped with a surprise vanilla meringue cake and laughter under the Paris sky.
Sánchez shared heartfelt moments on Instagram, calling her friends “the women who’ve lifted me up and shaped my heart.” The photos, mostly in black and white, showed candid rooftop laughs and cosy robe moments, far from the polished party shots one might expect.
Inside Lauren Sánchez’s Paris bachelorette Instagram/laurenwsanchez
Her outfit choices, too, while expensive, leaned into romantic minimalism. A short white Oscar de la Renta dress with 3D florals and a vintage pink Chanel bag added soft glamour to the weekend.
Heartfelt moments and low-key glam defined Sánchez’s pre-wedding celebration in Paris Instagram/laurenwsanchez
Sánchez and Bezos, who went public in 2019, got engaged in 2023 on board his yacht Koru, where he proposed with a rare 20-carat pink diamond worth approximately £15 million (₹160 crore). Their wedding is expected in June on the coast of Venice, Italy, although they’ve been tight-lipped about the specifics. Italian officials have already reassured locals that the ceremony will not disrupt the city.
A candid moment with Sánchez and her closest friendsInstagram/laurenwsanchez
Beyond the headlines and designer outfits, Sánchez’s celebration in Paris was about a woman pausing to honour the relationships that helped her grow, before stepping into a new chapter as Mrs. Bezos.
Ever walked into a cinema, popcorn in hand, all hyped for a big new Hindi release – only to realise, halfway through, that you have seen the exact same story before, just in another language? That weird sense of déjà vu has become all too familiar for Bollywood audiences in recent years, with one remake after another. Many are based on South Indian hits.
From Vikram Vedha to Shehzada, Bholaa to Selfiee, Bollywood seems to be treating South Indian blockbusters like a catalogue to borrow from. But here is the problem – most of them did not work. Not just with critics, but at the box office too. Which raises the obvious question: if the originals were such big hits, why can’t the Hindi versions strike gold?
The numbers do not lie Let us look at the figures.
The Tamil film Vikram Vedha (2017) was made on a budget of £103,695 (₹11 million) and earned £5.66 million (₹600 million). It had strong writing, originality, and standout performances. The 2022 Hindi remake starring Hrithik Roshan and Saif Ali Khan, despite slick production, was a costly misfire.
Bholaa, a remake of Kaithi, leaned too heavily on visual effects and forgot the raw, gritty storytelling that made the original shine. Made for £8.8 million (₹1 billion), it only grossed £9.7 million (₹1.1 billion) worldwide. Compare that with Kaithi, made for £2.2 million (₹250 million), which earned over £9.3 million (₹1.05 billion) – without big stars or CGI. This pattern keeps repeating itself.
Selfiee, based on Malayalam hit Driving Licence, flopped. Shehzada tried to replicate the success of Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo and failed miserably. Sarfira, based on Soorarai Pottru, came and went without impact. Even Baby John (a version of Theri) and Deva (inspired by Mumbai Police) could not turn strong originals into Hindi box office hits.
Ajay Devgn in Bholaa
Star power is not enough These numbers paint a clear picture: the remakes are not connecting. But what about star power? Salman Khan, Akshay Kumar, Shahid Kapoor, Hrithik Roshan, Kartik Aaryan – surely such big names should guarantee success? Unfortunately, it is not that simple anymore.
Audiences are smarter now. Thanks to streaming platforms, dubbed versions and social media buzz, many have already seen the originals – or at least know the storyline. So when the Hindi version arrives, it often feels stale.
Hrithik Roshan in Vikram Vedha
What is missing from the remakes? Successful films rely on many elements – chemistry between the leads, emotional tone, pacing – things you cannot script or transplant.
Take Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa. The chemistry between Silambarasan TR and Trisha felt electric, rooted in the film’s deeply emotional story of unrequited love. The Hindi remake Ekk Deewana Tha, with Prateik Babbar and Amy Jackson, lacked that connection.
Okkadu had raw energy, with Mahesh Babu anchoring the emotional weight. Ghilli, its Tamil counterpart, had similar intensity with Vijay’s charismatic presence and high-octane action. But the Hindi version Tevar lacked the same punch and raw emotion.
Similarly, Theri worked because of Vijay’s stardom, Atlee’s direction, and its emotionally driven story. Baby John has not captured that same feeling.
Mahesh Babu in Okkadu
Audiences want originality Here is the real kicker – audiences are not rejecting South Indian cinema. In fact, they are embracing it. Baahubali 2, the Pushpa and KGF franchises, RRR, Kantara – all became massive pan-India hits. The appetite for regional content is real.
What people are rejecting is lazy filmmaking – the idea that simply changing the language, inflating the budget, and casting a big Bollywood name is enough.
What works today is originality. Films like 12th Fail and Article 15 resonated because they told new stories. Even blockbusters like Pathaan and Jawan succeeded by playing to their own strengths – not copying someone else’s.
RRR
A call for change So what should Bollywood do? The answer is simple: focus on originality.
Stop leaning on South Indian remakes. Start backing fresh, innovative stories that speak to today’s diverse audience. The success of South Indian films lies in their ability to connect emotionally, to create real characters and tell untold stories. Bollywood needs to find that magic again.
In the end, remakes may seem like a safe bet – but they are not always the solution. Why settle for déjà vu when you can create something unforgettable?
The audience has evolved. Maybe now, it is time the industry asked itself: has it?X: @GeorgeViews
On Sunday, 25 May, music lovers in Middlesex and beyond will have the rare opportunity to experience an unforgettable evening with the legendary Anup Jalota at the Beck Theatre, Hayes. Known as the “Bhajan Samrat” (Emperor of Bhajans), Anup Jalota is a celebrated Indian singer and musician famed for his soul-stirring bhajans and ghazals that have touched millions worldwide. This culturally rich concert promises to bring the spiritual and poetic essence of Indian devotional music to life, right in the heart of Middlesex.
Whether you are deeply connected to Indian classical and devotional music or simply curious to explore a new musical tradition, this concert offers a perfect blend of spirituality, art, and heartfelt emotion. Held at the well-regarded Beck Theatre on Grange Road, this event is expected to draw a diverse audience eager to witness Anup Jalota’s mesmerizing performance.
Anup Jalota has been a towering figure in Indian music for over four decades. His unique ability to fuse the spiritual with the musical has earned him immense respect and a devoted fanbase not just in India, but internationally. Known for his deep, soothing voice and flawless diction, Jalota’s bhajans invoke a sense of peace and devotion, making them timeless classics.
In addition to bhajans, Anup Jalota is renowned for his ghazal renditions – poetic songs that express love, longing, and life's philosophical musings. His mastery in delivering both these forms of music with emotion and authenticity is unmatched. Audiences attending the Beck Theatre concert can expect to be transported through a variety of moods, from serene devotion to contemplative reflection.
The concert promises to be a carefully curated showcase of some of Anup Jalota’s most beloved bhajans and ghazals, as well as a few surprises for fans. The Beck Theatre, with its excellent acoustics and intimate setting, will provide the perfect atmosphere for a close connection between the artist and his audience.
Attendees can look forward to an evening filled with spiritual melodies and poetic beauty that celebrate Indian heritage and music traditions. It’s an ideal occasion for families, music enthusiasts, and anyone interested in experiencing a slice of India’s rich cultural tapestry.
The Beck Theatre is located at Grange Road, Hayes, Middlesex UB3 2UE. It is easily accessible by public transport and offers ample parking facilities nearby.
Tickets for this much-awaited concert are available on the Beck Theatre’s official website at www.becktheatre.org.uk. Given the popularity of Anup Jalota’s performances, early booking is strongly recommended to avoid disappointment.
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Ananya Panday gets candid about body shaming on Lilly Singh’s podcast
Ananya Panday is no stranger to the spotlight, but she’s also tired of being stuck under a microscope. In a recent chat with Lilly Singh on her podcast Shame Less, the actor spoke honestly about the constant criticism of her body and the double standards women face in the film industry.
Ananya recalled the early days of her career when, at 18, she was mocked for being too thin. Terms like “chicken legs” and “matchstick” were thrown at her regularly. “They said I had no boobs, no butt, like a flat-screen,” she shared. Fast forward a few years, and as her body naturally changed, new rumours popped up, but this time accusing her of undergoing cosmetic surgery. “Now they say I’ve had my butt done. You can never win,” she said.
What hits harder for Ananya is that this scrutiny often comes from other women. “The harshest comments I get are from women. I rarely see this happening to male actors,” she said, pointing out the gender gap in how public figures are judged.
But Ananya doesn’t shy away from taking responsibility either. She admitted that Bollywood films, including some of her own, have pushed unrealistic beauty ideals. “We’ve shown women waking up with perfect hair and makeup. That’s not real life. I’ve been part of that narrative, and I’m trying to be more aware of it now,” she said. Off camera, she tries to keep things real, reminding her followers that what they see on screen isn’t always the truth.
This honesty is, in fact, a shift in Ananya’s journey, from someone who once felt pressured to fit in, to an actor willing to question the norms she’s grown up with. Her recent work also reflects that change. From light-hearted romances to more grounded roles like her turn as a lawyer in Kesari: Chapter 2, Ananya is clearly making deliberate choices.
Women in the public eye are constantly judged, but it’s time to break that cycle. “If I talk about it, maybe one other girl will feel less alone,” she said. That, perhaps, is the quiet power behind her loudest statement yet.
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Remaining matches will be held at six venues, with Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Dharamsala removed from the schedule.
The Indian Premier League resumes on Saturday, eight days after it was suspended due to escalating tensions along the India-Pakistan border.
Most foreign players who left the country after the suspension have now returned. The tournament was halted on May 8 during a match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala, which was stopped after 10.1 overs when rockets landed 80km away. That game will now be played on 24 May in Jaipur.
Remaining matches will be held at six venues, with Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Dharamsala removed from the schedule.
The Pakistan Super League also restarts on Saturday. It had considered relocating to the UAE before suspension. Its final is now on 25 May, with matches limited to Rawalpindi and Lahore. Only Multan has lost hosting rights.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru will face Kolkata Knight Riders in the first of 13 remaining IPL league games, followed by playoffs from 29 May and the final on 3 June.
The revised IPL schedule overlaps with England’s ODI series against West Indies starting 29 May. Cricket West Indies released Sherfane Rutherford and Romario Shepherd to remain in India. Some players, including Mitchell Starc and Sam Curran, have opted not to return. Temporary replacements are allowed.