Chocolate-making
“Making chocolates is now turning into a sweet hobby. Contrary to popular belief, this art form is easy to learn and can be mastered in just a couple of classes,” says Saritha M, who teaches her students how to make chocolates and other handmade goodies. There is no specific age limit to learn this craft. Anybody from ages eight to 62 can make decent chocolates after their first few classes. The creativity knows no bounds, as these yummy treats can be made in a multiple combination of flavours.
Kerala mural painting
If you are the arty kind, Kerala mural paintings may interest you. These paintings depict stories and legends of ancient India dating back to the ninth century. Manjula Ramshankar, an art instructor, says, “This unique skill can be used in interior designing to add a traditional touch to the walls of your house. It generally takes three to six months to master the art. These are different from other paintings because they involve specific techniques like the use of ceramic powder on canvas.”
Hula hooping
Hula-hooping, which until recently was considered a child’s play, is now a popular fitness regime and dance form. Gunjan Saraf, a fitness expert, says, “Hooping is not as difficult a physical activity as people generally think. When the right size of hoop is used, it can be a fun activity for anyone, within the age group of six and 70. It can help tone muscles in your thighs, hips, legs, knees, arms and abdomen. This workout also strengthens spine and increases flexibility.”
Aqua zumba
Bored of the usual workouts? Then it’s time to try the Aqua zumba — a workout that integrates the zumba formula and philosophy into traditional aqua fitness disciplines. “Working out in the water can be appealing to someone who likes zumba, but doesn’t want to sweat even after a high intensity workout. This fitness regime has a low impact on the body and is good for people with hip or knee problems. It can also help shed weight, keep blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases under control, and stay stress-free,” says Ankita Makraria, an aqua zumba fitness trainer.
Food photography
Food photography is gaining prominence among city folk, as food sellers strive to make their offerings look as visually appealing as possible in photographs. This is what Food photography is all about and if you have the love for food and photography, combine the two in your to-do list this summer and take up this course. Manish Gaur, a food photographer, says, “Your photography skills can be applied to making menu cards, public displays as well as for marketing. It can be the perfect vocation for people who like to capture what they love in a frame.”