Anything To Declare, Mr Verma?
The arrest of the Central Board of Excise & Customs chairman has revealed the rot that has set in the premier revenue- collection authority. An inside story of his assets, and rise to position of power. Plus: The sex and smuggling controversy arising from his dubious links with Uzbek nationals.

The Silk Route
The Customs played an active role in a smuggling racket by Uzbek couriers that could have compromised the nation's security.

Rites Of Passage Despite stringent internal controls, the CBEC is one of the most sullied departments in the country.

The Earth Citizen
The former United States president returns to India to share the sorrows of quake-hit Gujarat.

In Quest Of Numbers
There's a scramble for winning combinations, from caste-based alliances in Tamil Nadu to political pragmatism in Bengal and Assam.

Green And Bear It
The Delhi Government's complacency leads to a bumpy ride for commuters.

Free At Last
Removal of quantitative restrictions on all imports will transform the Indian market like never before.

METROSCAPE

LOOKING GLASS

DELHI
Exhibition

French/Dutch artist Ghislaine Aarsse Prins, who considerately prefers the initials GAP., has fully functional ateliers in both Delhi and Paris but it's the one in India that's kept her busy. Her multi-medium output over the past three years has included jewellery, drawing, lithography, etching, tapestry, even carpets. Her forte, however, remains oils-stark self-portraits, cautious architectural studies, geometric abstracts. Her visions of inverted yogis, are attempts to, as she says, join the "spirit and the body". Catch the exhibition of the 60-year-old artist at the India International Centre (Annexe) till April 13. Call (011) 4619431 for more details.

Restaurant

Restaurateur Ritu Dalmia says she want it to be something like what the Viennese call Gemutlichkeit ("cosiness"). Art Diva Cafe, at the red-brick Academy of Fine Arts & Literature near Siri Fort Auditorium, promoted as as a breezy haven for the contemplative artist-writer sorts, serves strong cappucino and complementary fare in a conservatory-styled atmosphere. Recommendations include Malaysian Laksa, the pitta bread sandwiches and an offbeat counter called Juice Bar with designer drinks like Aphrodisiac Juice (with carrot, ginger, watermelon celery) and Cleansing Juice. Meal for two costs Rs 500. Call (011) 6218522/5673.

MUMBAI
Bar

The newly opened Starboard Bar at the Taj Mahal offers a marine ambience of ship sculptures, deck-like railings, blue decor and great view of the Gateway of India and the harbour beyond. As for food and drinks, try their flavoured strawberry vodka or provocatively titled shots like Panty Remover and Quick Screw. Or bite into Cuban Whispers, a prawn preparation with tamarind dressing, and Under Sail-fried cheese and pitta with salad. Cocktails and snacks for two cost Rs 1,500-plus. Open from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and from 6:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. Call (022) 202-3366.

MetroScape

Rock Solid
Here's the big truth for those who doubted the band's durability: Deep Purple is still together--and after 33 years of full-detonation rocking.
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Looking Glass

Delhi Exhibition:
Ghislaine Aarsse Prins

Delhi Restaurant:
Art Diva Cafe

Mumbai Bar:
Starboard Bar