A few weeks ago Amit Malhotra, a property dealer from Ludhiana, startled the country when he spent a whopping Rs 15.5 lakh on a cell phone number. However, since a sizeable chunk of global wealth has now shifted to this part of the world, many more Indians are living like dollar millionaires, and spending serious money on luxury and the good life. According to recent statistics, India will have over 1,40,000 crorepatis by 2010. Already, superbly rich Indians are discerning when it comes to displaying wealth and style, whether it’s about the cars they drive or the brands they endorse. Taking a group of friends to Ibiza for a 50th birthday bash is no longer so unusual, nor is a limited edition watch that could cost over Rs 1 crore. We bring you a list of trends, accessories and acquisitions that are unapologetically extravagant. Conspicuous consumption is in. Frugality is out. 

A NEW BEST FRIEND
Adar Poonawalla, 26, an industrialist based in Pune has business interests in manufacturing and horse breeding (they have 400 horses on the family stud farm). So when he wanted to gift his wife Natasha a pet, Poonawalla ordered a miniature horse from Argentina, a rare breed called Fellabella, that costs Rs 1.5 lakh. Jumbo is 3-feet tall with a shiny, dark brown coat. He’s just a little larger than a big dog and stays in the family’s palatial home in Pune. Poonawalla says there are only five such genetically altered horses in India. The Fellabella costs Rs 10,000 to maintain per month. “It’s well worth it,” smiles Poonawalla.
— Shveta Vashisht Gaur

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