Advertisement
Home Blog Page 1594

The Game Changer

0

Sanjay Pinto talks to Richa Tilokani about his interesting journey from being a journalist to an advocate.

1. You were a pioneering journalist, now an author and an advocate. Tell us about your journey.

My career has witnessed a transition from color to black & white – TV to Law! My tryst with journalism began in school! The activist streak probably first surfaced through my Letters To The Editor which used to be published in the Indian Express – on issues of public interest. Not many would believe that I was a shy, reticent and yes, skinny lad in Don Bosco, Egmore! The real transformation took place at Loyola College, where I started & edited a students magazine – Loyola Herald and went on to become the President of the Loyola Debating Society, breaking a debating record set in 1974 by my own Principal Fr.Xavier Alphonse! Post Loyola, I joined the Dr.Ambedkar Govt Law College, where I emerged the National Debating Champion. But I was hell bent on joining the Indian Police Service (IPS) and wrote the Civil Services Exam twice in `95 and `96. I guess I had too many irons in the fire and didn’t clear it. I didn’t have a financial cushion to see through a gestation period that a legal career required. So I joined NDTV in `98. Over a decade and a half, I played two innings – as the Bureau Chief and Resident Editor of NDTV 24×7, which involved breaking news in South India (elections, the tsunami, sensational arrests, court trials, sting operations and so on) and as the Executive Editor of NDTV Hindu, which gave me an opportunity to head a channel editorially and anchor flagship shows on current affairs.

Sanjay-Pinto

I think the media, especially 24 hour TV journalism, should have short service commission. I experienced symptoms of burn out, coupled with stagnation and a burning desire to spend quality time with my family. Vidya and I were blessed with twin angels in 2011. This was when my family became my new target audience! I quit NDTV with a heavy heart to plunge into legal practice. It was a big risk at the peak of an eventful tv career  but I have survived! And hopefully will thrive!
With a lot more free time, my long pending project (rather my wife’s wish!) – a book materialised. “Speakers Are Made, Not Born”, published by Covenant Media and distributed by Landmark has become a bestseller.

2. Today the news media is undergoing drastic change because of the opportunities for independent journalism on blogs, because of the ability to constantly update stories online, and because many people prefer to read news online rather than in traditional newspaper format. What do you think about these phenomena? Will they change journalism for the better or the worse? Why?

Journalism is an ever evolving profession. When there’s a air crash or some big tragedy, who captures the news first? Amateur videographers, tweeple and the person on the street. Everyone has a mobile camera and that makes every citizen a potential journalist. The social media today is the latest barometer of public opinion. Soon, newspapers and tv channels may end up losing their ‘mass media’ position and become the niche media. Online or what I call the `word of mouse` is the future! Why, even TV is being watched less on TV and more on hand held devices. If Journalism is forced to keep pace with technology, that’s a question of survival. And yes, a good sign too! The flip side is the venom spewed on the social media, especially on twitter by anonymous users. You can regulate the mainstream media. The social media is out of bounds!

3. Any regrets about switching careers in your life?

The joy of being there for my kids far surpasses the thrill of breaking news and anchoring shows on TV! But I still host weekly radio shows on Chennai Live 104.8 FM and write columns. My second book is also in the pipeline. It takes time to establish oneself as a lawyer. That’s a Hobson’s Choice.

4. Tell us about the struggles that you have faced as a journalist and advocate.

Every profession has pitfalls and challenges.
As a journalist, the biggest challenge was being on call 24×7. Throughout my 15 year stint in NDTV, I had never switched off my mobile phone. Not even during holidays. It was attached to my ear, a part of my anatomy, next to my pillow while sleeping. The unpredictable nature of the job – not knowing what the day would bring was both exciting and tension filled.
As an Advocate, you are on your own – without an assured salary every month, that I was accustomed to. God has been kind and my wife has been understanding. I know that what starts as a trickle can become a torrent one day. I’m waiting!
Minus the NDTV tag, I have realised who my real friends are.

5. You  won a landmark judgement for Dipika Pallikal against Axis Bank. Tell us about that.

Dipika was my first client. Her mother Susan Pallikal trusted me when I had just got enrolled as a lawyer. It was a case of deficiency in service by the bank. The Consumer Court awarded a significant sum of 5 lakh plus interest and expenses as compensation. There was a lot of media interest in the case. Arguing this case was very fulfilling. I really got to put my oratorical skills to good use here.  I am happy that the bank honored the verdict.

6. Your views on consumer awareness and being fearless about demanding one’s rights. 

I do feel that the  Consumer movement must be strengthened in India. Consumers are either not fully aware of their rights or don’t care to protest when they need to. Mercifully, consumer courts, despite the vacancies and the backlog are quite effective. Do you know that there are so many illegal disclaimers like ‘Parking At Owners Risk’, ‘We accept no liability of persons using this Lift’ and so on? When a shopping mall switches off the AC when you are inside or when bank ATMs don’t work, how many of us take up the gauntlet? We must demand a minimum standard of service. Accountability is not like automatic transmission. We need to gear up for a fight!

7. Politicians, bureaucrats and cops alike seem to have a lot of good will towards you. Tell us about that. 

A journalist need not be feared but can be loved. I have always adhered to old fashioned principles – be fair and balanced, be sensible and sensitive and not sensational and put people first. Trust is sacred. I have never divulged my sources, even at the risk of being misunderstood sometimes. I have had a good rapport with political leaders of all parties. I particularly admire our Chief Minister Ms.Jayalalithaa who has always been very kind to me and even stopped her convoy to give me a short interview in the 2011 assembly election. I had written a column last year listing 10 reasons why she would make a good Prime Minister.
I have always been close to officers – right from my school days. My classmate’s dad was the Commissioner of Police and he inspired me a lot. Many officers are my good friends. I socialise and even play badminton with some of them.  I respect their work and know where to draw the line. We trust each other. I don’t take advantage of our friendship and ask for favours that are ‘out of the way’.


8. Where has the chivalry gone with the number of rapes and manhandling that has been going on all over the country? Can you talk about your take on Badaun girls? and the gang rape in Lucknow?

My first reaction about these criminals was ‘bloody animals’.  As a father of a little girl, my heart goes out to the parents of those victims. These heinous crimes are a grim reminder that the hangman needs to keep his job. These perpetrators have had a violent streak that either went unnoticed or ignored. Self defence classes must be part of every school curriculum. Women must be trained to give it back. These men who harm women are cowards. Stand up to bullies and they will take to their heels. Self Defence is recognised in the Indian Penal Code. Of course, there is the doctrine of ‘proportionate force’.
On the chivalry front, I’d say it should start with upbringing. I know of parents who proudly proclaim that they never let their sons raise a finger at home doing domestic chores. I wish they say, ‘I will never let my son raise his hand against a woman’. Giving roses and diamond rings on Valentines Day is not chivalry. Promising to bear the entire marriage expenses is a more meaningful form of showing some spine.

9. Tell us about your interactions with Dr. Prannoy Roy, Arnab Goswami, and others.

Dr. Prannoy Roy was not my boss but a role model. Do you know he doesn’t like to be called ‘Sir’. It’s either Prannoy or Dr.Roy. Having grown up admiring the man from ‘The World This Week’ years, it was a dream come true to have worked for him and Mrs. Radhika Roy. They are wonderful people. I’m saying this after quitting NDTV so there’s no extra increment on my mind! I may have left NDTV but the umbilical cord is intact.

Arnab Goswami is a dear friend and was a great former senior colleague. I still remember how he motivated me to do investigative stories at NDTV. I recently requested Arnab to give me a few lines about working with me for my second book and what he sent moved me to tears. Contrary to what many viewers think, he is actually very soft spoken in person. On The News Hour, you see a very different Arnab. I like him.

Rajdeep Sardesai was my political mentor at NDTV and is one of the best brains in the industry. You cannot find a more down to earth and unassuming Editor. He leads by example. A General who has fought many wars.

Sonia Singh has been a strict, no nonsense pillar of support. She is very fair to everyone.

I have known Barkha Dutt much before we both joined NDTV. We met at the Mukherjee Memorial Debate at St.Stephens College. A workaholic, she brings energy to the channel.

Sreenivasan Jain has been like an elder brother. I think he writes the best  TV scripts.

10. Tell us about Your best selling book and your public speaking institute.

My wife Vidya runs the Silver Tongue Academy Resource. The tagline – ‘Speakers Are Made, Not Born’ is the title of my first book. It’s a practical guide to master the art of public speaking. I’m grateful to my dear friend and brother Joshua Madan for publishing it through Covenant Media and to Landmark for making it a bestseller. Having fought stage fright as a little boy, I know the struggle I went through to become a national debating champion. As the Mentor of the Silver Tongue Academy Resource, I always tell our students that Public Speaking is not rocket science. We train students of select institutions. We recently opened a Public Speaking Lab in Mookambika Complex in Alwarpet to coach an assorted group of students. We are also planning to offer crash courses for housewives and professionals. Those interested can sms Vidya at 9952705555 or email her atvidya@silvertongue.in.

11. Tell us about your Family life.

My Life revolves around my family. Vidya and I have had a love marriage. We belong to different religions but share common values and goals. Our twin angels – Sanvi & Vidan are now in Pre KG and mean the world to us. My facebook profile picture – of my daughter trying to talk to me through the TV, when I was anchoring the news on NDTV in 2011, set me thinking about priorities in life. I have placed my family over my career. That’s how it should be.

12. A few words about RITZ

Only a few words?!  The story of RITZ reminds me of NDTV. It has the first come advantage. It has stood the test of time, as many other lifestyle mags fell by the wayside. It has given rise to other publications from the same stable. Just like NDTV that started with one show and today is a collection of channels. Aruna is a dear friend but that does not color my opinion. I always respect people who come up on their own steam with middle class values. My wish? Ritz should go international in 5 years. After all, it interviews the right people!!!

The News maker

0

Vice President of Times of India (TOI) Ninan Thariyan talks to Richa Tilokani about the evolution of TOI and the media in the country.

Ninan-Thariyan

Question 1: Your first job was with TOI. Now you are in the enviable position of Vice President. Tell us about your journey.

I have had a very interesting and satisfying journey so far. I started with the Free Press Journal, Mumbai after getting a post graduate degree in Personnel Management and joined the Personnel department there. My area of focus was Industrial Relations and I handled labor welfare and industrial relations etc. Less than a year later, I joined the Personnel department of The Times of India at Mumbai. Later, I took a sabbatical to go to the US to get an MBA in Marketing. During that period, I worked with the Orange County Register in Los Angeles. On my return to Mumbai, I resumed my work at the Response department at The Times of India’s corporate office until I headed to the Chennai office. My next stop was at the Pune office as the head of Response where I spent six years. Later on, I moved to the Ahmedabad office to head the Response department there until I moved back to Chennai in 2000.

Question 2: About the evolution of TOI and the message in it for media in the country.

When I joined The Times of India, the company had fewer publications and editions. But, over a period of time, the organization has grown tremendously with editions all over India. The Times of India has also attained the distinction of being the largest circulated English newspaper in the world while The Economic Times went on to become the second largest business newspaper in the world. The language division of the company became the third largest language entity in the country. I was very fortunate to be a part of the organization when these historic milestones were achieved. The group’s other achievements include the foray into television, radio, internet and Out of Home during this period. Today, the company has become a large business conglomerate and an undisputed leader with footprints across the country.

As far as the message for media is concerned, I think The Times of India can be credited with pushing the envelope to take the print industry in the country to greater heights. While the print media in many parts of the world is on the decline, India has managed to buck the trend by showing growth, year on year and I think TOI has played a pivotal role in creating this success story for print media in India. In fact, I can confidently say that TOI is a trendsetter in every way.

Question 3: You were part of the team that launched TOI in Chennai. Tell us about your experiences in this connection. 

The launch of the Chennai edition was one of the most exciting phases of my career mostly because of three significant reasons:

1) It was one of the most awaited launches as talks about the TOI launch were in the air for a long time.

2) It was a very competitive market which made our task cut out for us.

3) In my experience, it was the best team work I had seen and been part of.

 There were a lot of skeptics who felt that there was no room for one more newspaper in the Chennai market. But we created a market for ourselves. TOI was accepted warmly by the city and we soon became a part of the city’s culture.

Question 4: You must have worked in several places for TOI all along. Tell us about that.

In terms of work, I have found Chennai to be challenging and exciting and I really enjoy working here. Having studied here, I share a huge emotional connect with the city. When it comes to non-work areas, I liked Pune. A city that is rich in its cultural traditions like Chennai, there are also several getaways close by where you could take off to during the weekend. We also had a good enthusiastic team there. Being a language market, Ahmedabad proved to very challenging. The thing about the culturally rich city is that it takes time for you to get used to the place. But before you realise it, the place grows on you. Mumbai was a different place altogether. The hustle-bustle, the long hours of commuting and at work and the fact that TOI was numero uno. Work, studies at Jamnalal Bajaj Institute and bachelor life at the YMCA – Mumbai is amazing. It has something for everyone.

Question 5: Tell us a little about your family.

My wife and two daughters make my family. My wife is a home-maker, my elder daughter works with Goldman Sachs and my younger child is in Class XI pursuing  Humanities curriculum  at Lalaji Memorial Omega International School.

Question 6: A few words for RITZ on our 10th anniversary.

Ritz, for me, is Chennai social life in a capsule. When I miss reading newspapers during my absence from the city, I turn to Ritz to fill in. Whether it is the social life in the city, the glitz and the glamour or hyper-local news and happenings, Ritz has it all. 10 years of Ritz, perhaps tells the story of the social transformation in Chennai.

The Hotelier Par Excellence

0

Hotelier Vikram Cotah talks to Ticha Tilokani about his meteoric rise to the top of the Radisson and GRT Chain in Chennai.

Vikram-Cotah-

1. Your journey to the top of the Radisson and GRT chain in Chennai

It was love at first sight! I was 14 years old and went to see an uncle from America who was staying in The Taj Coromandel Hotel. I fell in love with the lobby of the hotel. The sight of pretty ladies sailing with low-hip saris smiling as though they have no worries in the world and the gentlemen in smart dark suits strutting very businesslike not aware of the great ambience surrounding them but are out to accomplish something big. The exquisitely presented food and blood red wine in clinking glasses- I could feel the luxury and the glamour shaking hands everywhere. This extraordinarily experience created my dream to become part of this one day. Later on, after graduating from IHM Bangalore, I joined the same hotel as a Management trainee. The love at first sight turned soon into a passion. Love happened again when I saw a front office trainee from across the same hotel lobby where I was the Asst. Restaurant Manager at the IndianRestaurant. I married Sowmya after a year’s courtship in the same hotel.  My journey took me around the world to exotic locations like Maldives and also into some popular Indian and International Hospitality and QSR brands and finally I joined the Radisson Blu GRT Hotel as a General Manager. I upgraded my skills with certifications from the Ivy League Cornell University . In 2010, I was nominated as for the prestigious award: ‘General Manager of the Year’ for the Carlson Hotels Asia Pacific.Today, I am a Senior Vice President with Multi- Hotels responsibility and also responsible for the new Hotel projects of GRT Hotels and Resorts.

2. You are a social celebrity yourself. Tell us about that.

I am not a socialite, though I seem to have a reputation for being one as I love people! I happen to have some good friends who happen to be in the so called ‘Society’. Being in hotels you come across fascinating people and some very successful and interesting ones too! I am fortunate to rub shoulders with some accomplished celebrities as part of my profession. I have dined and entertained Heads of State, Top Business heads, Fashionistas, Film stars, Writers, Sportspersons and many more during my journey in this profession. I was a pioneer in food styling for food photography in Chennai and this brought me in contact with the media and famed photographers like Sharad Haksar and Venkat.

3. The current state of the hospitality industry in India.

The hospitality industry is a true indicator of the economy. If the economy is on the high, the hospitality industry booms. I have seen such cycles already during my career. Unfortunately, in the last ‘high’ many players invested into the industry and all these hotels are getting ready now and we having over-supply with limited demand which is adding to the woes in most cities in India. But I always see the ‘glass half full’ and I think this industry will see glory soon again. After all in this global age people have to travel, stay, eat and have fun!!

4. We heard your daughter is a fabulous combination of intelligence and beauty. She was a topper in school and is now making her entry into the world of modeling. What plans do you have for her? What are her aspirations?

I am not taking any credit for my genes! Nevertheless, Ramya is an all- rounder and I am proud of her. She stood first in the state in her 10th football at district level for the school, city schools level athlete, School Head Girl, excelled in debating and acting and finally scored 97.5% in her 12th .As part of her growing up experimentation she is also modeling now after she won “Ms Photogenic” in a talent hunt “Megamodel” by Prasad Bidappa last year in the city. She has done quite a few assignments for top brands and seems to be enjoying herself. But finally she also wants to be an Hotelier and is going to do a management degree in Hospitality.

5. How do you balance work life and family as your work involves so much travel?

Hospitality as any service industry is hard on family and social life. But I try and balance it and also get some family & ‘me’ time after all. I love travel and in the past few years I have been to more than 20 countries and many cities on work as well as for holidays. My wife Sowmya also travels with me during work-travel sometimes. My idea of chilling is the bi-annual holidays always with family and friends. Hoteliers go through a crazy lifestyle & I am writing my first book on first hand hotelier’s experiences and customer service and call it “Serve Love”!

6. We know you are also fitness-conscious. Tell us about your workout and diet regimen. How tough is it to head a hospitality chain that is well known for the quality of food and resist the temptation of bingeing every day?

Fitness is a lifestyle for me. I have always been physical and did a lot of sport before hotels came by. With the crazy work schedules now my fitness time is 5.30 am in the morning 5 days a week. I try and get 90 minutes of workout –mostly functional training of cardio and strength training. To keep the body fit you also need a fit mind and I live a positive life as stress free as possible. Diet is 70% of your fitness and I try and eat clean but it is difficult sometimes when the chef cooks up some tempting lunches or when we are making new menus when I have  to taste all the food or when I am entertaining. I am quite a foodie and have a Facebook Foodie page. I also take pride in my cooking skills !

7. The work culture at your group of hotels. Tell us about how you nurture and identity talent

People are the most important factor for hospitality service. GRT Hotels realize this and has invested a lot into nurturing, training and development of this asset. In Hotels if customer is God, Employees are Angels and have to be revered as much! We have several programs for people recruitment, retention and growth and some of them are benchmarked by International brands from our policies. We try and engage employees at every stage so that they have a fulfilling career with us.

8. A few words for RITZ on our 10th anniversary.

RITZ is a lifestyle magazine I have been personally following it for the past 10 years. I always look out for Ritz magazine among all my subscriptions as it sets the perspective on the many lifestyle concepts and is also entertaining. It has carved out a unique space in this niche and reaches out to a great audience. I try and get our hotels advertised in it often. I wish Aruna (one of the most inspiring entrepreneurs I have met) – a great friend, all the best for the next successful decade.

Madhur Bhandarkar at “The Goolagong Cup 2014”

0

‘Sshaawn Group of Companies’ has recently ventured into ‘Sshaawn Horses & Sports’. The star racer, “Amandus” has made the owner proud once again by clinching the winning title at  “The Goolagong Cup 2014”. National Award-winning Indian film director, Madhur Bhandarkar at the “The Goolagong Cup 2014” with Mr. Waahiid (winner):

[wzslider height=”600″]

Baked with love

0
They say money can’t buy happiness but it can buy cupcakes. Here’s an interesting but simple cupcake recipe you can follow and enjoy!
love-cake
Vanilla Princess Cupcake
½ tin Mithai Mate
1 cup flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
3 tbsp powdered sugar
 Pinch of salt
60 ml unsalted melted butter
1 tsp vanilla essence
Preparation Method:
Sift together the dry ingredients twice to incorporate air and to rid it of all the lumps.
Mix the mithai mate, vanilla essence and butter.
Then fold in the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients.
Pour into cupcake liners filling each about ¾ and bake in a preheated oven at 180-200 degrees Celsius.
Tips:
Make sure the butter is not too hot. Melt the butter and let it cool for a bit before adding it.
The final batter should be of dropping consistency. If it is too thick add a few spoons of milk or water.
This batter is a good base for several other flavors. Some of the options are as follows
1. Add half a cup of choco chips.
2. Add half an apple and ½ tsp cinnamon powder.
3. Swirl a tsp of Nutella after pouring the batter into the moulds.

 

Hi! Design

0

A table and chair might be mere furniture and yellow, blue and green may be just colours for many but for Sadhana Srinivasan they are her tools using which she tells the story of a house.

Sadhana-Srinivasan

“My mother told me that I should always keep myself busy,” shares Sadhana Srinivasan as she looks back at how it all started. “It was with this advice that I decided to design the interiors of my house,” adds Sadhana. Who would have guessed that a piece of advice would lead Sadhana to become a well-known interior designer in South India?

Sadhana, who graduated from Ethiraj College with a Master’s degree in English Literature, had an enthrallment about colours and designs. An amateur in the field, initially Sadhana decided to begin her journey from home. Impressed with her work, Sadhana started getting offers from family and friends to redesign their houses. “I slowly started getting projects. My relatives started recommending me to their friends and friends started recommending my work to their families. And through it all, I kept growing and gaining experience,” Sadhana says. Though she started gaining experience, she confesses that she hadn’t charged a single rupee for the work she did. “I know that I did a foolish thing in the beginning but I was very passionate about what I was doing that payment hardly mattered,” Sadhana says.

Sadhana got married and started a family soon but this did not stop her from pursuing her passion. “My husband has been very supportive of my career. He knows how devoted I am to my profession and is my pillar of strength. Balancing my personal and professional life has been very challenging but I’ve managed to sail through. There have been times when juggling both roles has been very hard but my family made it easy,” Sadhana says.

As projects fell into her kitty, Sadhana reached great heights. Soon enough she landed a project which would admittedly become the biggest turn of her life – a a chance to redesign the house of Nalini Chidambaram, wife of former finance minister P Chidambaram. “Nalini Chidambaram has been a family friend for many years. Her grandmother and my grandmother have been friends, as were her mother and my mother and so on. She has seen me since my childhood and knows about my passion for interior designing. Redesigning her house was the biggest turning point in my life,” Sadhana says.

Before setting foot into the corporate world, Sadhana wanted to learn everything about the profession. “I wanted to get into the number one college in the world to learn about the field. After surfing the internet, I decided to join Inchbald School of Design, London in 2004. The funny part was that my son was also entering college and he also studied in the UK so we would fly in and out together. At Inchbald, I completed my Bachelor’s in Interior Design and went on to do my Master’s in the same college where I was the gold medalist of my batch,” Sadhana shares.

After completing her education for the second time, Sadhana returned home and decided to start Neeras, an interior design studio. “Neeras is my grandmother’s dream. She believed in me and knew I had the potential to make it big. So I decided to name the studio after her. Neeras is a combination of three names – Nee from Neela, my grandmother’s name; Ra from the name of my grandfather, Mr. CA Ramakrishnan, former chief secretary to the government of Tamil Nadu and S from Sadhana,” she shares.

Neeras came into existence in April 2013. It was inaugurated on the occasion of Sadhana’s birthday, 17 April. “What’s more auspicious than one’s own birthday?” Sadhana adds. As soon as the studio launched, clients poured in and Sadhana climbed the ladder of corporate success. She has done various apartments in and out of Chennai and also caters to revamping residences, spas, office interiors, bungalows, parlours and hotels.

Sharing her most memorable experience after the launch of Neeras, Sadhana recalls redesigning the interiors of a city-based advocate. “This client was special because he came to me just three days before his wedding requesting me to redesign the house to welcome the new bride home. A job that required at least a month was targeted to be completed within three days. The challenge was tough but we managed to complete it. We used a lot of beige and brown colour combinations to the house. By the time we completed, I was seen decorating the house with flowers and drawing a kolam! Of course, it wasn’t a part of my job but I did it anyway. The family was so touched by my personal involvement that they started considering me as one of their own. At the wedding reception, they were introducing me to guests like I was a member of the family,” Sadhana shares. “I couldn’t have done it if it weren’t for my team,” she adds. Sadhana’s team is divided into various departments, and comprises specialists who do not interfere into other departments. The team knows her working style and makes it a point to execute their individual responsibilities to perfection. “I am a perfectionist and a tough taskmaster. My team knows that. If I do not like a particular work, for example the way the wall is painted, I make it a point to redo everything from the start,” Sadhana says.

Gazing into the future, Sadhana looks at expanding and taking up projects all over the country. After which, she wishes to go back to serving clients in London. “People have already started recognising me by my brand name; it feels good. Someday, I wish to go international with my business and take up projects in London,” Sadhana says. “Everyone comes into the world with a purpose. I want people to remember me, not as someone’s wife, mother or daughter but as someone who did something. I want to leave a mark in society,” concludes Sadhana.

Documenting Traditions

0

Anju Poddar could have well remained a traditional Marwari housewife and mother. But she chose to use her love for art and her innate curiosity to write books that are treasure troves of Hindu rituals, festivals, traditions, menu planning and more.

Anju-Poddar

Anju Poddar may have started writing books only after she turned 50 but they have been her constant companions since she was a child. “I loved reading ever since I can remember and some bookshops even let me borrow books and return them after reading. I am very careful with books as I don’t bend corners or twist the covers while I read.” This love for reading inevitably meant a great deal of knowledge about a lot of things. Add to that Anju’s multiple roles as wife, daughter, sister, mother, grandmother and good friend. All of these have something to do with her writing the seven books she has.

With M F Husain being a frequent guest to her home when she was younger, she got the opportunity to learn about art from the master himself. This also inculcated in her the love for arts, crafts, textiles and today her home is a collector’s delight with artworks by some of India’s best artists adorning her walls and tables. Between her reading and her love for art, Anju developed the habit of taking notes. “I always make notes during my travels and with any subject that interests me. I also have a habit of giving myself a gift on my birthday. On my 50th birthday I decided to go to Kaliash Mansarovar with some friends. I made a lot of notes about getting there, the journey etc. Then I was telling my daughters and grandchildren about it and friends who wanted to go there would ask me for details. That is when my daughter suggested I compile my notes into a book and the first one, A journey to the heavens was written.” Later she made an illustrated one on the same topic for her grandsons titled Yash & Aman’s journey to Mansarovar and Mt Kailash.

Each of the books has a story that is similar and her friends like Sangeeta Biyani, the wife of Kishore Biyani, Ram Prasad, the owner of Walden Book Store in Hyderabad, P Narendra of Pragati Printers, Sudha Jalan, Bharti Surya Rao, Usha Kumar and others have helped her along the way with some of the books. Her continued patronage of artists helped her get people like Husain, Laxma Goud, Vaikuntam and others on board who created artworks to go with the content of her books.

The books are full of very practical, easy to follow tips and suggestions. Anju believes in doing research and goes about it by asking people she considers are authorities on the subject. Citing an example she says, “My friend Sangeeta Biyani is a very good menu planner. Every time we eat at her place, I would notice that she would have everything organised down to the last detail. So when I decided to do a book titled Meals, Menus & More, I took her help for it. I have documented every detail from how to stock a fridge to ma seven day menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner. There are even suggestions and recipes for high tea, brunch, food you can carry while travelling, dishes to be made during shraadh, or while having a katha at home or during fasting. There is even a section on measurements, menus for new mothers and the hindi name for all ingredients. I substantiated it with quotes from people like Shobhana Bhartia and Rajshri Birla.

About her books being informative she says, “If you have knowledge about something, you must share it so that everyone gets to know. Plus, the younger generation is not as familiar with our rituals and traditions so by documenting it I am trying to pass on the customs we have followed to the next generation. Her book titled Our Festivals Our Traditions has enormous details on all the pujas we do, the festivals, and the different foods made for each. They help people living abroad as well – especially those who want their kids to learn about Indian rituals.” Another book titled A Wedding in the house is a similar document about wedding rituals.

Coming to her latest book, 108 Shades of Divinity, she reveals that it is a collaborative effort along with the late Mukul Singhal  and Sethu Vaidyanathan. She says, “Again, I must say I have not visited all the holy places written about in the book. But I spoke to people who had been to these places and we also talked to people from different religions about their places of worship. What brought us three authors together was our passion for visiting places of worship. And we decided we had to include all religions so there are shrines that are sacred to Hindus, Muslims, Jains, Sikhs, Parsis, Buddhists, Christians and Jews. This book took the longest time to put together as it took us a while to source the right kind of images from photo agencies.”  She also included articles on religion and how it has a common goal by well known writers, businessmen and other celebrities.

Once Anju decides on a project, she spends her afternoons gathering information about the subject by talking to people. Then with the help of someone who is well versed with the computer she dictates her notes and gets it all typed out. Then she goes about publishing it. Most of her books are self published.

So while the idea for the next book is being formulated, Anju continues her journey as a patron of arts and textiles and her next venture too is likely to be an informative document on an aspect of Indian culture.

One life to love

0

When Santha John decided to retire and resign from her post as Managing Director JWT Mindset, a leading ad agency, she was afraid she would have nothing to do. But a chance meeting with someone at a park led her on to the idea of becoming a life coach – and the lady is having enjoying the process of becoming one. Minal Khona tells us more after an interesting chat with the lady herself.

Santha-John

A well-known figure in Hyderabad circles, the cakes she makes during Christmas are very popular with the lucky ones who are gifted with one. But besides being a wonderful cook and having had a very successful career in advertising, Santha John has a personality that is not given to being idle for long. Afraid that household concerns like a malfunctioning washing machine or a car due for service would make her “become a witch” she started thinking about post retirement options even as she worked out her notice period. Seated amidst the green environs of her home, she says, “I was asked to continue for a few months after I resigned till the handover was complete. I agreed but kept wondering what I could do after that as I am not very patient and would find it hard to just sit at home doing nothing. I enrolled for a CEO coaching programme from Chennai but my heart was not in it. I didn’t want to go back to corporate life. “

Destiny intervened and she met someone at the park during one of her walks, who had a cousin who is a life coach in Canada. “I went home and looked it up on Google and found this coach in London. I connected with her but she told me she couldn’t certify me as a coach and connected me with Curly Martin who is a life coach and the author of the bestselling The Life Coaching Handbook.  I did part of the course in London and it is ongoing so the rest of it continues over Skype. I had to give a commitment to the coach as to when I would start coaching and my deadline was the 31st of December last year. I started on the 27th of that month,” Santha reveals with a smile.

What exactly though, is life coaching? She says, “It is not mentoring, counseling nor is it therapy. Basically, if you have a goal you have been putting off, or you are not able to achieve it or there are hiccups along the way, a life coach can help you attain clarity without being judgmental. Just like one would organise one’s cupboard where everything has its place, similarly talking to a life coach can help you organise your life – from inside out.” It also works towards motivating people to start something they have been procrastinating about or change habits that hold them back.

As Santha trains to become a coach, she has to put in 50 hours of coaching, two case studies and a thesis of 3100 words to get international accreditation and become a full-fledged life coach.  While she coaches, one mentor and one coach listen in over Skype to guide her through it and give pointers. She says, “As a coach, for 75 per cent of our session, I have to let the client speak. It is through what they say mostly that they understand what it is that they want to do or what they seek.”

Initially, Santha did pro bono work which she announced over Facebook. Subsequently she started charging 25 per cent of the nominated fee. She laughs and says, “When it was free, everyone wanted to come. Now that I am charging what in effect works out to only Rs 2500 a month for four sessions, not everyone is keen.” Santha donates the money she earns through life coaching to the Hyderabad Children’s AIDS Society. A client can have only four sessions a month, once a week for an hour at a  time. Santha plans to devote two hours a day to this practice. She even has plans to convert an outdoor room into her office.

One of the techniques of this programme is creating a list of your values and the uppermost value defines how you lead your life. A practice that has taught her something about herself too, she reveals.  She says “I am a very impulsive person by nature; I am learning not to be so impulsive. From having all my requests or orders followed by staff at work, I am learning to be a bit flexible with home issues where not everything is smooth sailing at all times. “

So while Santha prepares to become a life coach, she hopes to be able to help as many people as possible to lead more fulfilled lives.

Bridging the Traditional and the Contemporary

0

The young and very talented Sashikant Naidu showcased his collection at the Lakme India Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2014. The theme was ‘Separe’ meaning separates in French. The collection which combined the traditional art of Kalamkari with contemporary silhouettes in the western garments and enhanced this beautiful art in all its glory in the Indian wear received a very positive response. And actress Shriya Saran walking the ramp for him only took the glam quotient up by several notches.

Sashikant-Naidu

After a break of two years, designer Sashikant Naidu decided to participate at this year’s LIFW Autumn/Winter 2014. He describes his collection and his theme. “The theme of my label Sashikant Naidu  is “separe”(meaning separates in French).It is a concept of ‘separates’ put together as a collection. The idea and focus behind this concept is making individual pieces that can be teamed with garments from the already existing wardrobe of every woman. Dresses, jackets, skirts, scarves, stoles, dupattas, lehengas,sarees and blouses is what ‘separe’ is all about. The fabrics I have used are silks, dupion, Fletcher, ikat and Khadi along with crepes,” he says.
“It is a combination of muted tones with brights, layered,textured (especially fine Khadi, to make it heavier and suitable for winter) and embellished with handmade accessories with fabric and tribal jewellery.

In a mix of tradition and contemporary, it’s a collection of hand painted ensembles wherein traditional hand painting technique with eco-friendly colors is widely used and contemporary in terms of style,design and silhouette . Adding an element of shimmer using hand embroidery, the motifs inspired by nature, the painting artist’s perception of life in tribal communities and the temple borders of South India is what the story of separates is all about.”

His label on the whole stands for clean cuts and subtlety which are the core elements of his brand making practical yet innovative clothing. It’s a label inspired by Indian culture, heritage, tribes and colours. A label known for using fabrics that are distinctive in terms of yarn, dye ,design and equally known for simple structured clothing with finish being the most important aspect.

Sashikant, besides working on his own label is also a design consultant for Kalam Creations and an Advisor for the Kalam Creations Artisan Society for the last five years.  His forte is creating fusion between the traditional and the contemporary and working towards keeping the art of Kalamkari alive and inducing interest among the younger artisans to take it up as a full time profession.

The Good Samaritan

0

All Round Nice Guy Manoj Beno talks to Richa Tilokani about his passion for providing affordable treatment to the needy and deserving.

Manoj Beno(1)

Tell us about your journey. 

Born to highly educated parents, I was the worst ever possible problem child to them. I started off as a bright student and a class topper in school and then sank like the Titanic. I went from bad to worse in college. I was taking life easy. I used to study at the last minute and fare poorly in my exams. I once watched an interview by Rajinikanth where he divided the different decades of one’s life from birth into stages. They were categorized into stages like innocence till 10 years of age, ignorance till 20 and so on. He went on to add that if one took the span between 20 and 30 lightly, life is ruined. I did not turn over a new leaf immediately. I went on to enjoy life, but the thought and fear sat perched somewhere within me. Suddenly towards the end of my college days, reality hit me and I started panicking. I was not born to doctor parents, had no hospital to inherit and was about to deal with precious human lives. The very fact that people’s lives would be entrusted to me and I was so half-baked in knowledge gave me great depression and I was very apprehensive about my future. I started studying. When all my colleagues had performed well in the course and were relaxing during the internship period, I started studying and working too. Healing lives is a gift and I did not want to do injustice to it. I was not sure if I would be successful but I did not want to be a failure. I made up for all that I failed to absorb and gained confidence as a doctor. I worked in the Intensive Cardiac Care department of a hospital for 4 years. I then got an offer to become the Medical Director of Billroth Hospitals which had just then expanded into a corporate group. It was a great responsibility and tempting as it was to flaunt that business card, it did put me in a state of uncertainty. I was not sure if I could deliver. Setting up a corporate hospital is not an easy task, and I was young and inexperienced. But the Managing Director who is even younger than me put his faith in me and gave me that break. With all gratitude I took it up, and here I am today. I have done my bit to help the owners give shape to Billroth Hospitals over the last 8 years and we are going strong.

Your take on medical euthanasia.

Euthanasia is something that can be permitted if the intentions of human beings are in black and white. Most often they are not so, and hence the dispute. When you want to put an end to a person’s misery, that is humanity. But when you do it with the selfish motive of putting an end to your own misery or inconvenience, that is cruelty. Today, many want to end the lives of their near and dear ones because they have exhausted all their leave at work, they cannot afford or do not wish to spend on a patient whom they know is ultimately not going to recover, or they are keen to inherit wealth. Often there is huge pressure to stop treatment or to take a patient off the ventilator which we strictly do not approve of. The right to end a life should never be misused, and in the process it is okay even if it cannot be used. It is always we who misuse the privileges given to us like kidney donation for example. Malpractices creep in everywhere and there is no other go but to tighten the rules. But again, if we are able to gauge people’s intentions and differentiate good from bad, this would be heaven and not earth.

We heard u are passionate about trying to give affordable treatment to the needy and deserving. Do you think it is mandatory that all private hospitals follow a certain public service like that?

Never look upon all private hospitals as money making machines or cash cows. There is business and corruption in every field and it exists here and there in the hospital industry too but the public, movies and other media often project most hospitals in bad light which is not correct. Many private hospitals do quite a bit service in a big or even small way with the genuine intention of giving free treatment or to create awareness and educate the poor, needy and ignorant. So even if it was made mandatory, it would only be a streamlining guideline for something that many hospitals are already doing. As for trying to give affordable treatment to the needy and deserving through Billroth Hospitals, it has been possible only because the owner of the hospital has the mindset to do it. Every health care set-up owner should have that vision and not blindly focus on making money or retrieving investment costs. No one aspires to run at a loss, but humanity should definitely be an ingredient of the soup you serve. Do the right thing and your clientele will improve in volume, and that’s successful business too. Fortunately we have no unethical practices or ridiculous targets which usually force us to increase tariff rates under pressure. I would boldly say that if the general public were to compare corporate packages, Billroth Hospitals would definitely be the most affordable.

Your ads a while ago stating that BIllroth can assist women unto the age of 50 to get pregnant caused quite a flurry of hope. Tell us about women who come to BIllroth for fertility treatments. 

The message that the advertisement tried to convey was to give those longing couples a ray of hope that pregnancy is still possible and all hope is not yet lost. It is not to promote pregnancy at a late age for all the couples. Only the ones who wish to go for it will do so, and it is not just about paying money and getting it done. Counseling is done to all the couples, physical evaluation is done, risk factors are assessed and only when all criteria are favourable IVF is done. The decision makers are adults who have probably given a lot of forethought to the initiative and we are there to further help and guide them in the right direction. There are certain things that money can’t buy, and if technology can help bring happiness into the homes of the rich or poor in the form of a child, we should do all that we can to make it possible. The infertility rates in India are alarmingly high and there is huge pressure within families especially to the woman in such a scenario. IVF is certainly a boon to all those couples yearning to have a child to add meaning to their lives.

You have a huge following on Facebook. Tel us how you have come to be known as Mr. Nice Guy. 

Am I Mr. Nice Guy ? I leave that for people of this city that I love to decide. Facebook is a highly powerful and effective communication tool. It is a double-edged sword but if known to handle correctly, it can help you in various avenues like business, personal life, leisure, old and new friends. I am able to connect with friends, family and even my school teachers through Facebook. I have been invited as the chief guest for events, asked to give television and radio interviews, been requested to give away or receive awards, have been sought consultation or emergency help as a doctor many a time through this. We remember to wish people on their birthdays through Facebook and I try to add a small personal touch with a picture of me with the person and a birthday song whenever possible. Initially I did not understand the magnitude of it but when I see someone telling me that their birthday is approaching and they would like to meet me and take a picture so I could upload it on their birthday, I feel overwhelmed by the way they seem to appreciate it and the good vibes they feel towards me. My status updates have surprisingly attracted some attention among my friends and I am grateful to them for encouraging my sense of humor. My one-liners have found mention in newspapers, magazines and books, and I am glad that it brings some respite to people in the middle of a hard day’s work or after a stressful evening. Some people upon being introduced to me seem to identify my existence through my pictures in their friends’ Facebook profiles or my status updates which their friends had shared through me. I have always been clear about one thing. Never lament your woes on Facebook, never post hurtful updates or indulge in mud-slinging, never publicly react to other people’s provocative updates or comments. In other words, never hurt people or say unpleasant and uninteresting things on a public forum. If I am able to grab the attention of 5000 people who are in my list for a minute, I view it as a privilege and want to make the best use of it. In that one minute, I wish to make them think, appreciate, smile or laugh. I will always post only the things that will achieve these.

You are friends with stars as well. Tell us about them.

Once upon a time  the media uses to project stars as reserved, pompous and snobbish characters. The rest of the world used to gossip about the ‘attitude problems’ of the stars. Gone are those days. This generation of stars has been a breed of level-headed and down to earth individuals just like your neighbor or classmate. They would be a good friend to anyone they trust and they in return will be trustworthy too. Is this not what defines friendship between any two normal human beings ? That is exactly what they are too. I don’t see them as stars. Many a time I have been there to support all my friends whenever they need medical help or emotional support. Some of them are doctors, engineers, some are into business, and some are stars. That’s all. To me, they are all the same. I would hardly or rarely require anything in return from any friend. I am not going to act in movies. I just believe in being there as a friend and a doctor. In return, star or not, every friend is equally important to me and it’s only their goodwill and warmth that I seek from every friend in return. My father passed away recently. Every friend and well wisher who condoled his death meant a lot to me. Many of them were stars too. Karthi came and spent time with me putting aside his busy schedule. Sonia Aggarwal who is otherwise not very comfortable about funerals did not leave my side. My doctor friends Rajesh, Kalpana, Lakshmi, Shivali, Sathya, Chaitanya and Vaishnavi were there with me throughout. Vijay Antony accompanied my father in the funeral van to the cemetry. Now this is friendship. I am blessed. Many others visited me later and expressed their grief over the phone and messages. I am grateful to all of them for proving that true friends are those who are with you more during your bad times than good. I have tried to give that to the world. I thank them for giving it back to me.

What is your best quality as a friend ?

I really do not know. I just tell myself that if I am a bad person, God will punish me. That’s all. Karma works very strongly in my case. When I do something wrong, my results are instant. I’m glad that this has given me the fear of God and thereby the beginning of some wisdom. So I try not to be a bad person to my family or my friends. God plays the strict headmaster with me. And I have come to realize that life is very short. My father was 65. Life suddenly goes to dust giving no room for anything else to be buried with you. Today the average life expectancy cannot be defined. More and more health issues are creeping in and people are dying young. In my journey I would just like to keep my enemies minimal and be good to those around me.I do not expect the same in return from any one. Every individual has good and bad qualities just like me. Life is not about finding a perfect ten out of ten in every person. From most of them we should learn to identify and absorb the good things, correct some bad things and forgive or ignore the rest. I am that one person who can walk into a crowded place full of known faces and not have to avoid anybody. I can assure all my friends one thing. Whenever you need me as a friend or a doctor, I will always try my best to be there for you, rain or shine.

Tell us about your workday? How often do you party?

Work is always crazy but there is nothing to grumble. It is always good to be busy. I’m in a totally different world when I’m at work. People who have met me at work have found a shocking contrast to the Manoj they had met outside socializing. I hardly take leave from work. I hardly travel. Work is challenging. There will be doctors to meet, patients to treat, meetings to conduct, grievances to address, patient deaths to attend to, employee issues, etc. The list is long. When I’m not at work I say a silent prayer hoping for all things to be going smooth back at the hospital. It is a place where so many human lives are undergoing treatment and things could easily go wrong. The pressure is huge. I still treat patients, and my patients who are mostly my good friends now will go to no other doctor. After balancing administration and a bit of practice I hit the gym without fail everyday. It is after all this stress that I get time to unwind. I do party hard. I step out with friends or attend events and I love to socialize. My friends circle is huge so events or clubs are a good way to catch up with them. But I’m mindful about one thing .I will only party as much as it would allow me to still be able to wake up in the middle of the night to attend to an urgent hospital issue or an SOS call from some relative or friend in need of medical help. And no matter what, I wake up early in the morning. On Sundays I clean my house. I even scrub my toilets. It is a common ritual for my friends to message me on a Sunday afternoon and ask me ‘Hey, how is the toilet cleaning going?’

Your plans for the future? 

I take every day as it comes. I never ever had a plan in mind to have reached where I am today. I just want to give my best to whatever I’m doing. That is enough. There are so many great achievers. I am nothing. I am yet to learn about them and learn from them. I have miles to go before I sleep.

Fashion Fades, Style is Eternal

0

In a society that places a lot of importance on ‘being seen in big designer labels’ to be called fashion savvy, Richa Tilokani and Minal Khona talk to 4 very different personalities for their perception of fashion and come away with very interesting responses.

[wzslider height=”600″]

Lounge Chic is the name of the game.

She is a Consultant in Strategic Marketing for four well known designers – Anand Kabra, Arjun Saluja, Kallol Datta and Suhani Pittie. But Aparna Roddam is also wellknown for her highly individualistic sense of fashion and her ability to look chic no matter what she wears. She says, “Fashion for me is driven by comfort. I won’t wear a trend because I am supposed to be in it. I would only wear it if I am comfortable and I would bring myself into whatever I am wearing. I believe a person should wear what works for them – whether it is the silhouette, the cut and the shape and then accessorise it in your signature style.”

Her wardrobe flaunts several big ticket designer labels, although Aparna adds, “I buy high street labels and street style clothes as well as the fabulous stuff one gets at flea markets abroad. I don’t believe in blindly following trends because that removes you from the equation. It is best to dress up in what you think is best because then you own it your way.” The chic fashionista further explains, “My personal style is very much wear and go – or what one would term lounge clothes. I like loose comfortable clothing and luckily since I am exposed to the industry due to my work, I come across interesting work that I can pick up. Luxury for me is not just a label; it is something that has value in terms of design, craftsmanship, quality and attention to detail. Whether it is clothing or shoes or jewellery, we buy some things that are trendy are others because they are classic. I like both! Basically, it has

to be something that makes a statement, not necessarily a bold one, it can be a very refined statement.”

Talking about her choice of clothes for this photoshoot for RITZ, Aparna Roddam says, “I am wearing a bubble gum pink jacket by Obataimu – a label created by a group of designers who work out of Alibaug near Mumbai. They have a store in Mumbai and the fabric is called cloud silk because they process it in such a way that the fabric is soft as a cloud. It is a reversible jacket and is extremely comfortable. I have teamed it up with a 3.1 Philip Lim skirt.” In the picture above, she wears an Anamika Khanna cape, teamed with trousers and Reed Krakoff shoes.

Repetition is Taboo

Lakshmi Krishnaswamy is passionate about making her store Lux 214 work. Think pretty dresses, gowns, funky tops, shrugs and cool accessories. They are sourced from Thailand, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Singapore apart from destinations where Lakshmi holidays like London and Colombo.

So what does Lakshmi love to wear, I wonder. “I wear a lot of dresses – whether long, short or midi. However, for a regular outing I prefer to wear jeans and a top or a t-shirt,” she says. She is also fond of her shoes – owning about 50 to 55 pairs and does not mind repeating her favourites.

What she does mind, however, is repeating her outfits. Explains Lakshmi, “In the age of Facebook, where every outing is recorded for posterity, I would not like to be caught wearing the same dress twice. I have a nice collection of dresses, so why would I want to repeat any of them?” On the fashion scene in the South, Lakshmi says that it is definitely evolving with the rise of the media and the internet. Fashion in the city is no longer limited to the Sabyas and the Anamikas for ethnic wedding wear. “There are many people who come to me for long gowns for pre-wedding functions. So things are definitely changing. Now there is more exposure and people don’t mind experimenting with their look. Plus, we have always had our own sensibilities in terms of saris and ethnic wear which are stylish in their own right.”

Lakshmi sure does love to have fun with fashion, so I ask her if she has had any funny experiences shopping in India and abroad. “Well, the funniest one was in China because of the language problem. The Chinese are very friendly and helpful but they don’t understand English at all. So we had to hire a translator and he was really expensive. It was a difficult trip overall, as people did not know even basic English words like water, clothes etc. Many times while shopping, we picked up some stuff and returned with something totally different,” she says smilingly.

But these challenges don’t bog her down. They are just part and parcel of Lakshmi’s life and in her own words she would not have it any other way.

The Maverick

He is relatively low profile even though he admits to partying hard when the mood takes him. Always dressed in black and white, Anand Kabra is one of Hyderabad’s more subtle designers. For him, fashion is not just about clothes or models. It is more of a socio-political commentary on the times we live in. Says Anand, “We are what we wear. We tend to express ourselves through our clothes. So my clothes are more of a lifestyle choice, rather than a projection of Fashion Weeks. “ No wonder, Anand treats his collections with the seriousness and the depth they demand. But he also believes in having fun with fashion. Talking about the single most important person he would love to design for, he quips instantly, “Cliched as it sounds, I would have to say Madonna. She stands for change, is in the prime of her life, owns her look, is unapologetic about the way she lives and there is a certain authenticity about the way she dresses – there is nothing gimmicky about her.” On the Indian front, he has worked with Tollywood actresses like Shriya Saran, Charmmee and Hansika. And he absolutely loves the way Deepika Padukone carries herself in a saree. Having dressed her for a promotional function recently, Anand reveals, “There is no vulgarity about her no matter what she wears. She could be wearing the tiniest of cholis, baring a huge midriff but she still looks gorgeous in a saree. She is not a slave to fashion and I would say she wears her clothes really well. There are others who dress well too but she doesn’t let the clothes wear her – whether it is Indian or western clothes.”

Another actress he raves about is Vidya Balan. Anand says, “I love her attitude and the fact that she can’t be bothered if the pallu is not pinned properly or the saree is bunching up. She is beyond all the stereotypical notions of a person in the glamour business and what would look shabby on anyone else she carries off perfectly. She is bigger than her clothes and her personality always conveys that.”

Fun and Stylish

Personal style is very important to Osman Abdul Razak, owner of the men’s fashion store Gabbana.Life in Chennai. He believes that we speak volumes before we say a word – through our wardrobe, personality and style. Says Osman, “Our clothes form a part of the total image as they are a reflection of the person. The imagery of dressing well is a reflection of who you are and how you live.”

Osman started out with an engineering degree, after which he went on to engineer people’s clothes and lifestyles. “With a family background invested in exporting garments in Chennai, it was no surprise that I was passionate about the fashion industry. For the last six years, I have steered my men’s fashion store as the style and fashion director. I work with only one rule in mind – make only what I would want to wear myself. This is why I love what I do.”

Osman believes that the worst thing that you can do to yourself is to be uncomfortable in something that you are wearing. The discomfort will always show in your body language and on your face. In his words, “Keep your personality in mind and don’t try to follow fashion trends blindly. Trends give you an insight on what’s out there, but at the same time, you should not forget the person that you are. Dress according to your body type and confidence level. A well-fitted, quality garment is a statement of masculinity; it has an aura that builds style and confidence,” he advises.

He is happy that a lot of men are actually willing to experiment with colour. “I haven’t seen men wear so much colour in a very long time. I must say that I am quite impressed by the number of men who are willing to try something new. It’s colour blocking all the way from here to the streets of Florence. It is similar to what the women were wearing last Spring/Summer. Men sporting neon brights, covetable shoes, and the “man bag” are such a welcome change.”

For this photo feature, Osman is dressed in clothes from his store Gabbana.Life.

The Zen Quotient

0

Swetha Reddy, motivational speaker and educational consultant talks to Richa Tilokani about her innovative workshops for students and about her dedication to helping people.

[wzslider height=”600″]

Swetha Reddy was always interested in helping people, so when she came accidentally came across Jack Canfield’s training program on Google, she was instantly hooked. She traveled to US to train under Jack, who is the author of ‘Success Principles’ and ‘Chicken Soup for the Soul’ series and is also one of the best motivational speakers in the world. She came back a certified trainer and in 2013, founded Kaizen which means “Change for the better” in Japanese

Shares Swetha on her incredible journey, “I hold a Master’s degree in Sociology and am a certified motivational trainer. This gives me a unique opportunity to offer focused guidance to help kids realize their true potential.” Swetha loves to work with kids; being a mother of two teenagers, she knows first- hand their challenges and aspirations and her workshops are tailor- made to address their concerns.

Rewarding Work

Elaborates Swetha on her work, “My work is my reward. When I receive positive feedback from my students, I feel very lucky to have helped them in my own way.” In her three hour mentoring workshops designed specially for teenagers, Swetha touches upon multiple areas that are crucial to their overall development. These include goal setting, confidence building and embracing feedback.

Adds Swetha, “In goal setting, I help the students discover what they are passionate about through introspective exercises and interaction and set a breakthrough goal with steps to follow every day in order to realise the goal. I then alter their responses if they do not achieve the desired outcome.”

To build their confidence, Swetha recognizes their strengths and help them develop a confident self-image. She also helps them develop clarity of thought and a belief in themselves. Through responsibility and social interaction, she guides them to assume personal responsibility and gently inculcates in them a sense of appreciation and gratitude for people around them. She also helps them embrace feedback by teaching them how to handle rejection with the right attitude and by being open to positive as well as negative feedback.

Achieving the goals

Swetha’s workshops are effective as they are simple and highly participative. Each workshop is limited to 20-24 participants to make them more personal. Participants are given workbooks that are designed to help them pursue their individual goals, in the weeks following the workshop. A subsequent follow- up is done to check on individual progress. She has even done corporate workshops for clients like Sundaram Fasteners. The other services offered by her include educational orientation sessions for students seeking to attend undergraduate colleges in the U.S. These can be facilitated by prior appointment.

In the near future, Swetha is planning to hold a women’s training workshop but she has not yet finalized the model or content. Ends Swetha as she says, “I am a workshop leader, so I always look for new way to create a difference. The topic is the same whether it is a workshop for teenagers or adults, it is just the content which changes. My goal is to help my participants by building their confidence and by teaching them organizational skills. I do not advocate perfection. I focus more on helping people learn from their mistakes so that they can work better, have more meaningful relationships and are able to lead fuller lives.”

Fashion’s Favorite

0

Designer Sanjay Garg from the label Raw Mango talks to Richa Tilokani about his latest collection, his sources of inspiration and his fail safe styling tips.

[wzslider height=”600″]

Sanjay Garg’s latest collection from Raw Mango –the “Southern Summer” comprises of contemporary Indian hand-woven handloom sarees and stoles rooted in Indian colors and designs. Sanjay believes that true luxury allows one to wear the best of one’s culture, namely exquisite handloom and hand woven creations.

From a young age, Sanjay knew that he wanted to be an entrepreneur. Being creative by nature, he always to work with his hands. He always thought he would end up working with textiles and he did just that by turning designer with Raw Mango. Through “Southern Summer,” Sanjay explores the common thread that binds the island with the Indian subcontinent, both historically and culturally.

Shares Sanjay, “I was always very fascinated by the commonality of culture of the south and of the countries of Thailand, Indonesia and Sri Lanka. They have a very unique and common thread running through them. My collection is a tribute to their beauty, depth and originality. They use a lot of checks, ikats etc which I have been deeply influenced by.”

Exotic India

Sanjay’s products reflect the skills of more than 450 craftspeople employed by him. They reflect his belief of working with contemporary Indian hand woven textiles crafted using traditional techniques. Says Sanjay, “Raw Mango was born out of a desire to rethink Indian fashion in a current context. The colors and designs are rooted in Indian philosophy and tradition, giving freedom to imagine a new platform for both.” His designs have breathed new life in traditional patterns and transformed them into modern, chic pieces.  Be it fabrics, sarees or stoles, each piece carries the mark of originality which is inherent in Sanjay’s creations.

Traditional fashion

Earlier, handloom sarees though still worn by a large number of women in India, were perceived to have little scope for new exploration. Raw Mango set about to change it by adapting the indigenous and traditional designs to create elegant hand woven textiles. This has given new life to an entire community of weavers and craftsmen who are transforming the garment for the new generation.

Sanjay does not hanker after Hollywood or Bollywood muses like many other designers. He says simply that he is already working with the icons he prefers to work with. It is this simple and uncluttered approach of Sanjay which is reflected in his designs and which make his creations a pleasure to watch out for by fashion lovers. Ends Sanjay as he shares his favorite fashion maxim, “Less is more. That’s a rule to always keep in mind while getting ready. For fall-winter, indigo and emerald greens are hot and don’t forget to enjoy the silks and shawls. Invest in pieces which you can wear for a long time.”

The collection was showcased at Amethyst, entrance next to Corporation Bank, Whites Road, Royapettah, Chennai.

Beautiful inside and out

0

She is a maverick on all counts. A single mother, an entrepreneur, a model and actress and now brand ambassador for Hyderabad Metro Rail. Meet one of Hyderabad’s best known people — Sarvamangala Chavali — whose brand of sarees and blouses — Anagha — continues to rise in popularity.

[wzslider height=”600″]

Fair and light eyed, tall and still very slim, Sarvamangala Chavali does not come across as your average Telugu woman. Her unconventional looks notwithstanding, she stands out for several reasons. Unlike many of her contemporaries, she chose to walk out of a marriage riddled with domestic abuse. Not even a graduate in this professional degree obsessed city, she has been a successful entrepreneur for over six years now.

Going down memory lane for Ritz, seated in her store, she says, “I started my career as an airhostess for Indian Airlines from 1986-89… In the days when the airline had a monopoly. Marriage and children followed and I used to manage my mother-in-law’s store which dealt in handloom sarees. But, after 18 years of domestic abuse and violence, I decided I could not take it any more and I walked out of my husband’s home.

Sarvamangala took a huge risk in doing so because she had to leave her children then 16 and 11 behind as she could not afford to keep them with her – something that hurts her even now. “I had no income or savings of my own and my dad is a pensioner. I had to have financial independence to support my kids. My son did not talk to me for six months and they were fed nuggets like ‘Your mother left you because she didn’t love you.’ But I continued to meet them everyday and cook for them on sundays. Later they understood who was right and came to live with me on their own. And I never had any guilt about my decision because I knew I was doing the right thing. They still meet their father and I don’t stop them at all. Today, my daughter is very close to me and my son is very supportive of all that I do.”

Her best friend since 9th grade – Dr Padma Vishnubhatla, her father and sister also supported her unconditionally.  Dr Padma suggested that Sarva as she is called something of her own. “Having studied only till class 12, getting a job would be tough and it was 2007 – recession year. But, since I had managed my mother-in-law’s shop for so long I knew what it took to run a business. I started Anagha which means beautiful. The weavers and printers sent me goods without ever asking about payment. I was blessed that I had support. I started this business with a Rs 5 lakh loan from my father. And because I did not have to pay interest, I was able to pay him back and recycle the profits back into the business.”

Anagha today is a well known brand and apart from extremely feminine and designer blouses, Sarva retails sarees — in cotton and silk — which incorporate a range of Indian arts and crafts — from embroidery to Kalamkari to block printing to just weaves. Mangalgiris, Kanchi cottons, Chanderis, tussars — are all available under one roof. She also stocks dupattas and salwar kameez unstitched sets. Sarva has made it a point to hire women — some of whom are differently abled — as staff and in her absence, they do a wonderful job of looking after clients. She reiterates, “It is very important to educate girls and make them financially independent so they need not put up with humiliation or abuse in a relationship – and have the choice of leaving. And it is equally important to teach boys to behave respectfully towards women.”

In recognition of her success, in November  2008, she was selected for the ISB GS 10000 women programme – a course to empower deserving women entrepreneurs with an education in Management. In July 2011, she received the Outstanding Woman Entrepreneur Award constituted by FAPCCI – barely three years after starting Anagha.

Sarva has also been acting in movies lately. How did Tollywood come about? She says, “A casting director saw my pictures on Facebook and he approached me to play the actor Navdeep’s mother in Oh My Friend which released in 2011. ThenSeetamma Vakettlo Sirimalle Chettu followed in Jan 2013 and since then I have acted in six or seven movies five of which are due to release this year.” Her costars have been Mahesh Babu, Venkatesh, Siddharth, Isha Talwar and Anupam Kher. I ask her what it was like to work with the veteran actor. She says,”It is a Yash Raj Films production and I cannot talk about my role. But watching Mr Kher was a learning experience. He is so particular about how a shot should look and the level of preparation he does for every shot. At times, even if the director was happy with the shot, Mr Kher would ask for a retake as he was not satisfied. It was a very good and interesting experience and the high point of my acting career.”

Speaking of Facebook, Sarva is extremely adept at marketing her creations on the site. She credits her kids for helping her go online with her sarees and dupattas and there is never a day when one doesn’t see happy motivating messages or drool worthy sarees with sexy cholis up on her wall. I ask her what motivates her to stay happy and positive. She says, “It was not easy initially. After 18 years of being told you are worthless and good for nothing, you actually start believing it and it takes some time to undo the emotional damage. But with the help of my friend I was able to do so and I believe life is too short to keep clinging to the past. It is best to move on and stay positive no matter what.”

Today she is the best representative of her brand. Always well turned out in one of her own beautiful creations with jewellery to match, Sarva even models for her own label — “I didn’t have money to pay models so decided to do so myself when I started, now I just continue doing so.” She has also modelled for The Hindu and for Vencobb chicken. Also, since she loved dressing up, creating designs and combinations for her sarees was not so difficult though she does have a team of designers who work with her. Unlike some others in the city who like to flaunt their A lister clients, Sarva is different in that she considers all her clients to be celebrities. “I have housewives who run up bills of large amounts when they come here to shop. And some celebrities have actually walked in asking for freebies. So why would I not consider my real clients to be my celebrities?” she quizzes.

Of late however, it has been her selection as one of the brand ambassadors for Hyderabad Metro Rail that have kept her in the news. She says, “I just applied for the campaign on a lark and I didn’t think that I would win. But when I realised I had beaten several known entrepreneurs to be declared one of the the winners, I was quite thrilled. Right now there is not much to do except create awareness about the Metro but I guess closer to the time of the actual launch, I will be more involved as a brand ambassador.”

Plans now are afoot to have a full fledged online store and while she continues being her happy self, Sarva quietly pays for the education of two young girls and does her bit for the cause of women and weavers through her store.

She remains a shining role model for women everywhere and hopes to meet her soulmate soon.

Beyond the gitz and glam

0

The world of modelling is unlike any other. The lifespan of a model is short lived and the competition – sky high. Still there are many who love the limelight and choose to enter the fashion industry looking to make their mark. Anirudh Banagiri has been a model for six years and Sadhna Singh for nine. While Anirudh also works as the director of Star Brand Inc., a casting and endorsement company, and dreams of one day being a Show Stopper at the Milan Fashion Week, Sadhna is a full time model who wants to open an NGO to aide animal welfare along with being a Choreographer and a Boutique owner. These experienced models answer the tough questions we have all wanted hear.

[wzslider height=”600″]

1.How did you get spotted?

Anirudh: Well I am tall, fair, and I wear an attitude on my face; and that’s what is required to be a model so it was quite easy to spot me. (laughs)

Sadhna: I was in a Frankfinn course and my institute had conducted a Miss Frankfinn South contest.  We were sent to Mr. Imran Khan for walking practice and that’s when he offered me my first show for the new years in Vizag.

2. What was your first pay?

Anirudh: My first pay was Rs. 4000/-
Sadhna: My first pay was Rs. 3000/-

3. Why do you like modelling?

Anirudh: It is a break for me where I get to get away and be confident. It is also great fun.
Sadhna: I can really breathe on the runway. Everything about modelling is beautiful, the makeup, hair, outfits, travel, meeting new people, learning to laugh in stress just before the show starts. Also there are people showing up to watch me, which elevates my selfworth.

4. What do you hate about modelling?

Anirudh: There is absolutely nothing I can hate about modelling.
Sadhna: Hate would be too strong a word but I dislike some people who use this industry to bring out their dark side.

5. Can you share any unsavoury incidents involving choreographers, clients, organisers etc that you feel need not have happened or could have been handled better?

Anirudh: The biggest reason I enjoy modelling is because of the feeling of freedom it gives me and also what it does for my self-esteem to have the confidence to stand in front of a camera or audience. I also get to see what else my body can become, or how I can be made to look like (especially figure drawings). To me, that’s really fascinating. Any unsavoury incidents are few and far apart and don’t compare to the positives I take away from the profession.
Sadhna:  By God’s grace I have not encountered too many such situations. But I remember when I was new to Mumbai I had went to a meeting for a print advertisement and the client had called me to a very strange small lodge to meet. I was new to the industry and innocent enough to go there to meet him in his room. There were three other heavy uncles sitting and drinking in the room at 5pm. The moment I entered I knew I was not safe and that I had to act accordingly! The client then offered me 3lakhs to do the shoot plus ‘be’ with him. I knew if I rejected the offer he wouldn’t have let me go, so I got up and said, “Sure I’ll do whatever you like but now I have another meeting so I’ll back in an hour.” They let me go but the moment I came out I ran on to the road and called my dad. That was the first time that I cried the whole day because I was terrified! It was a terrible experience but after that I became a much more alert and smart.

6. Have you been involved in ramp walk faux pas or any wardrobe malfunction situation even if it was just a badly fitted dress or tear that had to be hidden?

Anirudh: No.
Sadhna: Not once but quite a few times. Just before the show my outfit’s zip broke and I walked holding the garment together on the side. In one show I had no time and had to rush to my second change which was a saree; my helper tied it so tight that I got on ramp and walked exactly three steps when I had to turn back because it was way too tight to walk in. But these minor things are funny incidents.

7. We have heard stories about models being cramped in a single room to spend the night due to budget constraints. Have you faced such struggles?

Anirudh: I have never faced such situations.
Sadhna: Oh no never! I have been lucky enough to be able to work with a good standard of people. I don’t compromise on comfort and I would walk out if I find such scenarios.
I model because I love the runway and the camera.

8. What’s your say on the comparison of models in the South with those from the North? Are South models being sidelined?

Anirudh: South models don’t get the Anirudhe opportunities to be groomed compared to those in the North. South models need more fashion shows and more photoshoots so that they can be migrated to other cities. The scope here is quite low; also the society out here is quite conservative.
Sadhna: I don’t agree that south models are sidelined. Most of my model friends from South are doing extremely well for themselves and a few have also reached Paris.  At the end of the day it’s how good a model you are and not where you come from.  For example most of the actors living in Mumbai are not from Mumbai but many are successful. It is you who can reach the top based on your talent and nothing can pull you down or sideline you if you know your aim and goal in life.

9. Do South Indian models need to embrace the “size zero” trend?

Anirudh: Yes, definitely.
Sadhna: To be honest we Indian models are not all size zero. Size zero is embraced well by European models. Hum toh khaate peethe desh ke hai. (laughs) But one definitely needs to be fit enough to make the garment look it’s best on the runway because for a designer, jo dikhtha hai woh bikta hai, so one must be fit and in shape.

10. How is the experience of walking ramps up at North? How different is it from down South?

Anirudh: The on ramp experiences are quite similar but I believe that models particularly in the South should have another job because there are very few fashion shows or shoots happening here.
Sadhna: Audiences in the North are more active fashion lovers and enjoy a fashion show. I love to see an active crowd and it is a treat to your eyes to have a fashionable crowd.

11. Models from the North have far more exposure and are regularly used by international brands. comment.

Anirudh: As I said the scope for grooming is lower here so that is something that needs to be worked on.
Sadhna: Yes that’s because of a lack of productive agencies or casting companies here. We don’t have the right agents to reach these international brands.

12. What do you feel about the advent of foreign models and how they have influenced the ramp walk trends?

Anirudh: It has both positive and negative effects.
Sadhna: Foreign models are given more footage when compared to an Indian in India. There are two reasons for this. One they agree to work for far lesser rates and two they are not particular about what one makes them wear. I was shocked when I was in Delhi recently and I went for a casting with a Polish girl. They rejected me because the client wants a foreign girl for saree ad but wants the foreign girl to look like an Indian; I don’t understand the logic. When a product is being sold, if I was a client, I would want to make an ad in such a way that my audience can relate to it and not be put off but thinking, ‘oh this saree looks good on a European but how would it look on me?’ This colour discrimination is a shame and the biggest disadvantage for Indian models.

13. Are fair models preferred more as compared to dark-skinned ones?

Anirudh: I feel that one place on earth where there is no racism is in the modelling industry.
Sadhna: Absolutely.

14. Can you comment on the fashion culture down South? Have you ever been in a situation where you have regretted being from the South?

Anirudh: No I’ve never regretted it.
Sadhna: I am a Rajput but brought up in South. I am happy and proud about it. The South has a very simple yet elegant style and culture.

15. What is your beauty and exercise regimen like?

Anirudh: Eat healthy, work out daily, be happy.
Sadhna: I am a complete foodie but yes I try n not miss my gym. I work out for an hour everyday and God’s gifted me with great genes so I remain in shape no matter what I eat.

16. Any interesting incidents involving shows you have done, people you have worked with etc.?

Anirudh: Every show is filled with such incidents. They are all moments to savour.
Sadhna: I love being backstage with my friends. There are so many stories, we are constantly laughing. In one particular incident, my dear friend Priyanka Shah, who is an amazing person, comes backstage to get ready for the show. We had to carry our own heels and as the show was about to begin she realised that she had got two different heels for the same foot. I couldn’t stop laughing as she wore them and walked out on the ramp.

17. Can you talk about clients and how different they are from each other?

Anirudh: Everyone has different preferences.
Sadhna: Each client is different in their preference of looks or height. There can be a day when a client doesn’t want skinny girl but it doesn’t make one a bad model.

18. Do you get movie offers? Not many South models have been able to transition from the ramp to films. What’s your take on that?

Anirudh: Yes I have received offers and they are being discussed.
Sadhna: The South crowd likes healthy actresses.  And models are not as healthy so that could be the reason.

19. What’s your take on beauty pageants and the process involved? How helpful is it to be a beauty queen in order to further your modelling career?

Anirudh: Sadhna would be better to answer that.
Sadhna: Beauty pageants are great platforms for new girls. It gives you a good exposure, and the training process makes you a different person altogether. Winning the crown is great but nothing comes easy.

20. There used to be a stigma against modelling in conservative South Indian families. How have your folks treated your choice of career?

Anirudh: My mother always supported me and my dad initiated me to join the gym and become regular at it.
Sadhna: My parents initially were not so too happy because they wanted me to study and do a job or be in government sector. But after few months they became my strongest support pillars. They have stood by me for the last eight years.

Designer Alert!

0

The recently concluded Lakme Fashion Week in Mumbai was a grand affair, what with the best of India’s established and upcoming designers showcasing beautiful attires with much elan. Kavita Shyam picks a few designers with whom we indulged in a quick chat on their collection and more on their fashionable fare…

[wzslider height=”600″]

Showcasing at Lakme Fashion Week, do you feel more in connect with the event now:
This is my first year showcasing at Lakme Fashion Week and I feel blessed to have had such a wonderful opportunity to present my creations to the public.

 Your spring summer collection:  ‘Tri – Faceted’ is a collection of evening dresses and separates inspired by the geometric lines & architecture of the famed self taught Japanese Architect Tadao Ando. It is commonly said about erstwhile truck driver and boxer “Ando’s architectural style is said to create a haiku effect, emphasizing nothingness and empty space to represent the beauty of simplicity.” I have taken on the challenging task of translating some of those ideas into designing accouterments.

I have used geometry to generate minimalist lines, bold forms and subtle textures; teaming the basic contours with colour blocking in rich, bold and vibrant shades contrasted with greys and blacks.

Lakme has a pre-required statement that you have to follow, but as a designer do you prefer finding a muse, an inspiration and then working around it or designs are a free flowing process: I spend my free time researching, reading and photographing different things. My inspiration for a collection is usually something that I have come across that fascinates and excites me. When inspiration for the next collection strikes, I almost immediately start visualizing what the clothes will look like. Then I delve deeper into the subject, research some more and then begin sketching. It is a very organic process and often I go back and forth between research and design. But yes, to answer your question, I do find it extremely important to look at something to inspire my design. It helps add a new dimension to each collection and gives a narrative to the design process.

You doing anything with this collection that is different from what you usually like to do: The last collection I did was an entirely black and white collection. This collection is a play on color and has a completely new colour palette to it.

Fabrics, styles, cuts, embellishments, colors, you have used for the collection. Also you predictions for the season: This season I worked with three color palettes – starting with bright orange and fuchsia, then going into deeper cobalt blue and violet and a dramatic shift into moodier charcoal grey and black. Since this is primarily an evening wear collection, I have used a variety of silks – ranging from locally available hand woven silks to refined chinese silk twills and silk georgettes. Geometric cutouts are an element that is echoed through most of the collection. You will see them in both subtle and exaggerated forms. Since its Summer I kept the embellishments to a bare minimum using geometric beadwork in some key pieces and focused on fabric texturing for my remaining pieces.

Where is the ‘Veda Raheja’ woman vacationing this summer: I would picture a ‘Veda Raheja’ woman vacationing somewhere in the Mediterranean belt or relaxing in a luxurious resort.

Is there a particular ritual, superstition that you follow right before your show! Like perhaps you like to have a biryani or Pepperoni Pizza before the show: The day of the show is generally so chaotic, however I make sure that I have 2 minutes of this time to breathe and relax myself before going out there.

A clotheshorse according to you and the show-stopper for your collection: This could be any of the above as long as she brings her personality to the clothes. It is key that the design aesthetic of the brand is in sync with the personality of its muse. Monica Dogra, the muse and show- stopper for this season is spunky, edgy, and has effortless style.

Inspiration for your latest collection: The inspirations for my collections are invariably different genres of art and architecture.

What’s next for you: For now I am working towards getting this collection into stores. Then it will be time to work on the Autumn- Winter collection and I also hope to do a menswear line soon.

5 minutes with designer Anushka Khanna
You’re showcasing at Lakme Fashion Week, do you feel more in connect with the event now:
Lakme Fashion Week is one of the most reputed fashion weeks in our country. This is my fourth season with LFW and their team has always supported me throughout my growth as a designer.

Your spring summer collection: My latest collection is called ‘Boom Boom Bloom’. The idea of clothes that can be trans-seasonal was one of the inspirations behind these designs. I wanted to create a collection that can be worn through the entire year and not anchor to one particular season.

Lakme has a pre-required statement that you have to follow, but as a designer do you prefer finding a muse, an inspiration and then working around it or designs are a free flowing process: Every season has a different thought process behind the inspirations. In the past I have collaborated with artists to create whole collections. This year i was inspired by a photograph of my mother in the Seventies, this really set off the idea of dark, almost moody florals. I’ve taken that motif through print and embellishment.

Are you doing anything with this collection that is different from what you usually like to do: Boom Boom Bloom is a blend of floral and abstract that come together to create a unique look. I have definitely tried to evolve as a designer but have maintained my signature strengths of embellishments, bead work and classic silhouettes.

Fabrics, styles, cuts, embelishments, colours, you have used for the collection: For this collection the colours I have predominantly used are Burgandy, Olive, Burnt Orange, Gold Lame etc. Embellishments like beadwork, threadwork, cutwork and sequin detailing complete the looks. Floral motifs & prints and metallic influence are predicted to rule this season

Where is the ‘Anushka Khanna’ woman vacationing this summer: The French Riviera or Monaco would be the ideal destination for vacationing this summer

Is there a particular ritual, not necessarily religious or superstitious, that you follow right before your show? Like perhaps you like to have a biryani, dal chawal or Pepperoni Pizza before the show: I dont have a ritual in particular but i do like to spend a lot of time with my family and close friends as this helps calm me down right before my show.

A clotheshorse according to you and your show-stopper: I did not have a celebrity showstopper for my collection. My finale garment is something i concentrated on, it was a orange one shoulder gown with heavy embellishments and beadwork.

What has been the inspiration for your latest collection: The inspiration for my latest collection Boom Boom Bloom was some of my mothers old photographs. As soon as i had seen those i knew i wanted to do florals this season but in darker tones.

5 minutes with designer Nikhil Thampi
You’re showcasing at Lakme Fashion Week, do you feel more in connect with the event now: Yes, definitely. This has been my fifth year with Lakme Fashion Week and the feeling is absolutely wonderful.

So what’s your spring summer collection about: My spring summer collection depicts the power of the sexes and their freedom to uninhibited expression. The two main key elements used are the zip detailing and rose gold metallic flowers.

Lakme has a pre-required statement that you have to follow, but as designer do you prefer finding a muse, an inspiration and then working around it or designs are a free flowing process: I generally work with an inspiration and follow a particular theme. However, I firmly believe that fashion should be a free flowing process.

Are you doing anything with this collection that is different from what you usually like to do: I always work towards surprising my audiences by presenting them with different collections at any given point of time. Through our label we try to provide both men and women with a wardrobe filled with variety.

Fabrics, styles, cuts, embellishments, colors, you have used for the collection: With regard to colours, it is definitely pastels all the way. Colours such as rose pinks, dusty nudes and purple orchids are a good prediction for this season. Also, boyfriend trousers and shirts on women are something to look out for!

Where is the ‘Nikhil Thampi’ woman vacationing this summer: Some place breezy and bright; maybe the mountains or shuttling her way through the busy lanes of a fashion city.

Is there a particular ritual, not necessarily religious or superstitious, that you follow right before your show: Before anything important in my life, I religiously seek the blessings of my late grandparents. This is something that I have always done and will continue to do in the future.

A clotheshorse according to you and your show-stopper: As pioneers of fashion, we tend to always keep fashion for us in the forefront. In spite of being the ‘Bollywood Boy’, I would love to see celebrities come down in support during my fashion shows.

The inspiration for your latest collection: The collection was an amalgamation of new-age, urbane sophistication highlighting elements to depict a woman’s personalities. ‘Love & let love’ was the thought that dominates this compilation and traced the transition of an individual breaking free from the shackles of social acceptance and showcasing their true identities.

What’s next for you: The next step will include expansion of the brand, going international (fingers crossed) and cool, interesting collaborations.

5 minutes with designer Anita Dongre
You’re showcasing at Lakme Fashion Week, do you feel more in connect with the event now: I’ve been showcasing at Lakme Fashion Week for a couple of years now and it surely stands as one of the most promising platforms for designers and a brewing ground for creativity, fashion and innovation. Each year is so much more progressive than the previous one- so many new designers, so much more talent, sustainable fashion being brought to the fore-front, fashion going digital- its not just about only showcasing your collection on the ramp.

So what’s your spring summer collection about: My Lakme Fashion Week collection is a celebration of the glorious cotton weaves of Varanasi. Its a tribute to the rich Indian culture and textiles. Elegant and understated, the collection is an eclectic melange of pret separates matched with couture elements for a boho luxury feel. The beautiful application of this simple fabric through a variety of patterned waves and light embroideries injects an element of freshness in the collection. I have consciously stayed away from heavy embellishments or embroidery for a simple elegant summer look. Even the color palette has a surreal vintage charm with hues of old rose, powder blues, buttercup yellows and lots of white seen in the collection

Lakme has a pre-required statement that you have to follow, but as a designer do you prefer finding a muse, an inspiration and then working around it or designs are a free flowing process: My muse has always been the modern independent urban woman. She’s progressive in her thought process yet very Indian at heart. She seeks a blend of functionality and fantasy in her fashion choices and is super confident in her skin. There is true beauty in a woman who believes in herself and has the determination to turn her dreams into reality- that’s my muse!

Are you doing anything with this collection that is different from what you usually like to do: As I mentioned, I’ve kept the LFW collection very contemporary chic highlighted with cotton weaves of Varanasi. The fact that its understated and elegant yet so chic is what sets it apart. It resonates with the beliefs and ideologies of a modern Indian woman. Beauty in simplicity.

Fabrics, styles, cuts, embelishments, colours, you have used for the collection: Tonal embroidery and subtle bead-work lend charm to the collection. As I said, no heavy embellishments or embroidery. Silhouettes move from straight cuts to flares with geometric patterns as a key element in the collection. A very refreshing summer friendly color palette has been used- Old rose, powder blues, yellows and whites dominate a collection of column gowns, flared pants, crop tops, voluminous skirts etc

Where is the ‘Anita Dongre’ woman vacationing this summer: She’s most likely to be romancing the beauty of Europe this summer.

Is there a particular ritual, not necessarily religious or superstitious, that you follow right before your show: Say a little prayer.

A clotheshorse according for you and who is your showstopper: Dia Mirza was the showstopper for my LFW Varanasi Weaves collection. I have always admired Dia as a person- shes a keen philanthropist and a supporter of sustainable energy and fashion- Dia reinforces the values of an Anita Dongre woman- a woman whose beauty lies in her strength and determination, her ability to dream and her desire to soar.

What has been the inspiration for your latest collection: Rajasthan has been a strong inspirational force for me. I spent my growing up years there and am utterly fascinated with the splendor of their architecture, the colorful and rich heritage, the busy bazaars, the women …everything about that place inspires me.

What’s next for you: Am currently preparing for my show at Wills India Fashion Week in Delhi on 30th March , where i’ll be showcasing my Autumn Winter collection ” An Urban Folk Tale”

5 minutes with designer Urvashi Joneja
You’re showcasing at Lakme Fashion Week, do you feel more in connect with the event now:
Lakme Fashion week is a great platform for new designers. And it’s an amazingly well coordinated and well organized event which makes it even better for me.

Your spring summer collection:

The collection termed “Unchained” took its inspiration from finding beauty in constriction, and freedom from restrictions and rules. In particular, the collection draws its inspiration from the extreme and prohibitive societal and cultural practices that have defined beauty, such as the “Lotus feet” (Chinese foot binding). Form draping, deconstruction and creative patternmaking are key components that have lent to the silhouettes of this collection. Yards of fabric have been twisted precariously to make rope that has been used as an embellishment, while unique textures and leather cutwork also add to the detailing on the garments. The result is a look that is modern and unrestrictive.

Lakme has a pre-required statement that you have to follow, but generally do you, as a designer prefer finding a muse, an inspiration and then working around it or do you think design should be a free flowing process: Design, for me, is a free flowing process, and what I start out with is hardly reminiscent of what I end up with. It is about growing everyday, as a designer, with the inspiration and interpreting it in a new and better way. As for a muse, I think every real and strong woman, be it on the street, in a magazine, or in the media, serves as an inspiration for me. Their stories serve as an inspiration.

Is the collection different from what you usually like to do: I have experimented with textures and fabric more in this collection, and I have loved my process of design evolution.

 Fabrics, styles, cuts, embelishments, colours, you have used for the collection. Also you predictions for the season: I have used contrasting fabrics like georgettes, chanderis, raw silk and duppion silk. The color story is mainly black and white with shades of orchid and metallics thrown in. I think the monochrome color story is big this season.

Where is the ‘Urvashi Joneja” woman vacationing this summer: In a quaint location be it in India or abroad. Close to nature.

Is there a particular ritual, not necessarily religious or superstitious, that you follow right before your show: Lots of coffee, lots!

Clotheshorse according to you and your show-stopper: I did not have a showstopper.

What’s next for you: An exciting new collection and a new season, and taking the current collection forward. I am exploring a lot of new ideas with fabrics that I am looking forward to, for the new season.

5 minutes with designer Sonaakshi Raaj
Showcasing at Lakme Fashion Week, do you feel more in connect with the event now:
Absolutely, this is my third season with them. I have seen immense growth, had great response and it sure is an amazing platform.

Your spring summer collection:  It’s feminine, for the woman of today. Its inspired from the Broadway fashion in terms of the look, cuts, detailing, the cutout backs etc.

Lakme has a pre-required statement that you have to follow, but as a designer do you prefer finding a muse, an inspiration and then working around it or designs are a free flowing process: Design is vital and all other things are secondary which follow.

Anything differnt with this collection than what you usually do: Each collection is an extension of what I like to wear, my style. Here we have newer drapes in sari gowns, cuts, use of sheer and embroidery.

Fabrics, styles, cuts, embellishments, colors, you have used for the collection. Also you predictions for the season: Fluid fabrics, satin, georgettes, sheer, tulles in spring, fresh hues. Colours like moss green, aqua green, corals, turquoise will be seen. Intricate detailing with beads and thread, stone, appliqué work are a big on my designs. This season will see a lot of bustiers with sari-gowns or high waisted skirts or zippers on sari-gowns.

Where is the ‘Veda Raheja’ woman vacationing this summer: At the destination weddings in Bali or Istanbul.

A clotheshorse according to you and the show-stopper for your collection: All the girls are superb. I love Deepika and Sonam. My show stopper Prachi Desai is a friend, she is feminine and young.

Inspiration for your latest collection: Anything dramatic, young and fun.

What’s next for you: Lots in the pipeline. Wait and watch! 

So here’s how the fashion designers envelop you in their stylish folds.

1...1,5931,5941,595...1,644Page 1,594 of 1,644

Actress Gallery

Actress

Smoking Hot 🔥 Raashii Khanna

Vasanth Pyarilal - 0
Check out the latest photoshoot pictures of Actress Raashii Khanna 

Sizzling Sakshi Agarwal…! 🔥

Actress

Elegant: Iswarya Menon’s Photoshoot Pictures ❤️

Actress

Ravishing Rakul Preet Singh 😍

Actress

Hansika Motwani Latest Photoshoot Pictures

Actress

Actor Gallery

Advertisement
RITZ
RITZ as you may very well know, is South India’s largest read Lifestyle magazine & the winner of the NDTV-Hindu Lifestyle Award for Best Lifestyle Magazine as well as the Best Magazine of the Year (South) Award from the multi-billion dollar Lulu Group, beating national and regional publications across South by public voting.
RITZ is the only magazine in South India which has exclusive access to the biggest Forbes-listed industrialists, political leaders, sportspersons, and A-list film stars and we regularly bring them all together for various events, we have conducted so far.
Contact us: admin@ritzmagazine.in
Facebook Instagram Twitter Youtube
© 2026 RITZ MAGAZINE | All rights reserved