Physical stores . From festive greetings to custom keepsakes, this shop has been spreading holiday cheer for five decades. They offer a wide range of options, from Christmas designs featuring Santa and his elves to Christmas cards featuring the Nativity scene with a variety of different embellishments inside some. Cards with custom text are also available for orders of minimum 50 cards, while photo personalisation begins at minimum of 100 cards. AT Satyam Collection, Chheda Sadan Building, Churchgate. TIME 9.30 am to 8 pm (Monday to Saturday)CALL 242138800COST Rs 30 onwards . A craft shop brings back the charm of old-school Christmas cards with sacred illustrations and blessings. Sold in as single-buy cards as well as in packs of five with vintage floral envelopes, these cards are perfect gifts for spreading festive cheer to your loved ones. AT Itsy Bitsy, Korum Mall, Mangal Pandey Road, off Eastern Express Highway, Thane West. TIME 10.30 am to 9.30 pm CALL 6366951536 COST Rs 50 onwards . Head here for Christmas-themed cards in the classic red, green and gold shades. They also sell Christmas décor and festive merchandise. AT Satyam Gallery, Lakhamsi Napoo Road, Matunga Railway Colony, Matunga East. TIME 10 am to 9 pm CALL 9321489062 COST Rs 60 onwards . This has been a go-to gifting haunt for years, offering over 50 unique card designs, including pop-up cards and Christmas tree-themed styles, it’s a treasure trove for Christmas shopping.AT Archies Gallery, Natasha Shopping Centre, Hill Road Bandra West. TIME 10.30 am to 9.30 pm CALL 9820797337 COST Rs 50 onwards . This veritable goldmine offers a wide range of cards designed to capture the festive spirit. Choose from 12 different types of prints and traditional motifs to a variety of card sizes with options available across price ranges.AT St Paul Book And Art Centre, St Paul Media Complex, Duruelo Convent School, Bandra West. TIME 9 am to 7 pm (Monday to Saturday); 9.30 am to 7 pm (Sunday) CALL 226407127COST Rs 12 onwards Take the e-route . With an eclectic range of hand painted and illustrated Christmas cards which have been digitised for the perfect wish, this platform has cracked the code of Christmas warmth. They offer regular and express deliveries pan-India.LOG ON TO @skyforapalette on Instagram COST Rs 125 onwards . From classic Christmas designs to quirky and cute Santa cards, they offer an affordable and festive range of greeting cards for everyone.LOG ON TO thepeppystore.inCOST Rs 100 onwards . Switch to sustainable gifting options this Christmas with these seed-based cards and envelopes made with 100% post-consumer waste cotton. These greetings are available in the form of single-buy cards as well as sets. LOG ON TO plantables.storeCOST Rs 149 onwards . With Christmas postcards in sets of five, a special secret Santa card with a hidden surprise, and even a light-up card, this e-store is sure to add a touch of magic to your holiday greetings.LOG ON TO oyehappy.comCOST Rs 200 onwards
25 November,2024 11:32 AM IST | Mumbai | The Guide TeamIt is in our postal addresses,” says the 34-year-old illustrator who goes by the pseudonym Bao, when we ask her where one might see the lines of caste in a city that prides itself on being a great equaliser. “When I mention Deonar or Mahul, there’s a palpable change in the tone of the conversation. These localities have historically been synonymous with lower class and Bahujan populations,” she explains. Jai Bhim Nagar features on the January panel as a timely reminder of the ongoing struggle From the 1971 inauguration of Dr BR Ambedkar’s cremation site, Chaityabhoomi in Dadar by daughter-in-law Meerabai Ambedkar, to the ongoing struggle for basic rights by the Dalit community in Powai’s Jai Bhim Nagar, the artist’s new calendar takes Mumbaikars on a walk through the landmarks of the anti-caste movement hidden amidst the evolving urban-scape. Dr BR Ambedkar and the Chaityabhoomi pillar feature in the April panel Bao’s journey begins from her home turf in Chembur, which was once a hub of migrant labourers who worked in its dumping grounds and the refineries. “I stepped out to talk to residents of all of these localities to unearth the oral histories. It wasn’t a surprise to me when I found that caste intersected with the class struggle. Even within lower-income slums, there are clear demarcations between upper-caste and Bahujan settlements. For them, the struggle for a dignified life is ongoing,” she shares. Bao On the southern tip of the city, Bao finds a similar story. While the Ambedkar Nagar slums behind the Backbay Bus Depot saw mass displacement during the communal riots of 1992 and 1993, residents of Geeta Nagar on the southern tip of Colaba rose in revolt in 1995 against eviction drives through the Geeta Nagar Rahivasi Sangh and Geeta Nagar Mahila Vikas Sangh. Bao reminds us that it would be remiss of us to not address the birthplace of the Dalit Panthers in the city. “Namdeo Dhasal, the literary legend who led the Panthers in the 1970s and ’80s found strength and solidarity in the streets across the BDD Chawl in Kamathipura. One of my artworks features a black panther leaping forward as an ode to Dhasal,” she adds. Talking about calendars, we ask the artist, who most recently started a moving (literally) anti-caste reading club that travels on Mumbai locals, how the year that is drawing to a close has been. “There have been slivers of hope and moments of disappointment,” she reveals. The artist recalls visiting the ongoing struggle between the residents of Jai Bhim Nagar in Powai and the authorities over a proposed resettlement. “It is a historically documented fact that when reclamation or redevelopment project starts taking shape, the marginalised communities are the first to take a hit. The hope comes from the fact that young, English-speaking youth are now actively documenting and working towards a brighter future,” she signs off. LOG ON TO @thebigfatbao (to pre-order) COST Rs 4,000
25 November,2024 09:25 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleIn a recent interview, filmmaker Kiran Rao shared a rare glimpse into what co-parenting her son Azad with Bollywood actor Aamir Khan has been like — describing the co-parenting process as ‘tricky’ due to her superstar ex-husband’s busy schedule, she mentioned doing most of the parenting when the couple was still married, with Khan becoming more involved only since their separation in 2021. Rao’s candid revelations struck a familiar chord with many parents, whether together or separated, across the country. Parent trap“Co-parenting has certain inherent challenges, regardless of whether the parents are separated or together. Some of the biggest challenges is the distribution of responsibilities — one parent may feel burdened with being assigned most child-related tasks, as Rao did during her marriage to Khan. This imbalance can lead to frustration if one parent is seen as the ‘primary parent’ while the other is more of an occasional participant. Over time, this can create resentment and diminish collaborative parenting,” points out Namrata Jain, a counselling psychologist. She adds that jealousy between parents and among siblings (if there are multiple children) can be another major concern. For instance, if one parent becomes the ‘fun’ or ‘permissive’ parent while the other enforces rules, a child might gravitate towards the less disciplinary parent. Namrata Jain and Dr Naazneen Ladak Similarly, co-parents may experience jealousy if one parent is perceived as having a closer or stronger bond with the child. “Traditional gender roles often complicate the co-parenting process, especially if societal norms dictate one parent [often the mother] to be the primary caregiver, and the other [often the father] to be the financial provider. These expectations may hamper fathers from developing equal caregiving roles, leaving them feeling less competent in parenting tasks. Mothers, in turn, might become reluctant to relinquish responsibilities or may feel overwhelmed by the load,” Jain continues, highlighting that even in modern societies, men may struggle to fully participate in caregiving, not because of a lack of willingness but due to societal stereotypes about masculinity and parenting. She notes that this equation often improves post separation, noting that Khan’s scenario isn’t an aberration but rather the norm. Childish concernsIf co-parenting causes constant fights or tension between partners, regardless of their martial scenario, it can harm the child’s sense of security, says Dr Naazneen Ladak, a psychiatrist and mental health expert. “Children can feel trapped between their parents or worry they must pick a side. Even if the parents can’t always get along, they must stay calm and work together for the child’s sake. The focus should always be on creating a safe and loving environment for the child,” she says. Dr Nahid Dave and Dr Samir Dalwai Jain lays down a few parameters as basic guidelines for all parents. . Prioritise communication: Clear and respectful communication about parenting goals, child-specific needs and expectations is essential. Avoid using the children as messengers between homes, and instead maintain a direct line of communication to resolve issues quickly. . Create a consistent routine: Consistency in routines, discipline and expectations across both homes is critical for the child’s sense of security. Contradicting each other’s rules can lead to confusion and manipulation attempts by the children. . Focus on the child’s well-being, not your feelings: Personal conflicts must take a backseat to the child’s emotional and mental needs. This means setting aside differences and creating an atmosphere where children can feel loved, safe, and free from the tension of parental conflicts. . Set boundaries with new partners: When new partners are involved, it’s crucial to have boundaries and clear communication around their role in the children’s lives to avoid confusion and feelings of instability. Dr Ladak notes that while grandparents can be a source of love, security and stability, especially during changes such as separation, their role should support the parents’ efforts, and not interfere. If grandparents intervene too much or contradict parenting decisions, it can confuse the child. Clear boundaries are essential to make sure grandparents contribute positively to the child’s well-being. At the same time, it’s important for everyone involved in the parenting process to not contradict or overrule any ground rules that have been laid down for the child — whether in relation to academics, curfews, extracurricular activities, disciplining or any other aspect that is important to the child’s development, says Dr Nahid Dave, a psychiatrist at Thought Matters. “Any deviations must be consented to by the parent who has primary custody of the child. It is important for the secondary parent to not overrule any established boundaries or parameters in the child’s presence. Even if you can’t be amicable with your separated partner, avoid speaking negatively about them to the child. Do not unload your emotional baggage on the child. Make sure this is also communicated to other family members as well,” she clarifies. Dr Samir Dalwai, a developmental paediatrician and spokesperson for the Indian Academy of Paediatrics, prefers to address co-parenting as a partnership, not just between the spouses but also between the parents and the children, the grandparents, as well as the other individuals who are assigned caregiving duties, including the staff of the household. “It takes a village to raise a child, and today’s nuclear family structures mean that the nature of this village is changing. Be mindful of all the links in this chain and the extent of their involvement in the caregiving process,” he says. A case for equality?While many parents are challenging established norms and are eager to divide responsibilities more equally, the experts agree that parenting doesn’t have to be perfectly equal to be effective. “What matters is that both parents are involved in meaningful ways. A parent who spends less time but is fully engaged and emotionally present can make just as much impact. The focus should always be on the child’s emotional and mental needs. It’s not about dividing time evenly — it’s about being there when it matters most,” says Dr Ladak. Jain adds that seeking a perfectly equal division of duties may be unrealistic as life circumstances and individual strengths naturally vary between parents. “One parent may excel at helping with academics while the other brings value through emotional support. Successful co-parenting doesn’t mean an exact split but rather a balanced involvement where both parents contribute to the child’s growth and happiness,” she signs off. Case Studies Meghna Ghodawat with her family Have your support systemFor entrepreneur Meghna Ghodawat, who is juggling raising two sons with her fledgling businesses, the key to successful co-parenting lies in acceptance and in having the right support systems. “In our family, my husband has always been the financial provider while I am involved in the children’s day-to-day routine. My husband spends time with them over the weekends and oversees their sports activities. My parents also play an important role in supporting me, through the journey. I think being clear about my own expectations and delegating certain duties to the staff and the children’s grandparents allows us to achieve that perfect balance,” she notes. Shivani Sharma with her son Taking accountabilityAS a single mother, I have realised that when a couple goes through a divorce or a separation, the child faces a lot of emotional distress. What the separated couple must now focus on is the child’s emotional stability and happiness. In many cases, a co-parenting arrangement may simply not work out,” says Shivani Sharma, a chefpreneur and founder of Gourmestan. “The parent who has been assigned primary custody must take responsibility to give the child a wholesome upbringing. In my case, I have been fortunate to be supported by my mother, with whom my son shares a very close bond. I also ensure that my son participates in several extracurricular activities to help him relieve stress and spend one-on-one time with him so that he can communicate his emotional needs,” she concludes.
25 November,2024 09:03 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita PaulStyle Think outfits drenched in pink, black, or emerald green to channel a little magic. Stylist Disha Selarka shares how to adapt these looks to our wardrobes, “Incorporate the style elements and colours in your everyday dressing. Black, pink or green/emerald are colours that scream wicked,” she explains. Here’s her take on how to get the ‘Wicked’ look right. Shades of green can make a mark Silhouette shift: Selarka suggests embracing A-line silhouettes in dresses and skirts for a structured, flow-y look, with knee, midi or maxi-length hems offering a more polished vibe. For those looking to channel corporate chic, she suggests wearing a blazer to make a power suit look with the A-line skirts, to create a modern version of the character’s outfits. A structured top paired with a flow-y bottom enhances the body shape, “Having a balanced between structure and flow-y fabrics is important to balance out the yin and yang of the characters as well as your own personality,” she remarks. The iconic ruby slippers are a style statement Fabric flair: Softer and more feminine fabrics like sheer and lace are seen making their mark in the movie, offering a lightweight, breathable feel that ensures comfort. “No matter the colour preference, choose feminine fabrics, ruffles and frills,” explains Selarka. These materials can easily be infused with personal style, to create a bespoke look. Elevate your look: To reflect the colours and vibe of the Emerald City, “Take baby steps and try out the look by opting for emerald jewellery,” Selarka advises. Think emerald pendants, bracelets, earrings, or even simple rhinestone earrings for a classic Glinda touch. “Pick footwear that suits your personality, from Glinda’s pink pumps to Elphaba’s black lace-up boots, and let’s not forget, the infamous ruby slippers,” she adds. To complete the look, choose a practical yet stylish crossbody or satchel for an Elphaba touch. Disha Selarka Fit for a prince: Men can channel the charm of Fiyero with a modern twist on aristocratic attire. Selarka explains, “Opt for skinny or straight-fit pants, or beige chinos, and pair them with a waist-length cropped jacket to achieve that princely look.” The key is blending the classic elements of Fiyero’s royal look with contemporary styles for a modern take that still channels that princely charm. Wicked glam: Ensure your make-up complements the outfit, “It’s important to keep it minimal, feminine and go for nude pink lips [like Aditi Rao Hydari (left)],” she explains. Read Pic courtesy/Harpercollins Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire: It is a prequel to The Wizard of Oz that explores Elphaba’s backstory. It reimagines familiar tales and characters through a fresh, complex lens. Loosely inspired by this tale, the 2003 Broadway musical is now being adapted into a highly anticipated film. Log on to: amazon.in Cost: Rs 1,609 Watch Why the Wicked movie will have 2 parts, everything we know so far: This video has you covered with a quick, all-in-one summary of the film’s key details with no need for endless scrolling. Log on to: YouTube Behind the Curtain: The History of Wicked Part 1 and 2: Learn about the behind-the-scenes journey from the yellow brick road to the Broadway stage with a series of videos that trace Wicked’s rise from early performances, to global sensation with insights from actors Lauren Harris and Ginna Claire Mason, who’ve portrayed Elphaba and Glinda respectively on the Broadway stage.Log on to: YouTube Listen BeWicked: Original Broadway Recording Deluxe editions: The original Wicked Broadway soundtrack, divided into discs, includes iconic songs like Popular and Defying Gravity, which showcase Stephen Schwartz’s remarkable work defining the musical’s depth and impact. Log on to: Spotify Wicked Movie original motion picture soundtrack: This is your chance to immerse yourself in the iconic music from the film, and experience the magic of Oz. Log on to: Spotify
23 November,2024 08:31 AM IST | Mumbai | Kanisha SoftaGhadiyal Godi Mumbai is laden with some of the most sophisticated, innovative and beautiful clock towers. Each clock has a story to tell. Many treasures are scattered and hidden across the urban-scape. They need to be conserved and rehabilitated to continue to serve the city as beacons of time and also as spaces that can be preserved and adaptively reused by people. Once such lost treasure lies in the Victoria and Prince Docks on P D’Mello Road, locally called Ghadiyal Godi. Erected in 1891, this clocktower is unique as it contained a ‘timeball’, a time-signalling device in maritime navigation used by navigators to check and set their chronometers. The timeball stopped functioning the day of the Bombay Dock Explosions in 1944. To restore and bring back to working order the ‘timeball’ would resurrect and celebrate its significance in Bombay maritime history. Restoration of the Malad stone and Basalt building from its dilapidated and neglected state to a museum space containing Mumbai maritime history would re-establish its role as a city landmark and the role it played in the development of the port city, and as a gateway to India. Nandini Somaya Sampat, principal architect-SNK (Somaya & Kalappa Consultants) Precincts Flora Fountain or Hutatma Chowk in Bombay, India by Bourne and Shephard,1880s. Pics Courtesy/Wikimedia Commons We cannot save the heritage of a city if we only look at individual buildings. Mumbai, like the best of heritage cities in the world, is a city of precincts. Each precinct is distinguished by the specific style of its architecture and its urban characteristics — the uniformity of its building lines, its footprint, the heights of the buildings and the floor heights. We look at precincts as loosely connected horizontals and therein, we see the urban harmonies. This makes it a very fragile ensemble, given the ravages of the ravenous real-estate monster. One building gone, and the entire precinct loses its character forever. Look at the building lines on the eastern side of the Flora Fountain Plaza, and you can see the beginning of the end. Marine Drive, despite its UNESCO World Heritage Site status, is one building away from disfigurement. Sometimes, one gets the feeling that there is no Heritage Oversight Committee in Mumbai. Mustansir Dalvi, architect, professor of architecture, poet Also Read: Bombay Rewind, Replay: Silent sentinels of World War I in the city Old Cinema Halls It’s essential to remember Mumbai’s status as the cinema capital of India. I’m especially nostalgic about its Art Deco theatres. Some of these have evolved into multiplexes, restaurants, or shopping centres to survive, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Fortunately, venues like the Royal Opera House, Eros, Liberty, and Regal have been restored and maintained. Capitol cinema in Fort; a view of Paradise cinema in Mahim. File Pics I recently visited Capitol cinema, and was struck by its current state, imagining its past splendour. Unfortunately, government regulations restrict its use for alternative purposes. Sadly, some old cinemas like Deepak Cinema (Matterden) in Lower Parel, and Paradise Cinema in Mahim had to bring their curtains down. Preserving these historical venues is crucial for maintaining Mumbai’s cinematic heritage. Another deserving monument is the Ghadiyal Godi Clock Tower, which unfortunately, stands in a state of neglect and disrepair. Restoring it would not only preserve our heritage but also celebrate our city’s rich maritime history. Brinda Miller, fine artist; Honorary chair-Kala Ghoda Association, Honorary festival director -Kala Ghoda Arts Festival Dadar TT Circle and Sion Circle Mumbai’s earliest planned suburbs boast three major roundabouts, the Dadar TT circle, King’s Circle and Sion Circle. These junctions are defining landmarks and buzzing public plazas, boasting wide footpaths lined with shops and restaurants. King’s Circle. Pic Courtesy/Jehangir Sorabjee, Above Bombay The Reinforced Concrete Cement (RCC)-framed buildings defining the edges of each of these junctions are of identical design, with their heights and facades regulated by the Bombay City Improvement Trust, thus lending a distinct character and massing to each junction. As a significant urban design exercise in the 1930s, these circles serve as crucial landmarks even today. Over time, these buildings have been subject to insensitive and indiscriminate interventions, which have disrupted the sense of order in the buildings surrounding each of these junctions, and have diluted their character, particularly at King’s Circle and Sion Circle. These three roundabouts could be taken up for sensitive regeneration to re-establish their suburban pre-eminence. In contrast, Horniman Circle, which was a similar urban design exercise from an earlier historical period, sees its 19th Century buildings well preserved today. Mumbai’s modern (20th Century) heritage deserves the same level of sensitivity. Atul Kumar, founder-Art Deco Mumbai Watson’s Hotel The façade of Watson’s Hotel Following the listing of the Victorian Gothic, Oval Maidan and Art Deco precinct as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, there is one structure which stands just behind the Victorian Gothic ensemble desperately in need of restoration: the former Watson’s Hotel (Esplanade Mansion). It was listed with a high grade as far back as 1995 for its uniqueness as India’s first cast-iron structure. Amazingly, the columns and beams were shipped in from the UK, and the building was more or less assembled as you would a prefabricated structure today. In its time, it was also not only elegant but patronised as the finest hotel in Bombay until it was eclipsed by the newly-built Taj Mahal Hotel. Sadly, the building has been misused, abused and fallen into disrepair. Bringing it back to life is not only urgent but would add another jewel to the crown of the Victorian Gothic ensemble, which it adjoins. Cyrus Guzder, entrepreneur, culture and arts philanthropist
23 November,2024 08:22 AM IST | Mumbai | Fiona FernandezWe walk into the buzzing Jehangir Nicholson Art Foundation (JNAF). It is the preview of her new exhibition, and Dayanita Singh is already at the centre of the conversation. We see veteran journalist and editor P Sainath in an earnest discussion with her. Around them, multiple photographs adorn the gallery walls with an aesthetic geometry. They are part of Singh’s touring exhibition that opened with Photo Lies in Mumbai on November 21. The exhibition draws from her previous work, Dancing with My Camera that toured Europe with the Frith Street Gallery, London, as well as bringing some new unseen works to India for the first time, Singh reveals. “Since this is a tour, I had to think of a curation to suit every venue. Puja [Vaish] and I settled on this concept around architecture and deception,” she explains. The deception is part of Singh’s questioning of photography as an accepted evidence of truth. An exhibit titled Make Space “Photography, even in documentaries, is deception. I was just having that same debate with Sainath, and he opined that this could be true of photography of power, but not protest,” she reveals. Singh’s non-conforming idea, to this writer, is not dissimilar to the surrealist painter Rene Magritte’s famed Treachery of Images. On being told, she laughs, “You are not entirely wrong. There are 2,000 years of architecture in these images from Pompeii and Ellora, to architects Le Corbusier and Rahul Mehrotra. I have interspersed geography and time. Each of these places [in the photographs] are different in time and geography. The only place they can exist in is here,” she remarks. Many of the montages emerge from Singh’s long nurtured photographic archives of architectural spaces. Places such as Carlos Scarpa’s Brion cemetery blend into Martand Khosla’s Delhi residence; Geoffrey Bawa’s structures amalgamated seamlessly into a photograph of Álvaro Siza’s works. At one point, photographs of Studio Mumbai and the Ellora Caves are cut into each other with a play of light that makes it difficult to point out the oddities. A patron views the Bawa Rocks pillar The artist admits that she worked instinctively when creating these analogue cut-out combinations; “…like a DJ.” Echoing the sentiment in her walkthrough of the exhibition, Singh told visitors, “I love it when my architect friends look at a photograph and say, “Ahh Bawa,” and I get to tell them “Look again.” This show is about slowing down, looking carefully; otherwise you miss the fact that there are pieces of the images moving back and forth.” There is durability in the visions of stone structures in black and white, against the wooden teak frames that interrupt the flow of visitors walking through the gallery. “The frames are shaped by our perception of photographs. These are square frames, and these are 35mm frames,” she points out. There are also pillars of three architects — the Corbu pillar, Bawa Rocks and BV Stairs. Bombay Cinema House Museums (foreground) and Archiviologies Each wall brings out a different aspect. One of the walls hosts painted over images of photographs giving them a ghostly appearance. This novelty is also the reason she chose the venues, including JNAF. Singh shares, “One cannot always rely on commercial galleries. It is not their role to question norms of photography, or architecture. We need spaces that allow such questions or disruptions of order.” The tour will continue across India till April with stops in Jaipur, Kolkata, Ahmedabad and Vadodara. For now, Mumbaikars can walk in and admire the aesthetic beauty between truth and deception. Till February 23; 10.15 am to 6 pmAt JNAF, second floor, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, Fort.
23 November,2024 08:11 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarWhether as a by-product of elaborate skincare routines becoming increasingly popular, or a broader shift in terms of make-up being used to highlight and accentuate instead of conceal and cover, the growing popularity of skin-focused looks is showing no signs of dimming. From Kiara Advani to Kareena Kapoor Khan to even Disha Patani, Bollywood’s leading ladies have all been sported with make-up that either leaves the skin entirely bare or only adds to its innate luminescence. Kareena Kapoor Khan and (right) Solanki in casual no-make-up looks “Undoubtedly, skin is emerging as the hero of the beauty world. With clients — both women and men — focusing on their skin health and following meticulous skincare routines, they’re eager to show off the results [in the form of radiant, glowing skin] instead of covering it all up in make-up,” notes Dr Manisha Kothari, a dermatologist at Kosmoderma Clinics. Dollie Solanki, a beauty content creator, agrees with this observation: “Whether you’re rocking a classic red lip or going for softer kohl-rimmed eyes, the skin has to be hydrated and glowing for a fresh, dewy finish. To achieve that radiant skin look, it’s important to add in a few extra skincare and skin prep steps before make-up application,” she shares. Subtle but effective Solanki recommends starting a moisturiser that suits your skin type. “Choose a lightweight foundation with a satin or radiant finish, or skip foundation, entirely opt for a tinted moisturiser or a BB cream. For added radiance, you can mix a little strobe cream or liquid highlighter into your foundation. You can also use an illuminating primer before applying your foundation,” she says. Dollie Solanki and Manisha Kothari When it comes to concealers, stick to spot concealing only those areas that need it. A cream or liquid blush and highlighter works better for a ‘lit-from-within’ appearance, instead of powder formulas. Solanki also suggests the ‘blonzing’ technique, which includes mixing blush and bronzer to add definition and colour to your face, without harsh contour lines. “Remember, less is more — apply small quantities of product, gradually building your look up and blending well, so that your make up looks seamless and not cakey,” she warns. Avoid matte and full coverage foundations, and steer clear of ‘baking’ with powder; instead, use subtle touches of powder with a puff or a fluffy brush, only to set the concealer or in areas where the skin tends to get greasy such as the T-zone. Harsh contouring is a strict no-no. Imperfectly perfect While no-base make-up may be a no-brainer if your skin is already youthful, radiant and blemish-free, more mature or acne-prone skin may find the trend slightly more daunting. Yet, Solanki affirms that these looks are meant for all ages and all skin types. “The number one issue that people with mature skin have is their make-up creasing, and product settling into fine lines and wrinkles. To avoid this, ensure that you moisturise your skin well before you apply make-up. Lightly dab off any excess moisturiser with a tissue and use a blurring primer before applying your base make-up. Ensure that you set the concealer in with powder — do not bake — before it starts creasing,” she adds. Acne or pigmentation can be spot-corrected, she continues: “My favourite technique is to blend the concealer on the target area with an eyeshadow brush for precise concealing and then set it with powder. In case of discolouration such as redness due to rosacea, dull and sallow skin, or extremely dark circles under the eyes, colour-correct before adding foundation and concealer.” Ace that base If you still haven’t found a skincare routine that is simple, effective and gives you the perfect canvas for a no-base make-up look, Dr Kothari offers the following suggestions: >> Start with an AM and PM routine. For the AM routine, use a gentle cleanser followed by a moisturiser and a sunscreen. For the PM routine, use a cleanser followed by a serum, sealed in with a moisturiser. >> If you use make-up daily or are exposed to air pollution, include double cleansing in your routine. Double cleansing starts with an oil-based cleanser, which helps to remove the dirt and make-up followed by a water-based cleanser. >> Adequate hydration is essential for skin homeostasis to maintain your skin barrier and for tissue elasticity. Hydration is just not external in the form of moisturisers but also internal. Drink two to three litres of water, and explore supplements containing N-acetyl cysteine, vitamin B3, B6, B9, B12 and D3 and Himalayan pink salt. >> For dry skin, choose a moisturiser containing shea butter, ceramide or glycerine in a cream based or ointment-based formulation. For oily skin, a hyaluronic acid-based oil-free light-weight gel-based moisturiser would be ideal. For combination skin, pick a lightweight gel moisturiser containing hyaluronic acid, glycerine and dimethicone. >> Use a retinol-based serum for ageing concerns. If you are starting out with retinol, try the sandwich technique that involves washing your face with gentle cleanser, applying a moisturiser, topping it with a retinol serum, and then finally sealing the serum in with another layer of moisturiser. This helps your skin to adapt to the molecule, thereby avoiding the irritation and breakouts from retinol.
22 November,2024 10:50 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita PaulLike most musical families, Srikrishna and Ramkumar Mohan started young under the tutelage of their father Trichur R Mohan, a veteran mridangam player. Like most Indian families, the brothers — now popular as the Trichur Brothers — had to crack a competitive exam nonetheless. The chartered accountants-cum-Carnatic vocalists will now tally their tunes with Hindustani vocalist Anand Bhate among other familiar names like Manganiyar vocalist Kachra Khan and santoor player Rahul Sharma this weekend. We open our conversation by getting a pressing question out of the way — which one of the two professional pursuits could have possibly been tougher to crack? “Even though music ran in the family, it was never imposed on us. Chartered accountancy, on the other hand, was a purely materialistic goal that we had to get out of the way,” Srikrishna laughs. The vocalist remembers waking up to Carnatic tunes playing in the family home and joining the riyaz out of curiosity. “It was possibly this freedom that we were allowed in a structured practice such as Carnatic music, that made it the easier pursuit,” he admits. Srikrishna and Ramkumar Mohan perform in the USA earlier this year Growing up in the 1990s taking inspiration from another maestro — AR Rahman — the duo is evidently not a stickler for orthodoxy. “It shows in our music,” Ramkumar agrees, adding, “We were never trained in the art of presentation. So, when we took the stage, we experimented to find our style.” Today, the duo is recognised for its fresh take on duet singing, where both vocalists harmonise onstage, contrary to the longstanding practice of a relay-style jugalbandi. “We didn’t know we were breaking a tradition. It garnered some criticism from purists initially, but they warmed up to our style with time,” Ramkumar reveals. The brothers will take stage with Pune-based National Award-winning vocalist Anand Bhate, whose memories of training under the great Indian vocalist late Pandit Bhimsen Joshi paint a similar progressive picture. “Panditji’s music spoke not only to the learned who saw music as a structured science, but the layman who didn’t understand the nuances. In many ways, it has shaped my approach to classical music,” he reveals. When Bhate takes stage with the brothers to perform classics from the Bhakti tradition, he hopes his guru’s vision will shine through. Rahul Sharma and Kachra Khan The artistes unanimously acknowledge the importance of furthering the classical art forms among younger listeners. Are cross-genre collaborations and fusion music the only means to this end, we ask. The brothers, who form part of the fusion band Anubhoothi, give us an interesting analogy, “Just like a batsman must be proficient in all formats of cricket to stay relevant today, we must aim to present our traditions in more modern ways to keep them alive.” Bhate, who has observed the scene evolve over the years, adds, “The past five years have been promising. Even at orthodox classical concerts, we are starting to see young faces in the audience.” While the Mohans believe the Maximum City will be a fitting venue for this experimentation, there’s more to the city that’s luring the duo in. Srikrishna explains, “After extensive touring, we can safely declare that no city does pav bhaji like Mumbai. We’re big foodies and we can’t wait to head to one of the streetside stalls where you can see buttery pavs land on platefuls of bhaji up close.” Now that’s a jugalbandi that will never go out of style. ON November 23; 5.30 pm AT Nehru Centre, Dr Annie Besant Road, Worli. LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.comENTRY Rs 500 onwards
22 November,2024 09:11 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleIs bald the new sexy? Before you answer that, consider the list of celebrities named by a recent study as among the sexiest bald men of 2024. Topping the charts is Prince William, with Dwayne Johnson, Stanley Tucci, Thierry Henry and, of course, Vin Diesel following close at his heels. And, while in India, bald men were typically relegated to villainous roles (Mogambo khush hua, anyone?), the recent crop of balding but hot actors such as Akshaye Khanna and Rahul Bose are challenging that stereotype. If you are conscious about losing hair but can’t be bothered with transplants, weaves and other complicated procedures, experts recommend embracing the change with confidence. “One piece of advice I always give my patients who are losing hair or have embraced being bald is to own it. Baldness can be incredibly stylish and even sexy when you care for yourself well,” says Dr Niketa Sonavane, a celebrity dermatologist and founder of Ambrosia Aesthetics. She, and other experts, break down what your bald but beautiful routine should look like. Dwyvesh Parasnani; Nikita Sonavane and Bony Sasidharan Dare to bare Just because it isn’t covered in hair doesn’t mean you have to stop caring for your scalp, cautions Dr Sonavane. “In fact, it’s especially important to keep your scalp clean and hydrated. Use products that suit your skin type to avoid issues such as flakiness or excess oil. Further protect your scalp from the sun, because it is now fully exposed — the scalp can burn easily and repeated sunburns can lead to premature aging and even skin cancer. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and reapply it if you are outdoors for long periods. You could also consider wearing a cap or other headgear,” she advises. At the same time, invest in a good scalp care routine. Dr Sonavane suggests using a gentle cleanser to wash your scalp daily, especially if you are sweating or spend a lot of time outdoors. Avoid harsh soaps as they can dry your skin out. Exfoliate occasionally to remove dead skin cells, but do not overdo it; once a week is usually enough. “Moisturising your scalp is a must. A good, lightweight moisturiser or an oil-free hydrating lotion works well to prevent dryness and irritation. Look for ingredients such as ceramides or hyaluronic acid, which are great for hydration. If you have an oily scalp, use products that balance oil production without clogging pores,” she adds. The big, bald takeover The balding process has several stages and several interim stages before you simply shave it all off, experts say. “Many of my male clients feel conscious and worried when they begin to bald. Some of them want to carry a hairstyle that covers or conceals the areas where their hair is receding. Some alternatives include hair patches, micropigmentation or hair accessories such as bandanas, scarfs or hats that can complement or even augment their style. Hair fibre is another temporary option to cover small patches. Growing out your facial hair is another great option as it can balance your look,” shares Bony Sasidharan, artistic and education ambassador, Loreal Professionnel. Dwyvesh Parasnani, a hair artist at You Do You Hair Studio, explains that switching up your style as the balding progresses can make the process fun and experimental: “Ask for a tapered or zero fade with a fringe, to camouflage the hair loss. If the balding is quite prominent at the top of your head, you can sport a very trim buzz cut, with a beard as your accessory. For a more experimental look, try a mullet and add cornrows or box braids at the back. You could also try an army buzz or a high-top faded crop.” Radiant from within The correct lifestyle habits can support your scalp health significantly, recommends Dr Nikita Sonavane . Eat a balanced diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals, especially zinc, biotin and omega-3 fatty acids. Stay hydrated . Avoid smoking Follow this . Keep your scalp clean, hydrated and protected from the sun. Pay attention to your overall grooming, as a bald head draws attention to your face and neck. Explore beard grooming; a well-kept beard can add balance and style. A buzz cut or a crew cut requires regular maintenance. Plan your hair appointments accordingly. Consult a dermatologist when you notice thinning hair or bald patches: explore options such as PRP therapy, medication or hair transplants if you wish to preserve your hair. Shave your hair for a clean, polished look when your bald spots become prominent and your hair is scanty. Transitioning to this look can be a confidence-booster. If you are unsure about pulling it off a bald pate, start with a short trim and decide accordingly Avoid this . Ignore your scalp’s health: dryness, itchiness, or flakes need to be addressed with proper care or by consulting a dermatologist . Overuse razors or clippers without the correct technique; improper shaving can lead to cuts, ingrown hairs or irritation. Use harsh hair products if you still have some hair left: they can damage the scalp and worsen hair fall. And lastly, do not hesitate to embrace baldness
21 November,2024 11:37 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita PaulThursday Reel stories, reel soundsMusic: The Revolver Club’s Hi-Fi show offers a chance to explore listening sessions and film screenings, with world-class audio systems.Till November 24 time 1 pm onwards At The Revolver Club, CST Road, 601 Dani Corporate Park, Kalina. Log on to @therevolverclub Entry First-come first-serve basisFree Friday Kids enjoy with the characters. Pic Courtesy/Instagram It’s Baby Shark fever Kids: Dive into the vibrant world of Baby Shark and Pinkfong with an exciting four-day extravaganza. Enjoy live shows, interactive games, engaging workshops, and more in a fun-filled event for families and young fans. Till November 24 time 3 pm onwards At Phoenix Palladium, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel. Log on to in. bookmyshow.com Cost Rs 699 onwards Saturday A moment from a previous brush painting session Capture your masterpieceWorkshop: Explore the art of impasto painting with a knife. Participants will learn techniques to create vibrant masterpieces. Time 3 pm to 6 pm At Costa Coffee, Amarkunj Society, Veer Savarkar Marg, Dadar West. Log on to @theblankcanvas2022 Cost Rs 1,600 Sunday Shrek-tacular SundayMuiscal: Spend your morning enjoying Shrek The Musical. Join Shrek, Fiona and Lord Farquaad as they embark on a hilarious journey from Shrek’s swamp to the kingdom of Duloc. This lively adaptation promises a delightful adventure for both the young and the young at heart.Time 11.30 am onwards At Royal Opera House, Mama Parmanand Marg, Opera House, Charni Road. Log On to in.bookmyshow.com Call 9324059522 Cost Rs 400 onwards Nature on show Indian pond heron. Pic Courtesy/Sachin Rane Sign up: Participate in a bird watching trail at the Maharashtra Nature Park. This refreshing walk through the park’s lush greenery, allows nature enthusiasts to observe a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. Time 8.30 am At Maharashtra Nature Park, Sion Bandra Link Road, Dharavi. Log on to @naturalistex Cost Rs 550
21 November,2024 08:48 AM IST | Mumbai | Kanisha SoftaAs a five-year-old, this writer would often be treated to stories about the cosmos just before going to bed. Tales of celestial heroes and villains, cosmic bravery and betrayals would fill the mind before sleep took control. There is no doubt that the solar system has been a constant source of fascination for humans and this weekend’s edition of Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum’s Read With Me session exactly feeds into that. Devasher’s exhibition at Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum. Pics Courtesy/Rohini Devasher Featuring a story about the Sun and the Moon by author Jayme Sandberg and narrated by educator Priya Aga, the session draws inspiration from Rohini Devasher’s ongoing exhibition at the museum, One Hundred Thousand Suns, to narrate an endearing tale of friendship in the backdrop of an eclipse. “It is a read aloud session for children between the age group of 7 to 14 years, and is deeply related to Devasher’s show. It seeks to initiate a dialogue on how we sometimes feel eclipsed in our friendships, which can lead to feelings of self-doubt. We want to create a safe space for children to have these kinds of conversations. The idea is for them to walk away feeling a bit more confident about themselves after the session,” Aga shares with us over a call. Patrons will be introduced to the exhibition first, after which Aga will begin the storytelling session with the audience. Driven by 10 years of research as an amateur astronomer and an eclipse chaser, Devasher’s exhibition provides the perfect precursor to Aga’s session. “The exhibition features artworks, interviews, videos and photographs that I have collected over many years. My work borrows from the portraits taken by the Kodaikanal solar observatory since 1901 and images from NASA along with my own research material. Though I have missed the opportunity of witnessing a solar eclipse, I can still say that it is a life changing experience. There are so many ways we read into the sky and project our feelings, desires and thoughts into it and have it reflected back to us. It is honestly so fascinating,” Devasher tells us. The session will build on Devasher’s cosmic explorations to situate the story, “It is about enabling a sort of community conversation. Children always bring a fresh perspective to things and what better than stories to talk about important ideas,” Aga tells us before signing off. Priya Aga during a previous session in January ON November 23; 4 to 5 pmAT Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum, Rani Baug, Byculla West.LOG ON TO @bdlmuseum on InstagramFREE Priya Aga- Priya Aga with children at a previous storytelling session Rohini Devasher and Priya Aga
21 November,2024 08:46 AM IST | Mumbai | Divyasha PandaADVERTISEMENT
