Just when you thought that it was safe to bring your skinny jeans back into circulation, another throwback trend has resurfaced to make you dig deeper into your denim archives — wide-leg jeans, a mainstay of the ’70s and the ’90s are back in an updated avatar. What makes the trend more popular and likelier to catch on this time around is the ongoing shift towards comfortable and relaxed fits. That these jeans hit at the most flattering part of your torso and elongate your silhouette are just added bonuses. But how do you go about styling a pair without appearing as though you’ve stepped straight off the sets of a Western? We got image consultant Taylor Elizabeth to share the scoop. Taylor Elizabeth The right pair “Wide-leg jeans and pants have been a staple in the fashion sphere for decades, proving their timeless appeal. The key to making them look contemporary and smart lies in the styling. Wide-leg jeans can be incredibly versatile and can enhance your overall look when styled correctly,” Elizabeth says. She offers the following guidelines to help pick out the perfect pair. . Fit: Ensure that the jeans fit well at the waist and hips. The length should be appropriate, either grazing the floor or sitting just above the shoes for a modern look. . Fabric: Choose high-quality denim with a slight stretch for comfort but enough structure to maintain the wide-leg silhouette. . Finishing: Check for well-done stitching, neat hems, and a polished finish. Avoid overly distressed styles to retain a sophisticated appearance. . Rise: High-waisted styles tend to be more flattering and versatile, providing a sleek silhouette that pairs well with a variety of tops. The 2024 update Unlike the ’70s, when the only appropriate way to style these jeans was with bohemian peasant tops, the 2024 comeback is more chic, streamlined and sophisticated. “A tucked-in silk blouse or a fitted knit top can create a balanced silhouette. For a more casual look, a well-fitted turtleneck or a tailored button-down shirt works well,” Elizabeth says. For dressier events, try adding layers to the outfit by the way of a tailored blazer, cropped jacket or long cardigan which can add structure and sophistication. When it comes to footwear, pointed-toe flats, heeled boots, or stylish loafers can complement the wide-leg jeans without overwhelming the look, she notes. Complete your look with minimalist jewellery, such as a simple necklace or elegant earrings, and a structured handbag can complete the outfit. A belt can also help define the waist and add a finishing touch.
16 September,2024 09:15 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita PaulCoimbatore-born Ambai writes stories that linger with us long after we’ve read them. Her characters are deeply fleshed-out and drawn earnestly from life. Sudha Gupta, the cinnamon-tea loving detective, first seen in A Meeting on the Andheri Overbridge, is one such character, an everyday woman living in Mumbai. Sudha was sketched from “a combination of many women” whom Ambai knows, she tells us. In her latest collection, The Death of a Sarus Crane (Speaking Tiger), translated from Tamil by Gita Subramanian, the detective is back with four new cases. Each case provides a window into the inner conflicts of the protagonists and the reasons that compel certain situations to reach extreme ends. The strength of the book lies in the power of the detective to access emotions that others seemingly cannot. In entering spaces with care, a detective does not only solve crimes; they also save lives. Sriman Sudarsanam, a character popularised by Devan’s books This is most evident in her third story Sepal, where the protagonist is seen standing at the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, contemplating suicide. “I wanted to explore human relationships and emotions in a city through this genre, not just through crimes, although they were also elements in the stories, but more through the complexities that a city like Mumbai creates around you,” shares the author, who spent her early childhood in the city and returned to settle in Mumbai in 1978. “I wanted a woman detective with a family and a very kind-hearted police officer [Govind Shelke] to sift through these relationships with warmth and sensitivity.” While Ambai cherishes the work of writers like Agatha Christie, Raymond Chandler, Ed McBain, Arthur Conan Doyle, she fondly remembers reading popular Tamil detective stories while growing up. These, she says, were easily found in circulating libraries. Among them, a writer she enjoyed most was Devan, the editor of Ananda Vikatan, a Tamil weekly, and creator of CID Chandru series. “He wrote many social novels which were serialised and had readers who admired him greatly, but his detective fiction was popular too, and had special readership.” She recollects his “fumbling detective, Sriman Sudarsanam,” alongside several other writers. Ambai. Pics Courtesy/Wikimedia Commons What makes Ambai’s stories stand out is her exploration of gender fluidities, often alluding to myth. She also explores the city, familiarising us with its streets and people. Referring to the title story, she remarks, “A case where a young servant girl was killed was in the news many years ago, and it did not become sensational at that time. Just a one-inch report. When I began to write about a similar incident, I thought Lokhandwala will be a good choice.” Migrants are an important part of the book, especially in the context of this story. When we ask her if this was a conscious decision, Ambai shares, “Mumbai has been a city of migrants for a long, long time. You can’t write a story based on Mumbai without referring to one group of migrants or the other. It is a natural choice, not a deliberate one. The migrants make the city what it is.” Cost Rs 499Available At leading bookstores and e-stores
16 September,2024 09:10 AM IST | Mumbai | Nandini VarmaSocial media is at it again, and this time, it centres around discovering happiness. The latest trend making waves online focuses on creating a hormonal balance through habits rather than by simply scrolling along. Called a dopamine menu, these programmes are a personalised list of activities designed to boost dopamine levels, improve mood, and prevent doom scrolling. The concept was popularised by multiple influencers from Jessica McCabe on her YouTube channel How to ADHD, to Payton Sartain on her podcast, Note to Self. The trend started going viral after actor Eva Longoria shared her own insight on the idea recently. Dopamine 101 “Dopamine, often called the happy hormone, starts to peak from the moment we wake up and gradually decreases as the day progresses,” explains Tejashri Acharya, child counsellor and neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) practitioner. The menu thus, becomes a tool for mindfulness, aimed towards building healthy habits. Payton Sartain in her podcast Dr Chinmay Patkar, MBBS, DPM, psychiatrist, explains the need to structure when building a dopamine menu. The tasks, he suggests, should be divided based on their importance and the time they require. “Small, low-effort activities or appetisers such as putting clothes away are best done at the start of your day to maintain healthy dopamine levels. Mains comprise essential tasks like work or exercise that are often mundane but rewarding, once completed. Desserts are feel-good activities at the end of the day,” he explains. This gradual increase is to avoid overstimulation and limit engagement with dopamine hijackers — dangerously addictive dopamine-releasing activities like endlessly scrolling through social media. Ease into the tasks The menu’s effectiveness relies on its practicality and efficiency. “It’s important to manage expectations, as not all activities will provide instant gratification, and the absence of quick fixes can lead to disappointment,” explains Acharya. Simple stretches at your workdesk can help Spreading your activities throughout the day also ensures better consistency. “For instance, you can do basic stretches at your workplace, take a walk in the sun if possible, or eat fruits like apples or watermelon for an instant dopamine boost,” suggests nutritionist Saloni Kothari. A routine that lasts A dopamine menu should also prioritise enjoyment, and not feel like a chore. “Include activities that you look forward to. Learn to savour simple, mundane moments like making coffee,” says Dr Patkar, adding, “Do not burden yourself with tasks.” The key, Acharya notes, is to tailor the activities to your personal preferences; enjoyable activities are more likely to be repeated. A dopamine menu is split into appetisers, mains and dessert Kothari also emphasises the importance of adopting a fibre-rich diet to sustainably maintain stable hormone levels in the long term. “Eating a balanced diet of fruits, nuts, and dairy can help as these foods are a great source of dopamine.” Exercise is another mood booster, as regular workouts release endorphins and help you tap into your happy hormones and enhance your overall well-being. Saloni Kothari Avoid the pitfalls Overstacking and having unrealistic expectations is an obstacle for creating a successful menu. “A giant menu with a lot of activities might feel good in theory, but will create an unrealistic motivation curve from thought to action,” explains Patkar. Self-awareness plays a crucial role in this activity. A dopamine menu can include exercise and quality sleep While Patkar believes that the chances of any significant risks in going overboard with dopamine menus are slim, Acharya argues otherwise. “Over reliance on these activities can cause a dopamine crash, eventually leading to a burnout. They can become draining especially while balancing a hectic life.” Dr Chinmay Patkar and Tejashri Acharya Comparing your progress with others and obsessing over results can also be counterproductive. “It is important to take things slowly, as these programmes are meant to foster lifelong habits that require time to develop,” Patkar concluded. Experts suggest a balanced diet of fruits, nuts, and dairy Pitfalls to avoid . Do not burden the list with overwhelming tasks. . Do not expect instant results from activities that offer a long-term dopamine boost. . Avoid comparing your progress with others to prevent frustration. . Do not turn the dopamine menu into a rigid to-do list. . Avoid focusing solely on high dopamine activities as it can cause overstimulation. Fix your dopamine . Build momentum with small, low-effort tasks. . Balance the list by adding both calming and stimulating activities to prevent burnout. . Choose enjoyable activities that feel rewarding when completed. . Pair familiar habits with new ones you want to build, like gratitude journaling while on your daily commute.. Break down your goals and focus on small, actionable steps to avoid overwhelming yourself.
16 September,2024 09:05 AM IST | Mumbai | Kanisha SoftaShelly was expelled. Van Gogh was expelled once. Ostrovsky was expelled once. Palme Dutt was expelled once. I was expelled twice,” wrote FN Souza in a typically daring statement in his catalogue to the 1948 exhibition at the Bombay Art Society Salon. A century after his birth in 1924 in Saligao, Goa, Souza remains one of the most expensive and prominent names for collectors and art lovers across the country. Minal Vazirani “Souza is, without doubt, a trailblazer in modern Indian art, and that can’t be declared in the past tense. His work drew from diverse, often classical, influences,” says Minal Vazirani, president and co-founder, Saffronart. To celebrate the centenary of Souza’s birth, the venture is set to host an auction of 48 lots of Souza’s works. Unsurprisingly, he remains an artist in demand, she reveals. The auction will feature works that are ‘evocative of Souza’s inner workings,’ Vazirani emphasises. The man, the enigma But what makes him such an attraction? Early 1940s in the city of Bombay was rather complex, admits art curator Ranjit Hoskote. Calling it a ‘global colony’, Hoskote remarks, “It was a very fertile and febrile city at the time.” To this, Souza brought boldness. “What he brought into the Indian scenario was boldness in addressing the erotic and questions of death and mortality.” FN Souza. Pic Courtesy/Wikimedia Commons It was in the city that the artist founded the Progressive Artist’s Group, a movement that would shape India’s modernist outlook in art. “The group was deeply influenced by their surroundings and each other’s ideas,” notes Vazirani. The works on auction, she shares, were curated to highlight his lesser-known inspirations. Hoskote points out an influence of Byzantine art in Souza’s famed iconographies, as well as art from the Gupta period. Passing through Bombay Yet, the city is a passing glimpse in FN Souza’s artistic memory. Gallerist Dadiba Pundole points out that Souza left the city for England early in his career. “He lived very close to Crawford Market. But during the time he lived there, he was still painting Goa through his landscapes. He was only in the city a short while,” he says. FN Souza, Fireman 9 - 11, 2001. Pic Courtesy/Art Musings But the presence was always there. Hoskote remarks that he grew up hearing the artist’s names in conversations between his parents. “The Artist’s Centre was one of his many hangouts back in the early years. It was a big locus for them [PAG group]. There was Chetana, now a restaurant, and of course, Jehangir Art Gallery and the Kala Ghoda neighbourhood.” Pundole recalls dropping Souza off at a hotel in Parel, after their first meeting in 1984. “He [Souza] clearly preferred living among the crowds. That environment fascinated him more than other parts of a city, not just Mumbai,” he admits. Untitled (Head with Horns), 1966 Similarly, for Sangeeta Raghavan, gallerist, Art Musings, Colaba, recalls him as an old family friend dropping by and working out of the house. She shares how the artist would often stay with the family during his visits to the city. “I have a small stack of correspondence that they [my father and Souza] shared, letters, cards. I remember one evening over dinner at my parent’s place, he spontaneously started doing sketches of some friends. It was quite a treat watching him,” she shares. 100 years later, perhaps, Souza might continue to evoke similar memories. LOG ON TO saffronart.com (for details on the auction) Ranjit Hoskote Souza in Bombay >> St Xavier’s CollegeFN Souza was a student of the prominent city institution in the late 1930s, before being expelled for sketching on the walls. >> Sir JJ School of ArtsThe institution marked his first formal education as an artist, before he was expelled again for participating in the Quit India movement of 1942. >> Crawford MarketHis residence in the city of Bombay during his short stay. >> Kala GhodaThe art district was the central hub for the Progressive Artists’ Group, of which Souza was a founding member. >> Sewri Christian CemeteryIt was here that the avant garde artist was laid to rest following his demise in 2002.
14 September,2024 09:31 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarEvery time you meet Fr Milton Gonsalves at the 444-year-old Holy Cross Church’s rectory in Kurla, you experience a sense of calm. However, the 82-year-old revered priest and scholar — whose career includes roles as priest, principal, and Dean of the Bandra Deanery within the Bombay Archdiocese — still carries a fire in his belly. Fr Gonsalves is passionate about East Indian culture, which he often explores in his books on the community’s social, religious, and historical aspects. Having written about the East Indian villages of Thane, Kurla, Kalina, Uttan, and Dharavi islands, his latest work centres on the neighbourhood of Andheri. “I would like to share my knowledge about various places I have worked as a priest,” he says humbly. Also Read: Mid-Day Special | Why Uttan, Mumbai’s hidden village near Bhayander, should be on your travel list An archival picture of Our Lady of Health, Versova The Andheri West Villages booklet meticulously chronicles the rich cultural heritage, architectural beauty, and community life of the unique neighbourhood. The narrative intertwines the evolution of these communities with the city’s rapid urbanisation, offering a thoughtful reflection on the impact of modernisation on historical spaces. What stands out is the booklet’s balance between historical depth and contemporary relevance. It touches on traditional structures and practices that continue to shape village life while addressing the changes brought about by development. It also underscores the necessity of conservation efforts to protect these enclaves from being overshadowed by urban expansion. The church today For those interested in Mumbai’s cultural landscape, the Andheri West Villages Booklet is a resource that combines nostalgia with a forward-looking view on heritage conservation. Here are a few lesser-known facts about the neighbourhood from Fr Gonsalves’ book >> Historic roots: The villages in Andheri West boast a rich blend of East Indian, Portuguese, and Maharashtrian heritage dating back to 300 years. >> Gaothan layouts: These villages retain traditional Gaothan layouts with narrow lanes and communal structures, resisting urban development to maintain their historic character. Fr Milton Gonsalves >> Traditional livelihoods: While fishing and agriculture were once common, only a few families continue these practices today. >> Versova of the yore: Known for its beach and fort, Versova was originally called Visava; it was renamed Vesava and referenced as “VIS-A-VIS” by the British. Established by the Portuguese in 1559, the village was destroyed in 1694 before being rebuilt. The British maintained a military presence until 1818. Today, the Kolis continue their fishing trade, and the Koli Seafood Festival, initiated in 2006, celebrates this heritage. One of the two old crosses, built in 1887, in Kevni Gaothan and Kevni Pada. These crosses mark the enduring presence of historical and religious significance in the region >> Orchard dreams: The name Ambolim came from a massive mango orchard that once dominated its landscape. Founded by the Franciscans in 1554, the Church of St. Blaise in the neighbourhood was built in 1560. The old church was 100-ft-long, 25-ft-broad, and 30-ft-high. It underwent a significant rebuild in 1999. Amboli has since transformed from a vibrant East Indian village to a mixed community with high-rise buildings. Kevni: Kevni is a small village situated behind Saint Blaise Church, Amboli. In the beginning, there were sixteen families, each living in their own bungalows. Until 1975, there were only villas, chawls, and paddy fields cultivated in the village. Email: holycrossku@gmail.com (for more details)
14 September,2024 09:23 AM IST | Mumbai | Nasrin Modak SiddiqiFrom Kim Kardashian to Deepika Padukone, the reverse cat eyeliner has found fans across the globe, with Kiara Advani being the latest celebrity to sport this eye look with her signature flair. The reason it has so many fans across the globe, says celebrity makeup artist Swati Das, is because the style flatters hooded eyes and more mature faces. “This style involves placing emphasis on the lower lash line, creating a lifted and elongated look without overwhelming the eyelid. In essence, it is an innovative twist to the classic cat eye,” she explains. Kiara Advani pairs her reverse cat eyeliner with nude lips For hooded eyes, where the upper lid partially or fully covers the crease, a traditional cat eyeliner can be challenging as it tends to disappear when the eyes are open, Das says. “The reverse cat eyeliner shifts the focus to the lower lash line, bypassing the lid to create a defined, eye-opening effect. Similarly, for mature faces, this technique is often preferred as it avoids drawing attention to any fine lines or sagging on the upper lids. Instead, it subtly lifts and defines the eyes, adding a youthful and original look,” she elaborates. Kim Kardashian’s smoky take on the trend Das offers a detailed guide to acing the technique: >> Prep your eyes: Cleanse and moisturise your eye area. Apply a lightweight eye primer to ensure that your eyeliner stays intact. >> Conceal and set: Use a concealer to brighten your under-eye region and set it with a translucent powder to prevent smudging. >> Choose your liner: A gel or pencil eyeliner offers better control and precision. While black is a classic choice, don’t be afraid to experiment with colours like navy blue, brown, or plum for a softer look. >> Line the lower lash line: Start from the outer corner and work your way inward. Keep the line thin towards the inner corner and gradually expand it as you move outward. Swati Das >> Create the wing: Extend the line slightly past the outer corner of your eye, angling it upwards. This will create the ‘wing’ effect. For a more intense look, extend the wing further and make it thicker. >> Smudge for softness: Use a small, angled brush or a cotton swab to gently smudge the liner. This softens the look and adds a smoky effect. >> Highlight the inner corner: Apply a light, shimmery eyeshadow or highlighter to the inner corners of your eyes to brighten them further. >> Finishing touches: Curl your lashes and apply a lengthening mascara to both your upper and lower lashes. This helps to balance the look and draws attention to your eyes. >> Optional steps: For added drama, you can tighten your upper waterline with a black or dark brown liner. This gives it the illusion of fuller lashes and adds depth to your eyes. “Since the reverse cat eyeliner is a bold look, keep the rest of your makeup relatively minimal. Use neutral tones on your lips and cheeks. Finally, a good skincare routine is a must especially for mature skin. Makeup glides on much more smoothly if your skin is well-hydrated,” Das signs off. Also Read: From brushes to brows: Beginner's guide to enter the world of make-up
14 September,2024 09:15 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita PaulCome Sunday, furry friends of the city will take over the streets with their humans as part of Heads Up For Tails’ third edition of Dogathon. Hundreds of pet parents will come together across 10 cities in India with their pets to walk an extra mile and promote the welfare of community animals. ON September 15; 7 am onwards at Mamta B Cooperative Housing Society LTD, Appasaheb Marathe Marg, Prabhadevi.Log on to in.bookmyshow.com Cost Rs 499 onwards
14 September,2024 09:08 AM IST | Mumbai | The Guide TeamWithout sneaking a peek, would you be able to describe the trees outside your window right now? If you drew a blank, much like this writer did, you’ve confirmed artist duo Jiten Thukral and Sumir Tagra's fear of the world turning increasingly ‘plant blind’. “We build our homes and lives around trees, and yet never consider them to be vital parts of the cultural identity of our surroundings,” explains Thukral. Through their exhibition Arboretum - Ebb and Flow, the Delhi-based artists are putting the spotlight on the flora that have new stories and old memories to share. Arboretum 25 - Quercus Pyrenaica Willd - A, 2024. PICS COURTESY/THUKRAL & TAGRA; NATURE MORTE INDIA The duo has nurtured a longstanding love for trees. “The idea struck us during the COVID-19 lockdown when we moved out of Delhi and video-called each other. I would take screenshots of the vibrant trees in Pondicherry that Jiten would show me,” recalls Tagra. These screenshots, owing to the network interferences, carried with them artefacts such as glitches and blurs. The collection of art works features odes to the chinar tree in Kashmir University’s Naseem Bagh campus, memories of holidays in Japan, and the nostalgic yellow amaltas flowers from Punjab. “The chinar, for instance, has been a mainstay in Kashmiri music, literature and festivities. We see it as a sentient being who has witnessed the history of the region firsthand,” the duo shares. Arboretum 24 - Platanus Orientalis, 2024 Tagra points us to various researches and theories that corroborate their belief. Canadian Ecologist Suzanne Simard, for instance, reveals how trees communicate through a network of soil fungi to share nutrients, carbon, and water. When we observe the photorealistic artworks closely, the glitches and blurs, they all find a reflection in the overall aesthetic. “The glitches reminded me of how we view trees in the modern world. Some people capture it in their photographs, some film them in motion, some write poems. We decided to turn our photographs into canvas paintings and imagine each stroke as a pixel,” explains Thukral. The artists project the images on a canvas and then, intricately paint over the details. Sumir Tagra and Jiten Thukral For Tagra, the return to Mumbai to present the works is a reminder of their passion for exploring unfamiliar terrain. “When we visited Japan for the first time in 2002 to document the trees there, we headed out armed with a simple printed map and nothing else. In many ways, the audience for art in Mumbai is similar. The city has a culture of stepping out and exploring galleries and learning something new every day,” he signs off. TILL October 12; 11 am to 7 pm (Sundays closed)AT Nature Morte Mumbai Gallery, Dhanraj Mahal, Colaba.LOG ON TO @thukralandtagra
13 September,2024 09:15 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleThrough British writer Roald Dahl’s many worlds, we encounter peculiar characters and dreamt-up words. The Dahl vocabulary is so vast that today there is an Oxford Roald Dahl Dictionary brimming with the onomatopoeic sound of his unique language. And although the author has written several stories for adults, his most popular creations are the ones he wrote for children. He also co-wrote the screenplay for the film adaptation of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, the children’s story by James Bond creator, Ian Fleming. Dahl believed, “A life is made up of a great number of small incidents and a small number of great ones”. On his birth anniversary today, celebrated as Roald Dahl Day, we curate four of our favourite film adaptations of his books that you can check out. Matilda (1996) Matilda is perhaps one of the most loved stories from Dahl’s oeuvre. It traces the journey of a six-year-old Matilda Wormwood, who is so neglected by her parents that they overlook her supernatural intelligence. Having spent moments alone, she develops a love of reading and learning. However, a nasty surprise awaits her when she is thrust into a school run by the evil Miss Trunchbull. Aided by Miss Honey, who recognises her sharp mind, Matilda sets out to avenge the bullying of her schoolmates by Miss Trunchbull. Danny DeVito’s 1996 film adaptation mixes moments of humour with those of tenderness, and captures the wonder of Dahl’s novel to perfection.Log on to Netflix The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar (2023) A moment from the film, The Story of Henry Sugar Dahl’s little-known story is now an Oscar-winning live-action short by Wes Anderson. Enhanced with the auteur’s ability to create aesthetically rich scenes, coupled with Dahl’s mastery over bizarre narratives, the film depicts the story of a man who was in search of developing a special ability. Henry Sugar wanted to see the world without using his eyes, so he could cheat at gambling. This is when he learns about the story of Imdad Khan, played by Ben Kingsley, who has achieved this ability using the powers of meditation and yoga. Sugar sets off on a mission to attempt the seemingly impossible, leading to fantastic results and an unexpected revelation.Log on to Netflix Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009) A scene from Fantastic Mr Fox. Pics Courtesy/YouTube Before Henry Sugar, Anderson had borrowed Dahl’s 1970 classic, Fantastic Mr. Fox, to create his first stop-motion animated adaptation. This is a story about Mr. Fox who slips into his conniving old schemes of stealing food from the wealthy farmers, despite promising himself to quit and provide a safe home to his family. The Foxes move homes while Bean, Boggis, and Burns, the three farmers, who find out about the fox family’s mischief make life difficult for them. Anderson’s obsession with precision, texture, and colour palette is visible throughout. This is also what makes him stand out from the crowd. Log on to Amazon Prime The Witches (1990) Anjelica Huston in The Witches Luke’s grandmother Helga used to narrate stories about witches to him when he was younger. A few years later, while they are on a trip to England, Luke comes across a convention where witches have gathered, disguised as ordinary people. They have concocted a potion that can turn children into mice. As Bruce Jenkins, a boy Luke befriends at the hotel, falls prey to this, Luke hides and watches. Soon, however, he gets caught and becomes their next target. Luke and Bruce hatch a plan to take revenge on the witches and save all the children from their wickedness. Anjelica Huston, who plays the head of the witches, the Grand High Witch, was praised for her impeccable portrayal in the film. The 1990 classic also manages to maintain the right balance in the depiction of the absolute evil of the witches and the goodness of the people, without exaggeration or underperformance.Log on to Amazon Prime
13 September,2024 09:10 AM IST | Mumbai | Nandini VarmaThane’s streets are buzzing with excitement as the city prepares for one of its most cherished festivals — Ganesh Chaturthi. Long before the practice of bringing Ganesha idols into homes became popular, sarvajanik pandals were at the heart of community celebrations. Even today, this tradition thrives, with vibrant Ganesha idols and intricately decorated pandals taking over the city. Our visits to the pandals were a pleasant and well-organised experience. With less devotees to manage, the organisers were polite and helpful. They offered prasad to everyone and playfully called out to those leaving empty-handed. The atmosphere was calm and peaceful, despite the pandals being located in heavy-traffic areas. We pick our favourites from the city for this year. Thanyacha Raja Established in 1979 by the Narveer Tanaji Public Ganeshotsav Mandal, Thanyacha Raja is the one of the most popular Ganpati pandals in the city. As the number of devotees increased with time, the pandal was moved from a chawl to the main road for better accessibility. Known as Navasacha Ganpati, this murti is celebrated as the granter of devotees’ wishes. In addition to its ornate gold and silver jewellery contributed by grateful devotees, you can spot a silver mushak at the pandal.TILL September 17AT Narveer Tanaji Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal, Panch Pakhdi, Thane West. Charai cha Raja Located in the heart of Thane city, Charai cha Raja was first established on August 15, 1992 by Jidnayasa Mitra Mandal. The pandal’s central location in Charai, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Thane, plays a key role in attracting devotees. TILL September 17AT Opposite Thane Municipal School (Dagdishala), Thane West. Naupadyacha Icchapurti Founded in 1986 by a group of young friends, the Matruchaya Krida and Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal is among the city’s oldest government-registered mandals. Amidst the bustling station road, the six-foot tall idol holds a silver jaswand flower as a symbol of devotion. Given the high footfall in the neighbourhood, the mandal organises a free bhandara dinner on the ninth day of the festivities every year for hordes of working men and women stepping out of the crowded Thane station as they head home. Not a bad way to remember the Lord, we say.TILL September 17AT Dada Patil Wadi, Naupada, Near Thane Railway Station, Thane West. Kopri cha Maharaja Compared to other age-old pandals, this one is only in its 10th year. But it has earned a place as the largest in Kopri, standing at an impressive height of 22 feet. Earlier known as Siddharth Nagar cha Maharaja, the mandal has been officially recognised as the representative for Kopri this year. The pandal draws larger crowd of 1,000 to 1,500 devotees every day. With organised management, and free food offerings, the hospitality stands out.TILL September 17AT Siddharth Nagar, Kopri, Thane East. Shreenagar cha Maharaja Established in 1987, the Shreenagar Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal has been going strong for 38 years. This year, the mandal’s theme emphasises cultural revival through the remembrance of puranik stories and divine miracles through a unique presentation. In addition to the traditional 15-ft-tall Ganesha idol, the scene features statues that narrate a seven-minute mythological play. The exquisite murti is crafted by the renowned Siddhesh Dighole, student of the late Vijay Khatu — known for designing few of the tallest idols in the city. With a footfall of close to 6,000 visitors daily, it ranks high on the popularity charts.TILL September 17AT Shreenagar Maidan, Wagle Estate, Thane West.
13 September,2024 09:05 AM IST | Mumbai | Kanisha SoftaIt's official — 2024 is the year of the bubble hem or more specifically the bubble skirt and dress, thanks to popstar Sabrina Carpenter’s fondness for this silhouette. But, if you turn the clock back far enough, you’ll recall that this trend is simply a rehash of your girlhood aesthetic, with a small glow-up that now makes it more appropriate for all ages. “Although it may seem a little hard to style, bubble hems are actually quite versatile and work well with a variety of body types and looks,” explains celebrity stylist Mitali Ambekar. The stylist shares a few guidelines for readers to nail this look. Colour and structure “By nature, the bubble silhouette is quite architectural. These pieces work best when paired with tailored separates such as boxy blazers. You could also layer a bubble skirt over sleek trousers or play up the silhouette with a puff sleeve top,” says Ambekar. At the same time, she advises that you stick to a monotone or monochromatic look (all-black, all-white or all neutrals). This keeps your outfit from seeming too costume-like. “When styling such a dramatic silhouette, pare down the colour palette. You can experiment with accessories to add a pop of colour to the outfit, or add textural contrasts by wearing the bubble hem over mesh pants. You can also add texture to the overall look with lace, ruffle or 3D accents in the same colour as your skirt. To keep the outfit from seeming too saccharine, pair your bubble dress or skirt with boots or even sneakers, as opposed to ballet flats or Mary Janes,” she adds. For more formal and sophisticated events, stick to calf or ankle-length dresses and skirts over minis, and wear high heels that elongate your frame. MItali Ambekar Dress for your body type Avoid hemlines that end at the widest part of your thighs if you are a heavy set, advises Ambekar. “Skip bulky or heavy fabrics. Lighter materials create a better puff effect. Minimal accessories allow the hemline to be the focal point of the look,” she notes. Additionally, she shares a few ground rules based on body type: . Triangle shape: If your body is heavy towards the lower half, add a bubble hem to the upper part of your body, with your tops. Choose styles that have embellishments around the neckline and pair them with tailored straight pants or A-line skirts. . Inverted triangle shape: For bodies that are heavier at the top, wear a subtly-flared bubble hem skirt to balance your broad shoulders. Finish your look with round toe pumps and minimal accessories. . Athletic or rectangle shape: Add curves to your body by adding a flare to the top and bottom, and cinch your waist. Ruched bubble hem tops paired with flared pants, or a one-shoulder bubble hem dress with a statement belt, are great ways to enhance your outfit. . Round or oval shape: Choose lengths that are longer than your problem area. You can opt for hemlines that end just above the knee or mid-calf and elongate your frame. V-shape necklines can also help balance the outfit. Complete your look with pointed pumps. . Hourglass shape: Simply cinch your waist with a belted bubble hem dress. Round it up with minimal accessories and pointed toe heels. Also Read: With cropped capri pants back in vogue, stylists tell you how to nail the trend
12 September,2024 02:44 PM IST | Mumbai | Anindita PaulADVERTISEMENT
