Haircare Routine for Healthy Hair | Home Remedies with Dancebee
Strong, luscious locks - a result of patience, nurturing and good hair care. Your hair needs all the goodness, in order to look healthy. While diet and other factors do play a crucial role, a basic haircare routine (using suitable products) also plays a key role. This is my haircare routine - simple head massage, using a blend of four oils, that I have been using on a fortnightly basis since age 16 (result of a random experiment, which worked wonders). It's an easy, fuss-free and inexpensive way to promote hair growth, keep it healthy and ensure your locks get some much needed pampering.
Ingredients: Coconut Oil (I use Parachute Advansed or regular Parachute Coconut Oil), Almond Oil (I prefer Dabur Almond Oil or Hamdard's Rogan Badam Shirin), Olive Oil and Castor Oil.
Process: Mix the first 3 oils in equal proportion, and only 2-3 drops of Castor Oil. Mix it up, and voila! Your potion is ready. Leave it on for 30 mins, and then, rinse using your shampoo (and follow it up with a conditioner / mask). Avoid leaving it on overnight. For best results, use as a pre-wash deep conditioning technique.
Tip: If you plan to store this in a bottle (for use upto 1-2 months), do not heat the oil. For those who are using this only once, the oil can be warmed in a small bowl (for approximately 30-45 seconds). Remember
Current Favourite Skincare Products | The Dancebee Guide | Beauty
Here’s presenting ‘The Dancebee Guide’ - a list of my favourite, tried and tested items and products, ranging from Skincare to Books, Make up and more. A new guide coming up every week on the blog. Starting off the first guide with a bunch of my current favourite skincare products - most of which I have used for more than 6-8 months. It includes a mix of purchased products as well as some that were received in PR - but, the experience and feedback is 100% genuine and honest. So, here we go with the current most loved skincare items - Tried, tested and loved by Dancebee!
Pixi Beauty pHenomenal Gel
Price: Rs 2250
A soothing gel based moisturiser, which nourishes your skin. Very gentle and hydrating. This is my fourth tube (only the first one was gifted), and I absolutely love the gentle ingredients (Hello, aloe). A bit on the pricier side, but absolutely worth every penny!
Clinique Moisture Surge Intense
Price: Rs 1800 onwards (for 30ml)
This texture of this moisturiser is so nice and rich, yet it does not feel too heavy - a major win for summer. Plus, it keeps my skin supple and hydrated for a good number of hours.
Bioderma Atoderm Creme
Price: Rs 599
Bioderma Atoderm Crème is a real boon for someone like me - with sensitive skin, that turns way too dry during winter. In fact, it’s great for summer too, as the texture is not too heavy.
Innisfree Aloe Vera Revital Soothing Gel
Price: Rs 550
I carry this soothing aloe gel with me, everywhere (smaller tube for travel)! I use this as a moisturiser first thing in the morning, and quite handy for a host of skin problems (especially sun burn during the summer season)
Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion For Sensitive Skin
Price: Rs 1170
If there is any body lotion I trust (apart from the Sebamed hydrating body lotion), it's this one! A little product goes a long way. Love this for sensitive areas that get super dry and flaky (plus, my skin turns red during seasonal changes). A little on the pricier side, but the 350ml pump bottle definitely lasts quite long.
Is your favourite on this list? Let me know! And, I look forward to sharing many more favourites.
*Feedback and thoughts are based on author's personal experience. The results may vary from person to person, depending on skin type, concerns and others.
Love,
The Dancebee
27 Years of DDLJ | Top Moments from Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge
One of Hindi cinema's most iconic romantic movie has completed 27 years! 27 years?!? Wow, that's a long time. We have loved, lived and laughed with this film since 1995, a year, when most of the 90s children were tiny tots (or yet to be born) and our parents lovingly took to us to watch this one helluva film, without knowing that it will stay with most of us for life. Yes, we are talking about the much loved - Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge - Aditya Chopra's directorial debut. Interestingly, the film is all set for a musical adaptation, which shall be helmed by Chopra himself, thus making it his broadway directorial debut. While the casting is underway, it is said that the musical shall bring together Indian and American teams. The musical will premiere very soon. Best news ever? Yes!
Rarely do films create such an impact, that their dialogues go on to become an integral part of our lives. C'mon, I am quite sure most of us would have said "Palat" or "Ja Simran Jaa, jee le apni zindagi" in between casual conversations (or best, to pull someone's leg). And what do I say about the legendary Maratha Mandir? The place has become a temple for most DDLJ fans, who hang around to buy tickets and make their mornings special with this romantic saga, which happens to be Aditya Chopra's directorial debut. It may just be a film for some, a romantic bible for a few others, but for those who have seen it umpteen number of times (and add to that, woke up early to catch the matinee show at Maratha Mandir), it is much more than just a film. It is a gift that they will cherish for several years to come. Well, that just explains the reason why even after 19 long years, the film continues to see a decent turn out, everyday, at Maratha Mandir, and has completed a legen (wait for it) dary 1000 week run.
On this special occasion, we list some of our favourite moments from the film.
1. Bade bade deshon mein...
Because after all, aise badi badi filmein roz nahin banti, Senorita!
2. Shahrukh Khan's iconic Smile
The reason why most girls born in the 90s had their first crush on King Khan.
3. The Towel and Rain dance
4. Toh kya hua...
That moment when everyone in the cinema hall goes 'Aww', including me, you and every other DDLJ fan out there!
5. The Hotel Prank scene
We all love Raj, and we can't stop laughing when he breaks the"Kal raat" waali news to Simran.
But seconds into the scene and again, we all go - Awww!
6. And Simran falls down...
And you be like - Say whaa? Isn't Raj just plain crazy?
7. The Sarson ke khet scene + Tujhe dekha toh
The song that made every individual hunt for that perfect patch of Sarson ke khet, only for them to run the Bollywood way and sing "Aankhen meri, sapne tere."
8. Ho Gaya Hain Tujhko Toh Pyaar
The song that makes you see your loved one around, successfully since 1995 (and the track that tops my iPod playlist, every single time. My favourite from the DDLJ album).
9. The Train scene
How else will Shahrukh Khan continue to save his lady love and pull her inside the running train, for the next 20 years? On a serious note, this is 'the' moment when Simran is finally allowed to live her life. The moment where the legendary Late Amrish Puri says, "Jaa Simran jaa, jee le apni zindagi."
10. Palat
Love,
The Dancebee
On this special occasion, we list some of our favourite moments from the film.
1. Bade bade deshon mein...
Because after all, aise badi badi filmein roz nahin banti, Senorita!
2. Shahrukh Khan's iconic Smile
The reason why most girls born in the 90s had their first crush on King Khan.
3. The Towel and Rain dance
Admit it, we have have all tried to act all girly in the rain, while singing "Kaisa hain kaun hain, woh jaane kahan hain," and post shower, tried these towel dance moves A la Kajol.
That moment when everyone in the cinema hall goes 'Aww', including me, you and every other DDLJ fan out there!
5. The Hotel Prank scene
We all love Raj, and we can't stop laughing when he breaks the"Kal raat" waali news to Simran.
But seconds into the scene and again, we all go - Awww!
6. And Simran falls down...
And you be like - Say whaa? Isn't Raj just plain crazy?
7. The Sarson ke khet scene + Tujhe dekha toh
The song that made every individual hunt for that perfect patch of Sarson ke khet, only for them to run the Bollywood way and sing "Aankhen meri, sapne tere."
8. Ho Gaya Hain Tujhko Toh Pyaar
9. The Train scene
How else will Shahrukh Khan continue to save his lady love and pull her inside the running train, for the next 20 years? On a serious note, this is 'the' moment when Simran is finally allowed to live her life. The moment where the legendary Late Amrish Puri says, "Jaa Simran jaa, jee le apni zindagi."
10. Palat
If someone like Raj, with a mandolin in hand and those magical eyes, says Palat, you might as well do as he says. Again, another iconic scene that went on to inspire several folks.
11. Karva Chauth
Another one on the 'Aww' list.
Aap convince ho gaye, ya main aur bolun?
In case you are not up to anything important today, just sit back with your favorite food, a tall glass of juice and enjoy this epic, romantic tale of Raj and Simran. A tale of true love, happiness, values, tradition and more. Thank you Shahrukh Khan, Kajol, Aditya Chopra and above all, the Late Yash Chopra for asking us to 'Come, fall in love'. Not just with the film, but with its ensemble cast, moments, dialogues songs and of course - Raj and Simran.
(Images credit: KKKG, SRKQueen and others on Tumblr)
The Dancebee
Ganesh Utsav Tour | Top Pandals To Visit In Mumbai
It's that time of the year again, when streets of Mumbai are filled with lights, sounds of dhol-taasha and enthusiasm. The whiff of freshly made modaks and puranpolis is hard to miss, while markets are packed with people bargaining for the best deal on fresh flowers. Everybody's favourite, the adorable 'Lord Ganesha', makes his away into homes and pandals for a period of 11 blissful days. Ganesh Utsav, as the festival is popularly known as, starts on the fourth day of the Bhadrapad month in Hindu calendar, and ends on Anant Chaturdashi [fourteenth day] with Lord Ganesha's immersion procession. Mumbai glimmers and shines during these eleven wonderful days, with fairy lights and sounds of peaceful bhajans all around. During this period, several people visit their friends, families, and explore various sarvajanik [public] pandals.
While Ganesh Chaturthi has been widely celebrated at homes even before the seventeenth century and was further celebrated on a large scale during the Shivaji Maharaj and Peshwa rule, it was only in 1893 that freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak popularised Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav. This was done as the means to unite people from all castes and thus, creating a sense of nationalism among citizens to oppose the British colonial rule. Since then, several mandals took to celebrating Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav on a large scale, year after year. Over the years, certain mandals have carved their own niche and have become extremely popular. Some are 'wish-fulfilling', while the others are well known for their celebrity attendance, unique decorations, idols and some serious grandeur. In this post, we give you a round up of some of the most popular Ganesh Pandals in Mumbai, that witness a massive footfall every year.
Lalbaug Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal [Mumbaicha Raja]
Popularly known as the Mumbai cha Raja or Ganesh Galli ganpati, the Lalbaug Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal will enter it's 95th year in 2022. Every year, the mandal plans a special theme for the decor and has also won several awards for the same. This year, one can witness a replica of Varanasi's famous Kashi Vishwanath temple. The 22+ ft Mumbai cha Raja idol will be seen in a Vishwakarma avatar. The mandal is involved in a variety of charitable causes as well. Every year, a highlight is the special tribute paid to public service heroes and frontline warriors, who are invited as special guests for the Aarti by the mandal. The beautiful pandal witnesses massive footfall every day during the festival, with the crowd swelling during the last three days.
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| Mumbai cha Raja at Ganesh Galli, 2014 | © Diary of a Dancebee |
Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal
Widely known as 'Navsacha Raja' or 'Wish fulfilling' Ganesha globally, the Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal is one of the most popular pandals in Mumbai - with the highest footfalls every year. Founded in 1934 (because of a vow fulfilled for the creation of the Lalbaug Market); Lalbaug Cha Raja Mandal has now entered the 89th year. Lakhs of devotees visit the pandal for a glimpse of the 'Raja' everyday. Devotees whose wish has been fulfilled the previous year opt for the 'Navas' queue, which lasts for close to 24 hours or even more. The pandal is open for darshan 24x7, with celebrities and locals coming in for the special evening aarti everyday. The idol has been sculpted by the Kambli family for the past eight decades. According to Balasaheb Kamble (President - Lalbaug Cha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal), "The theme this year would be based on the 'Ayodhya Ram Temple' - which is being designed by art director Nitin Chandrakant Desai. The designs shall reflect elements from the Ram Mandir, including a replica of the dome." He further added that a temple with Lord Rama's idol shall be placed at the entrance as well. Everybody's favourite 'Raja' will be back on his popular regal throne (while the celebrations were skipped in 2020, a smaller idol in Lord Vishnu avatar was created in 2021).
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| Lalbaug cha Raja - 2016 |
GSB Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav (King's Circle)
The GSB Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal at King's Circle celebrates the festival for a period of five days. This is one of the first mandals to introduce a 'skywalk' darshan facility, for those who need a quick glimpse of the lord. Various pujas are conducted all day long, starting from 6 am onwards and going right up to 11 pm. The special attraction here is the fact that this huge idol is made entirely of clay and is adorned with pure gold, silver jewellery every year. Devotees can also participate in pujas, tulabhar [weighing scale] seva or enjoy the entertainment programmes conducted by folk artists. Do not miss the special bhog prasad [food] which is served to all the devotees post aarti, twice a day. This year, devotees can book Pujas on their app and present the QR code to collect the Prasad.
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| GSB Mandal, King's Circle 2015 | © Diary of a Dancebee |
Azad Nagar Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal [Andhericha Raja]
Popularly known as 'Andheri cha Raja' - the mandal is well known for its unique temple inspired themes every year. However, this year the mandal has decided to skip a temple themed decor, and have opted to replicate the popular 'Laxmi Vilas Palace' (situated in Vadodara - Gujarat). Founded in 1966 by blue collared workers of Lalbaug, who had then moved to Andheri; Andheri cha Raja keep their idol for fifteen days and are among the few mandals that immerse the lord on Sankashti Chaturthi i.e four days after Anant Chaturdashi. This year, the mandal is expected to witnesses major footfall (especially now that the covid-19 restrictions are lifted). In the past, the mandal has won several awards for their marvellous decor.
Tejukaya Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Trust
Situated within the Tejukaya chawl premises, the Tejukaya Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal has created its own niche in the past 56 years, thus becoming one of the popular mandals in the area and city. In 2019, the mandal become the first to create a grand 22 feet idol using various recyclable materials. Founded by the residents of Tejukaya Chawl in 1966; a wonderful USP of this mandal is their majestic idol, which is presented in a different avatar every year, with the exact same facial features (especially the sharp, stunning eyes - that are hard to miss). One can also see a special dome, massive gate and carved elephant structures that shall be placed on both sides of the entry lane. It is truly a blessing to witness this beautiful idol in all his glory!
Raja Tejukaya Cha 2015 | © Diary of a Dancebee
GSB Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav [Ram Mandir, Wadala]
Popularly known as the 'Gold Ganesha', the GSB Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal at Wadala celebrates Ganesh Utsav for eleven days, with pujas and special aartis conducted every hour. It is also widely known as one of the first mandals to ensure their idol and all the gold ornaments, which are both created by the trust and donated by devotees. The mandal organises special folk entertainment, with plays, bhajans and dance performances going on all day. The 'Ratri Pooja' or 'Night aarti' should not be missed, as the sounds of traditional instruments and rituals will give you goosebumps [in a good way].
GSB Wadala 2015 | © Diary of a Dancebee
Some other popular mandals in Mumbai include:
Keshavji Naik Chawl (Girgaum) - Mumbai's first ganesh mandal
Fort Vibhag Sarvajanik Ganesh Utsav Mandal (Fort) - Known as Icchapurti Ganesh, among the first ones to have a dedicated song of their mandal
Sahyadri Krida Mandal (Chembur) - One of the most popular and award winning mandal in South Central Mumbai, best known for it's grand decor and larger than life themes
Girgaum cha Maharaj (Girgaum) - One of the tallest and oldest clay idols in Mumbai
Lal Maidan Icchapurti Ganpati [Parel] - Witnesses major footfall for their grand decorations
Parel cha Raja [Parel] - Well known for supporting various charitable and social causes. Also known for spreading messages supporting the environment
So, which pandal will you be visiting this year? Team Dancebee will be visiting most of these pandals in 2022. Follow our live updates on Instagram and Snapchat at @priyaadivarekar
Love,
The Dancebee
Bappa Morya Re | Lalbaugcha Raja - From the Pages of History
Think of Lalbaugcha Raja and what's the first thing that comes to your mind? Grandeur? Celebrities? Crowd? Wish Fulfilling? Well, Mumbai's very own beloved 'Raja' had humble beginnings. Ever wondered what the initial idols looked like? Or how the mandal was formed? Read on to know all about one of Mumbai's renowned pandals - Lalbaugcha Raja.
The Mandal - which was then known as the Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal (Lalbaug) was set up in 1934 in a simple locality, which was then known as Peru Chawl. The chawl and nearby market was forced to shut in 1932 and the locals - mostly fishermen and vendors, vowed to get a Ganpati if their wish was fulfilled. As their vow was fulfilled, the locals formed a committee and in 1934, the first ever idol was welcomed! The ganpati became famous as the 'Market cha Raja' or 'Market cha Ganpati'. As more and more devotees began queueing up to make a wish or fulfil their vows, Navsacha Ganpati and Lalbaugcha Raja became popular names.
The Ganpati idol of Lalbaugcha Raja has been created and designed by the Kambli family of Mumbai since 1935. Earlier, the idol would change every year as per theme and backdrop. Every year, the Mandal would pick a unique theme, ranging from independence struggle to mythological stories & social issues. According to locals, the mandal played a key role during the freedom struggle. In 1949, they have even had a Mahatma Gandhi inspired idol.
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| All Archive Images - Credit: Lalbaugcha Raja Sarvajanik Ganeshotsav Mandal |
However, post 1990, things changed. The overall set up became much simpler, with just a basic backdrop. The idol was seated on a king style throne. But, the idol features and pose would change every year (till 2007). Some felt it matched the name given by locals, which is - Lalbaug cha Raja (King of Lalbaug). As crowds began to swell, the space required for themes & decorations, also became a major problem (as the pandal lane is narrow, with very little space in and around). Hence, sticking to a standard idol was seen as a good option. Since 2007 (till now), all idols have had the same features and pose. However, since 2015, the latest addition has been a unique throne (prabhaval). Some of the recent ones include Owl in 2016 (Goddess Laxmi's Vahan), and a Kurma Avatar (Turtle) in 2017. However, the idol will not be seated on a throne this year (a breakaway from their two decade long tradition). Instead, virtual reality will depict the beauty of nature and environment.
First Look | A stunning amalgamation of tradition and technology! @LalbaugchaRaja 2018 - Virtual Reality depicts the beauty of nature & environment. The entire set has been designed, based on ‘Nature’ & ‘Wild Life’ as a theme! #GaneshChaturthi #LalbaugChaRaja #Mumbai pic.twitter.com/6BwKkvfFzx— Priya Adivarekar (@priyaadivarekar) September 11, 2018
75th year celebrations (2008) was a grand affair. The event got extensive coverage across various media platforms. For this special occasion, the Mandal invited famous art director Nitin Chandrakant Desai to design the backdrop and decor. Desai's royal touch turned out to be one of the biggest attractions during the festive season that year, with grand elephants (straight off the sets of Ashutosh Gowariker's Jodhaa Akbar) attracting massive attention. Since then, Desai has been designing the backdrop for the Mandal every year. Post 2015, he also started designing the throne.
Did you know? In 2011, the Kambli family became the first idol sculptors to patent the Lalbaug cha Raja idol design. As the demand for replicas went up and several other sculptors began copying the idol's style and features, Ratnakar Kambli (who currently heads Kambli arts) applied for a patent, making this the first ever case of patent application for an idol.
Over the years, while themes and idols have changed, one thing remains the same. The mandal, including locals, have always taken a step ahead when it comes to spreading awareness on social issues. Today, while the mandal does not have backdrops based on social activities, they organise events that help several major causes. Some of the prominent causes includes a dialysis centre, regular blood donation drives, plasma donation camp during the covid-19 crisis, computer training institutes with nominal fees, free IAS coaching among others.
No wonder they say - The King's empire is filled with love and support for everyone.
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Love,
The Dancebee
Top Amazon Exclusive Product Deals | Great Freedom Festival Sale 2022
Amazon Great Freedom Festival 2022 is finally here.There are tons of good deals lined up and we can't wait to fill our carts. In this post, we have put together a list of bestselling 'Amazon exclusive' products - which can be purchased (or gifted) with some amazing discounts. Ready for it? Let's go!
Echo Dot (4th Gen, 2020 release)| Smart speaker with Alexa (Blue)
Original Price: Rs 4499 | Deal: Rs 2749
Insights: A personal favourite! This smart speaker is worth every rupee spent - great sound, powerful bass, clean and minimalistic design, voice control for a smart home and lots more. Loaded with power packed features, and that too - at a great price. Definitely recommended.
New Echo Show 5 (2nd generation)
Original Price: Rs 8999 | Deal: Rs 4499
Insights: This one's a big discount for much loved Amazon echo product. A smart speaker that delivers crisp, smooth sound, and comes with a 5.5" screen. Comes with a built-in camera to monitor when you are away, and can also be used to make video calls using Alexa. Quite a powerful device!
Fire TV Stick 4K Max
Original Price: Rs 6499 | Deal: Rs 4299
Insights: Another personal favourite! The fire TV stick with Alexa voice control remote is a great push for your smart TV viewing experience. Packed with smooth 4k streaming and parental lock controls.
Kindle Paperwhite (8GB)
Original Price: Rs 13999 | Deal: Rs 11299
Insights: A great gift (or self gift) for all the bibliophiles. This model comes with adjustable white light and a 6.8" glare free display. It also comes packed with a flush front design with smaller borders. Plus, the sleek design is a huge plus. And, it is waterproof - so you can take it to the beach with you!
Echo Flex
Original Price: Rs 2999 | Deal: Rs 1749 | Echo + Wipro Bulb Combo: Rs 1799
Insights: A hassle free smart home control; the latest Echo offering called 'Flex' controls lights and appliances using voice command. You can even add announcements for other rooms that have a compatible echo device. Oh, and here's a cool deal - add the Wipro 9W Led smart build for just Rs 50 extra.
So, what are you excited to buy during the sale? Stay tuned for more big deals and recommendations!
Join the conversation on
Love,
The Dancebee
The Dancebee
*This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, it may help us earn a commission. Thank you.
Top 5 Wireless Headphones / Earbuds | Amazon Great Freedom Festival Sale
It's not just raining outside your window! Well, July is that time of the year when it rains discounts and surprise sales, and we strongly believe it's the best time to stock up on your favourite items at a great bargain. And, with Amazon Great Freedom Festival sale coming up (it starts today at midnight) - there are tons of good deals lined up. In this post, we have put together a list of bestselling 'wireless headphones and earbuds' - which can be purchased (or gifted) with some amazing discounts. Ready for it? Let's go!
JBL Tune 130NC TWS
Original Price: Rs 6999 | Deal Price: Rs 3998
Insights: Stylish earbuds with active noise cancellation, pure bass sound and smart ambient. Comes with 4 mics for clean and perfect calls. And, this one's quite a deal!
boAt Airdopes 141
Original Price: Rs 4490 | Deal Price: Rs 1198
Insights: Popular among the budget friendly category; this product promises 42H playtime with supremely quick 'fast charge', packed with the boAt signature sound and a design that's sweat and water resistant.
Noise VS402
Original Price: Rs 3999 | Deal Price: Rs 1498
Insights: This one's a new amazon special launch! Promises to deliver upto 35h playtime, smooth quad mic and environmental noise cancellation. A 10 min Fast Charge promises 120 mins of playtime. The sleek design has a hint of breathing LED lights.
Blaupankt BE100 Wireless Bluetooth Neckband
Original Price: Rs 3499 | Deal Price: Rs 1299
Insights: A 'Prime Day' exclusive launch; this one's referred to as a 'Bass Demon'. Comes with a real time, live battery indicator, vibration call alert and a powerful turbo volt charging. Comes in two colours (blue and black).
Sony WI-C100 Wireless Headphones
Original Price: Rs 2790 | Deal Price: Rs 1699
Insights: Upscale your music to a crisp, high quality sound with 'DSEE'. The design is sleek and splash proof, and promises a high quality built-in microphone for clear, smooth calls. Packed with 25h of battery life, and a 10 min fast charge promises 60 mins of playtime.
So, what are you excited to buy during the Great Freedom Festival sale? Stay tuned for more big deals and recommendations!
Join the conversation on
Love,
The Dancebee
The Dancebee
*This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, it may help us earn a commission. Thank you.
