A Weaver of Dreams | Exclusive Interview - Sabyasachi Mukherjee
We are yet to come across any woman who hasn't confessed that she would love to be a 'Sabyasachi Bride' on her big day. Ace designer Sabyasachi, who pioneered the use of Indian textiles by using unusual fabrics, gorgeous embellishments and diverse colour palettes, is back with a showcase to remember at the ongoing Lakmè Fashion Week W/F 2016. As the grand finale designer, Sabyasachi is ready to bring out the best of evening wear for the festive season, with all things shimmer and shine, at an off site show that will be held at Mehboob Studios this Sunday.
On a sunny Tuesday afternoon, we caught up with Sabyasachi in between long hours at fittings, that had ensured some major hubbub. Unfazed by it all, we saw the designer quietly concentrating on his work, all this while being under the weather. But, the designer ensured that our conversation would be a memorable one. And, it sure was. Excerpts from our exclusive chat with the award winning designer:
Several fans and fashionistas wait with bated breath for your showcase. What can they look forward to at the Lakmè Fashion Week Grand Finale?
The finale always has to be larger than life. So, I have done an extensive collection, which is going to be both Indian and western at the same time. Silhouettes shall range from short, micro mini cocktail dresses to stately sarees and lehengas. It's all evening wear, based on the theme - Illuminate and Shine, as you wear shimmer and shine mostly at night. The collection will be broken into different stories, and there will also be a big performance by the Symphony of India Orchaestra. All this, at a wide and big set.
What do you have to say about the theme for this season - Illuminate?
India loves bling and shimmer. As we are moving towards the festive season, this theme is very well timed. In fact, we were independently planning to do a clothing line based on shimmer. We do a lot of traditional outfits and there was a need to break in to the market for cocktail clothing. So, when Lakmè approached me, asking if I would like to be the finale designer and informed that the theme would be Illuminate and Shine, I said why not! Both minds aligned at the same place and things just got easier.
Your thoughts on the all new Lakmè Absolute Illuminate range.
The make up range is extremely beautiful. You see, India tends to go either too glossy or very iridescent with make up. Illuminate is a softer take on gloss, and I think it will look much nicer on Indian skin. I personally feel that the Indian skin looks very nice with a little bit of a wet sheen or humid gloss. So, it's going to be perfect for us.
It's been more than a decade since you were discovered. How have you seen Lakmè Fashion Week and the designers involved change over the years?
Had I been discovered a decade later, I don't know if I would even stand a chance among these kids. When I came into fashion week, I did not know what a look book was and didn't even have a line sheet. I don't even know if I had prices on my outfits, leave alone tags (smiles). I wasn't even aware about the process of meeting buyers, nor did I have a laptop on me. In fact, when I got discovered, I had called my parents from a PCO. Everyone was saying great things about me, and the call dropped. So, I didn't even own a cellphone. Today, when I look at the kids, they are way smarter and organised. They have had a more aggressive education as compared to us. I have witnessed a big evolution.
What do you have to say about the melange of technology and fashion that we get to see these days?
The fact that we chose to showcase our couture collection on Instagram should tell you how much we respect technology. We have an entire social media team working for us. It's a medium that should be used to streamline, grow and democratise your business. I don't agree with the fact that technology should be used in design. As the world gets more and more globalised, people will ultimately come to you for handcrafted things. So, you can still produce handcrafted items, but retain the market through technology.
What are your thoughts on the Ministry of Textiles and Hon. minister Smriti Irani's #IWearHandloom initiative on social media?
It's a fantastic initiative. I have always said that we have a lot to celebrate in this country, but we only celebrate when the west has given us a validation. It's time that India discovers itself before the west discovers us. When somebody with a strong political will can inspire an entire nation to think Indian, it's a fantastic opportunity for all of us.
Since the wedding season is just around the corner, several fans wanted your comment on the top trends for brides.
Personally, I would always recommend that you don't think about trends. That's just not the correct way to shop for your wedding. Trends are transient, so your wedding outfits will become irrelevant in years to come. Your wedding album should stay on with you for the rest of your life. So, follow tradition and wear red & gold.
What's your trend forecast for Spring / Summer 2017?
A lot of pink pastels, monochromes and ombrè. Also, there will be lots of long, linear columns in monotones. Or, you go for something super contrast and sporty.
Love,
The Dancebee
Here’s why we think Sleeping Ugly is cool! | Sofy Bodyfit Overnight
As a little kid, we have all been fed a healthy diet of picture perfect fairytales. The main protagonist would be an epitome of perfection. She would eat, work, dress up and even sleep so perfectly, that it would put most other girls in her kingdom to shame. But as we grew up, we realised that life is not a chapter out of our favourite fairytale. Life is a real struggle and being perfect all the time is close to impossible. No one is born perfect, so why should you live under the pressure of being perfect all the time? Even while sleeping, eh?
It gets crazy during periods. You maybe a stomach sleeper or someone who likes dozing off in the ‘marathon’ position. But, during those five days, everybody gets into the commando mode - Savdhaan! Well, ask yourself - Do you really want to disturb your sleeping pattern and position every month this way? Is it really worth it, in order to be all perfect and avoid staining sheets, to not enjoy a peaceful sleep? Let me break the bubble for you. Sleeping Ugly is cool and totally okay. By choosing the correct night pad, you can stretch, twist, turn and enjoy a good night’s sleep. Sleeping with your regular Day sanitary pad is not a really good idea (there is a reason it is referred to as a Day pad, right?) Night pads come with a wider back, which keeps you feeling fresh and comfortable and enjoy a good sleep. It helps, since no one likes a pad that keeps shifting here, there and everywhere, leading to leaks and a lot of inconvenience (plus, no sleep). We were recently introduced to the all new Sofy Bodyfit Overnight, and were challenged to swap our regular sanitary pad with the new launch, which is known to be one of India’s longest night pads. Challenges excite us, and reviewing new launches is part of our job. But, does the product live up to all that it promises? We got our team member - Neha, to try out the product. She shared her thoughts with us after her last period, and here’s a round up:
What? - Sofy Bodyfit Overnight (Sanitary Pad)
Price: Rs 79 (Pack of 5)
Available in: 350mm / XXL (Packs of 5 and 10) and 420mm / XXXL (Pack of 3)
What does it promise? - The napkin is specially designed for leakage protection at night. It is the longest pad available in India, thanks to the wider hip guard, that covers your panty from back and gives maximum coverage, thus preventing stains/leakage.
Packaging: Inside the main packet, each pad comes in a disposable cover, which makes it super easy to carry while traveling as well.
Our Experience: We tried the XXL pack (350mm) and were quite impressed with the wide hip-guard. It covers the panty well, especially from the back. This helps, especially those who twist and turn a lot during their sleep (our team member who tried the product is one of them) or those who doze off in any of these positions - starfish, sleep-fighter, crash-lander among others. These pads have a mild fragrance, which helps keeps the period odour away. The pad was thin, not too bulky. One thing that gives this product an edge above it’s competitors is the fact that the super adhesive (on both wings and side wings) ensure that the pad fits perfectly. Thanks to the super comfy dry cover, the pad did not cause any irritation or discomfort,. The product, armed with a double absorbent coat, does it’s job well (even on Day 2, when things literally lead to a blood bath), ensuring there is no leakage.
Verdict: The Sofy Bodyfit Overnight pad lives up to all the promises very well, at an affordable price. While major points are subject to an individual’s flow (that’s the case with every pad in the market), we think you should give this one a try, especially if you are bored of trying itchy sanitary pads with a plastic layer.
Have you tried the new Sofy Bodyfit Overnight? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below or Join the conversation on Twitter.
Love,
The Dancebee
The Festive Brigade | Lakme Fashion Week W/F 2016
It's that time of the year again. Models and showstoppers are all set to walk down the runway in outfits that shall speak of glitter and glamour. Sarees, lehengas in rich fabrics with intricate embroidery and the works. The Winter/Festive edition of Lakmè Fashion Week is all set to officially kick start today. Fashion's favourite 5-day long fest shall witness a multitude of Indian designers and present their latest collections for Fall/Winter. It shall mark the arrival of a new season, where bridal, festive and glamorous evening outfits take centre stage. As we get ready to witness the magic unfold, here's a list of some much awaited showcases that we can't wait to watch!
Tarun Tahiliani: Tonight, the designer is all set to open the season with his showcase at a popular South Mumbai college. Tahilini's collection is said to be inspired by Mrinalini Mukherjee's artistry and proudly celebrates the woman of today.
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| Image: Tarun Tahiliani #ReadyToWear collection |
Manish Malhotra: Expect tons of surprises when Manish Malhotra takes over the runway. The designer's special showcase in association with Etihad, takes a never before seen 'tech' route. Malhotra's showcase is touted to be India's first virtual reality fashion show. Adding excitement to this showcase will be two celebrity showstoppers - Sushant Singh Rajput and Shraddha Kapoor. Expect a lot of trails, embroidery and floral fireworks!
Payal Khandwala: One of our favourite designers, artist - designer Payal Khandwala is all set to unveil her bridal wear line this season. Khandwala has collaborated with Lakmè salon to present the show stopping Illuminate Bridal Collection, which will include some fierce make up and hair looks. We honestly can't wait for this one!
Shantanu and Nikhil: This season, their collection is inspired by torrid love and Spanish tales - that of passion, romance and fearless sensuality. Expect a lot of Spanish influences along with ruffles, embroideries, detailing and dark hues.
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| Images: Shantanu & Nikhil Spanish Affair |
Little Shilpa: Designer Shilpa Chavan will showcase her latest collection in association with alL - a plus size store. This one's gonna be a special show, with plus-size models sashaying down the runway, like a boss.
Sabyasachi: Think zardozi, elegance and stunningly crafted bridal wear and it's tough not to think of Sabyasachi. The season's grand finale designer is all set to 'Illuminate' the runway at a much awaited showcase that will be held at a suburban studio in Mumbai. It will include three stories, that shall form one collection. Outfits from this collection take inspiration from from places like Kashmir, Paris among others. Expect lots of sophisticated red carpet outfits and glamorous evening wear.
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| Image Credits: Sabyasachi 'Firdaus' |
Do you have a favourite? Share your thoughts in the comment box below or join the conversation on Twitter! PS: Don't forget to follow us on Snapchat | Instagram | Twitter and Facebook [ID: @priyaadivarekar] for live updates from Lakmè Fashion Week W/F 2016!
Love,
The Dancebee
The biggest challenge about acting is patience - Brett Lee | Exclusive Interview
Most of us have grown up watching him rule the Australian cricket team in the 90s and early millennium. We cheered for him, as he took wickets for Kings XI Punjab (and later, Kolkata Knight Riders) and took the world by storm with his famed wicket celebration style. Later, we saw him juggle multiple roles, right from being a commentator to a post-match show host. As part of the band - Six & Out, he is also known for being a pro at acoustic and bass guitar. This year, former Australian international cricket star Brett Lee, is all set to start a new innings - that of an actor. The Indo-Australian film titled UnIndian, helmed by Anupam Sharma, shall mark Binga's debut in the world of cinema. Lee will be seen essaying the role of an English language teacher named Will, who falls in love with an Indian single mum (played by Tannishtha Chatterjee). We caught up with the dashing sports star on super hectic day and the excited cricketer turned actor, who was in the city for a quick round of promotional activities, spoke to us about UnIndian, turning actor, his view on the changing face of cricket and why he loves Virat Kohli. Excerpts from a fun conversation:
How was it working with the cast and crew of UnIndian, which marks your debut as an actor?
It was an absolute pleasure working with the cast and crew of the film. The most amazing part is the fact that they are so gifted and talented. They are very good at everything that they do. If you use the cricket analogy, we were all on the same pitch and worked together as team mates. Our common goal was to ensure that we make a great film. The film is purely shot in Australia and a lot of people in the country have appreciated the film. The reports and responses have been great so far. I really hope the Indian audience appreciates the film and our efforts.
You made a short trip to India for promotions. What was that experience like?
I was quite excited and thrilled about launching the film in India. It releases this week and I am looking forward to the response that UnIndian gets in this country. It’s been a lot of fun with several engagements being organised, right from interacting with children to adults and of course, sections of the media. It’s been encouraging, especially the response that we’ve been getting on social media.
How did you prepare yourself for this film, considering this was your debut?
I did a couple of acting courses, before the film started off. My experience in front of the camera helped (as a host for post match shows) and I tried to use it in the best way. I have always believed that my experience of 28-years, both on and off the field, made the transition more easier, since there were cameras around, all the time.
Did you face any stumbling block while working on this film?
Not really. But, I got to learn that the biggest challenge about acting is patience. It’s a bit like playing cards on the cruise. You really gotta be patient and use your time to understand that things do take time. So, that’s probably the hardest thing and I am glad I learned it on the job.
I liked the message that this film carries. It showcases the fact that love has no boundaries. You can’t help who you fall in love with
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| (L TO R) Anupam Sharma, Brett Lee and Tannishtha Chatterjee on the sets of UnIndian |
What was it about the script of this film that attracted you the most?
I liked the message that this film carries. It showcases the fact that love has no boundaries. You can’t help who you fall in love with, no matter what hair, skin or eye colour. I reckon that myself and my character Will is very similar to how I am in real life. That’s probably one reason why essaying Will’s character got a lot more easier. I strongly believe in the same values and share the same views. I think it’s a beautiful message to spread, at a time when there is a lot of unrest and trouble going on in the world right now. I think it’s nice to watch a film which takes you away from everything happening in the world outside. For 106 minutes, it helps you disconnect and enjoy something to the core.
You made your test debut against India. What do you have to say about your experience of playing against the country?
I have always enjoyed playing against them. It was unarguably one of my favourite countries to play against. We were always up against the best, whether it is Sachin Tendulkar, VVS Laxman, Dravid or Ganguly (to mention a few). It was hard to play against India, but it was this very challenge that I loved the most.
What's your take on the changing face of cricket today, especially with the introduction of shorter formats?
I think the game is changing for better. Of course, all of us want to make sure that test cricket is still looked after. I like the purity of test cricket. You need to be in love with game to follow five days of cricket. It’s called test cricket because it is like a test of character, commitment, courage and who you wanna be in that moment. But for me, T20 cricket has changed the game completely and that too, for the better. So with all the new premiere leagues and cricket matches, the future definitely seems good, especially for the youngsters.
Who's your favourite cricketer from the current lot?
I absolutely love Virat Kohli. What is it not to love about him? He is such a fantastic, gifted athlete. The kind of passion and controlled aggression that he possesses is unbelievable. It’s a lot like the way Australian cricket team plays, where they’ve got the controller aggression in place. I think Kohli has definitely got that and it is always a pleasure watching him play.
I will definitely look forward to working on more films. I am game to take up a Bollywood project, if at all it comes my way.
Several young cricketers from across the globe look up to you. What would be your special advice for them, especially those who focus on fast bowling?
If you are a fast bowler, enjoy being one! Embrace it and ensure that you work hard. I think it’s extremely important to ensure that you get the right training. Too many bowlers are lifting heavy weights. You need to check out trainers who can help out with high intensity cardio, low weights and the right training routine. I have always worked out at the F45 gyms. They are an Australian franchise and have come down to India as well. I think they have the perfect training for fast bowlers.
We can't let you go without asking this - will we see you in an out and out Bollywood masala entertainer anytime soon?
Bollywood is extremely colourful. I do understand that there is a lot of dancing involved in Bollywood. With a lot going on, it just makes these films extremely exciting to watch. Right now, I am looking forward to seeing the response to UnIndian, especially their reaction to me as an actor and my character, Will. Post that, I will definitely look forward to working on more films. I am game to take up a Bollywood project, if at all it comes my way. And yes, I’ll be ready for the challenge of speaking in Hindi as well as shaking a leg on Bollywood numbers (laughs).
Love,
The Dancebee
Love,
The Dancebee
Decoding the world of Mohenjo Daro | Ashutosh Gowariker - Exclusive Interview
Ashutosh Gowariker is undoubtedly one of India's most celebrated directors. The maverick film maker is best known for films that celebrate the nation's rich history with grandeur and interesting narratives. In a career that spans across two decades, the actor - director and producer has won accolades, awards and global praise for his films. After a hiatus of six years, with an exception of his telly series debut - Everest, Gowariker is back with yet another gem, featuring Hrithik Roshan and newbie Pooja Hegde in the lead. The film, titled Mohenjo Daro, is based on the life and times of the people living in the Indus Valley Civilisation - an era that we've all been introduced to through books, but have never experienced on the big screen. As the film gets ready for a grand release this Friday, we met the director for an insightful chat at his beautiful office in suburban Mumbai. Excerpts from the conversation:
Why were you keen on exploring the era of Mohenjodaro through your film?
Mohenjodaro is our first civilisation. While scripting the film, I was looking at it as a civilisation set 4000 years ago. Recent developments suggest that the civilisation was set 8000 years ago. So, it truly was one of the very first civilisations. We need to take great pride in that fact and make ourselves aware about what this civilisation was all about, who were the people and what times were they living in. We need to go beyond the little paragraphs in our school textbooks and artefacts stare at us in the museum. My aim was to give it a visual splendour and allow the India of today to get a taste of what it was like to live in the Mohenjodaro era.
How do you aim to form a connect between the youth of today, and the Mohenjodaro era?
We have all been in awe of films based on Roman or Greek civilisation, filled with grandeur and larger than life sets, but we never gave importance to a civilisation that was set in our very own country. The film does have relevance to today’s times, which I have tried to imbibe in the script. There is a sense of connect, which I hope the audience will have.
What is it about the Indus valley civilisation that attracted you the most?
The very fact that this is about a world that we all don’t know much about is what attracted me most to it. It’s pre-history, an era that has nothing written about. The period comes between stone age & iron age. Somewhere, you can compare that to the period between Nokia and iPhone, which had a Blackberry in between. The tools, implements, their concepts and it’s evolution was still in a very transient stage. I found that very exciting. It was a world where inventions happened. It’s a world where people are still trading with precious stones, like a Lajward (Lapis lazuli). It’s a completely different business module, which was fascinating. So, for me even getting into this era, by the way of this script, was to discover all these aspects.
What were your references for the costumes and looks of the characters in Mohenjo Daro?
All our references for the character looks were the figurines found from Mohenjodaro, Harappa and across all the excavations, even the ones in India like Kali Bangan, Rakhigarhi among others. With the help of archaeologists and the figurines, we imagined each aspect, right from the headdress to the clothes, and then built it from there. Precious stones were mostly worn as jewellery, by both men and women. We stuck to dhoti for men, as it is one of the oldest styles, though the draping style was changed. So, we tried to built things by not just depending on the figurines or our imagination, but also took inspiration from the oldest records that we had. Sites like the Ajanta - Ellora caves and even several frescoes were studied.
For the sets, we first started off by working with the archeologists. Each one of them specialised in different faculties, ranging from urban city planning, to pottery among others. We did a lot of research with them. Since these were facts, we had to ensure things looked exactly the same size. The Great Bath that we see in the song Tu Hai, is exactly the same size as it was in Mohenjo Daro. So, we tried to stay true to all the facts that we had in front of us and did justice to it.
Almost all your films have explored Indian history or have had the essence of India as it's core. Does that come from the fact that you take a lot of pride in being an Indian, and take a lot of inspiration from it's rich past?
Of course, I do take a lot pride in our rich history. There are so many eras, dynasties and parts of the country. They all have a tale to tell. So much, that I don’t know how they can all be told on the big screen. There are so many monuments; palaces and forts that are left behind, which you can look at with splendour. Most of us are only familiar with the Mughal era or the British Raj, because of the history we are taught or what the monuments that we see. But, if you travel to the interiors of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Orissa or many other states, you will realise that there is so much more. The Gajapathies, Krishnadevraya; empires that were so massive and existed at a time. But then, they are just confined to a few pages in the history books. We haven’t got a cinematic rendition of it. So, if I get enamoured by a particular period and tell that story well, I feel good. Ultimately, no matter how good your sets are and how well you create the costumes, it all boils down to a good story to make a film work. The former are all embellishments, but what matters is the story and how well it is weaved along with the characters.
As a director, which project would you consider as the most challenging one?
Without a doubt, Mohenjodaro has been the most challenging film of my career as a director. In the case of Mohenjodaro, I am trying to show how the system started. If you look at Lagaan, Jodhaa Akbar or for that matter, any other film of mind, you will realise that there are books, research materials available for reference. Be it the British Raj or the Mughal era, you know there is something that you can lean on, and then imagine the rest. Here, 90% of the work involved creating a world with your own imagination, and 10% was available through research, archaeological facts, excavations among others. So, it was humongous. You know, the manners and morals of the society, costumes, structure of the houses among others.
Any concept that you were keen to explore?
Buddha was something that I wanted explore right after Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey. We had started work on it, but the project had to be aborted due to some reasons. That’s when I started Everest and then moved on scripting Mohenjodaro. I haven't thought about Buddha again. The inspiration to get back to the idea needs come naturally to me.
Creating a different world takes a lot out of the director. Now that the film is complete and ready for release this week, what are your future plans?
I definitely need a break before I start working on my next project. It takes time to create a whole new world, and you need the same amount of time to go away from it. You need to get back to a state where the hard drive is completely empty (laughs) and one needs to reboot, before starting something fresh. I have been reading a lot of stuff and toying with some ideas, but haven’t zeroed in on anything particular for my next project.
I definitely need a break before I start working on my next project. It takes time to create a whole new world, and you need the same amount of time to go away from it. You need to get back to a state where the hard drive is completely empty (laughs) and one needs to reboot, before starting something fresh. I have been reading a lot of stuff and toying with some ideas, but haven’t zeroed in on anything particular for my next project.
Love,
The Dancebee
The Body Shop Drops of Light Serum | Review
The market is filled with skin care products that promise skin brightening. While we prefer running away from any product that unnecessarily promotes 'fairness' and forces people to dream of changing their complexion overnight (can't we just be happy with what we've got?), we are fans of products that hydrate and nourish. Stuff that can take care of our skin from within, and prevent it from further damage. The Body Shop's latest offering - Drops of Light, is just that! We were recently introduced to the Pure and Healthy serum from this range. After trying out the product for a month, here's what we think about it!
What? - The Body Shop Drops of Light Serum
Quantity - 30ml
Price - 2450 INR
What does it promise? - A very lightweight serum that absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving it velvety soft and shine free. Clinically proven to reduce the number and intensity of dark spots.
How to use? - Apply 2 to 3 drops onto the face and neck and gently massage into skin every morning and evening before applying a cream
Main Ingredients - Brightening red algae extract and Vitamin C derivative
Packaging - The serum comes in a beautiful 30ml glass bottle, similar to their Oils of Life Intensely Revitalising Facial Oil. This too comes with a tightly fitted cap, that has a dropper to dispense the product. Only difference here is the colour. The Drops of Life serum is housed in an elegant all white bottle. It is easy to carry and does not spill. Since it is a glass bottle, you need to take good care while traveling.
Fragrance - Light and refreshing. The fragrance is not very strong, but is good enough to lift your spirits and keep you feeling fresh.
Texture: Extremely soft and smooth. The serum is not too thick or runny. It perfectly absorbs into your skin and feel super light weight. The moment you massage the serum on your face, you can feel the velvety soft texture of the product. Zero greasiness, so those with oily skin need not fret. The serum provides good hydration for people with dry skin. The soft texture does not irritate, and is good for those with sensitive skin.
Experience: The Body Shop Drops of Light is a great light-weight serum, that can be worn under a moisturiser as well as make up, without making you worry about any heavy residue. We tried using it every morning and night, after cleansing, and followed it up with a hydrating moisturiser. The weather hasn't been too kind, especially on our skin and hair. Thankfully, this serum did a good job of hydrating our facial skin well. Post application, it leaves the skin feeling velvety smooth. We also tried using it without a moisturiser and still, the results were great. For a shoot, the product was tried on before make up and it helped add a dewy glow, which looked lovely. Even otherwise, the product does do a good job at maintaining your natural complexion well and adds a subtle glow which looks great. While it also promises to reduce dark spots, we think we should give the product some more time to work its wonders in that department. Like we always believe, Rome wasn't built in a day. So, how can we force any product to deliver results (on damages done over time) in just a month? Overall, we are quite happy with our experience and the serum has definitely made its way into our list of favourite skin care products of 2016 (so far).
Pros:
Perfect texture
Pretty packaging
Affordable for the price, quantity, quality and shelf life
Does not irritate the skin
Great to wear under make up
Tight fitted cap with dropper, which is convenient and hygienic
Cons:
Glass bottle needs to be handled with care
Verdict: The Body Shop has certainly scored high with their latest offering. If you have been looking for a serum that is soft, light, absorbs well and does not burn a hole in your pocket, go buy the Drops of Light serum and you won't be disappointed.
Have you tried any product from the new Drops of Light range by The Body Shop? Let us know your thoughts by adding a comment or join the conversation on Twitter @priyaadivarekar
Love,
The Dancebee
Madaari | Film Review
After a super packed weekend, we finally (better late than never) caught up with Nishikant Kamat’s much awaited directorial venture - Madaari, during the week. While we expected the occupancy to be around below-average, we were quite happy to see afternoon shows running with close to 40% seats filled. After close to two weeks at the cinemas, the film has performed very well, with appreciation coming in from both the audience and the film fraternity.
Madaari tells the tale of a man in anguish, who seeks justice after losing almost everything in a disaster. It’s the fight of a common man against the corrupt system, that continues to plague the society at large. Although at first thought, one can’t help but mark the uncanny resemblances between A Wednesday and the sequences that unfold in Madaari, the latter shines out in it’s own way. The film attempts to give a much needed jolt to the citizens, forcing them to wake up and save the country from drowning in corruption, before it is too late. But at the core, Madaari is also a poignant father - son story, with some wonderful emotional moments that are bound to leave you teary eyed.
In case you are one of those who still haven’t seen the film, we give you reasons to do so this week:
Ensemble cast: Kamat is a pro at getting together the perfect cast in almost all his films. In Madaari, we are treated to some fine performances by Jimmy Shergill and Tushar Dalvi, among others. The minister’s son too performs very well.
The Plot: Most of us have taken to Twitter or discussed the way we have suffered setbacks due to the negligence of those in power. Madaari perfectly showcases the plight of the ‘aam aadmi’ and his constant struggle to avoid getting exploited by the corrupt. There are instances where you might go, “Hey! This has happened to me,” and then, go on to realise that it is no one else but ourselves to be blamed for the mess that we see around us. The story of this film is raw, real and relatable.
Cinematography: If we had to pick any one major technical highlight of the film, it has to be Avinash Arun’s cinematography. He makes even the most simple background look beautiful, while ensuring that we don’t lose focus from the characters on screen.
Irrfan Khan’s performance: Reserved the best for the last. Has Irrfan ever disappointed us? The actor, who continues to make India proud as a global artist, delivers a power packed performance. An act so flawless and natural, that it almost looks he isn’t acting at all! He puts his heart and soul to essay Nirmal Kumar and showcases a variety of different shades through his character, all in the same film. Safe to say that he is the driving force of Madaari, and the one who makes your trip to cinema hall to watch this film totally worth it!
Verdict: Madaari is beautifully inspiring, and deserves a watch, especially for the brilliance that is Irrfan Khan!
Have you seen the film? Do let us know your thoughts in the comment box below!
Love,
The Dancebee
5 Must Have Bras for Every Woman
Most women stress on buying the right outfit, that not only matches their personality, but also the occasion. But, most of them forget that it is equally, or perhaps more important to feel good from the inside. No, I am not here to discuss soul searching or any form of meditation. I am talking about the need to zero in on the right Bra. We get so lost in trying to get everything right, that we often forget the most basic necessity - a well fitted bra, that is actually the right style and size. In a country that is still opening up to the concept of investing in lingerie and buying a bra according to the cup and band size (and not just any random S, M or XL), it is also important to understand that things don’t just stop there. Just like there is an outfit for every occasion, we need to have a bra that goes well with every outfit (and provides perfect support and comfort).
For those who are still confused, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of the 5 bra styles that are a must have for every woman, irrespective of age, size, activity or occasion.
1. Everyday Bra
The basic bralette or the good ol’ everyday bra is what you will find yourself in on most days. These do the basic job of providing good support and comfort. These come in both wired and the non-wired variety, and are mostly non-padded. If you end up finding a super comfortable bralette, that you cannot let go of, ensure you stock up on them in different basic colours (nude is a must). Ensure you re-stock in every 5-6 months (or as soon as the bra loses it’s fit).
2. Strapless Bra
This is a must have for all those who swear by outfits that range from cold shoulders to strapless or even halter. Good to go with necklines that are scooped, boatneck or square. Your best bet would be a Nude coloured bra, but you can still go ahead and experiment with colours (or best, stick to black). Make you check that the bra comes with the perfect rubber grip and has at least three hooks. You don’t want a bra that keeps sliding down, do you?
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| [L to R] - Triumph everyday bra and La Senza strapless bra |
3. Multiway Bra
On days when you decide to wear a one-shoulder outfit, this bra shall be your saviour. Most women ignore this style, thinking it’s not really necessary and that they already own a strapless bra. But, it can go a long way in helping you modify your bra according to the requirement of the outfit, be it a halter, racer back or even strapless. Investing in a good multiway bra will ensure that you don’t have to stock up on multiple ‘rarely used’ styles.
4. T-shirt Bra
All of us love T-shirts. But, nobody likes the texture of a bra being visible on a well fitted tee (don’t we all hate a visible panty line? The same goes for a bra). A well fitted T-shirt bra is a must have for all those who swear by tees, and wear them on a regular basis. These bras have a contoured cup made of very thin material, making it perfect to wear under a t-shirt or anything made up of a thin fabric. Perfect to wear under a silky blouse or dress as well.
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| [L to R] - Multiway Bra and Triumph T-shirt bra |
5. Sports Bra
This one’s for those who swear by their workout and fitness routine everyday. The biggest sin one can commit is to workout wearing a normal bra. Why on earth would you torture your breasts and further ruin the breast tissue? For those who think this style is made only those who spend hours in the gym, you are wrong. Even brisk walking in a normal bra can lead to damage, that can further lead to sagging. Be it Yoga, Walking, Running or any other activity, investing in a good Sports bra is a must. It provides the perfect support required for any activity. Also, don’t forget to check on the intensity of your activity, as that will determine the kind of sports bra you can opt for. Most top brands categorise their sports bras according to the impact of the activity.
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| Nike pro-rival women's sports bra |
With a variety of lingerie brands, both basic and premium, available on online shopping sites and at your local mall, things have become easier for us to find the right bra, that matches our requirement and budget. Go, get yourself measured and invest in some of the must-have styles today!
Love,
The Dancebee
