Shahid Kapoor's personal style is all about athleisure. It is unique, relaxed and casual. The kind of athleisure we love, with the perfect 'chilled out' vibe. Honestly, we have always dreamed of Sasha launching his own clothing line, and why not? He is the perfect ambassador for athleisure in India, with a wardrobe filled with hoodies, tees, joggers and some seriously cray kicks. Guess, abof heard us (and many of SK's shantics), as the e-commerce brand announced the launch of India’s first athleisure fashion brand, SKULT, exclusively on its portal earlier today. 

This brand has been launched in partnership with Shahid, who, according to the brand, has built an iconic reputation amongst India’s youth through movies such as Udta Punjab, Haider, and Jab We Met. SKULT, built on the principle of ‘Fashion meets functionality' and 'Design meets Innovation’, is an evolved style of athleisure which draws inspiration from all around the world, but is perfectly adapted for Indian sensibilities and body types.

Now, we all know that athleisure is a huge trend globally. Athleisure clothing is designed to withstand vigorous routines, yet they are trendy enough to be worn everywhere. Identifying the void in Indian wardrobes and taking the idea of athleisure forward, abof.com has taken this street-wear hybrid trend to next level with the launch of SKULT, which actually stands for Shahid + Cult. SKULT’s athleisure collection is unconventional, yet easy to carry and more importantly, reminds the consumer something about Shahid’s personality in each of its piece. “Shahid is a youth icon who is admired for his style. We are extremely excited to partner with him in creating India’s first athleisure fashion brand which combines the actor’s love for ‘fun and comfortable’ dressing," stated Kedar Apshankar, Deputy CEO, abof.com.

A video posted by Diary of a Dancebee (@priyaadivarekar) on Oct 18, 2016 at 7:42am PDT

Follow us on Instagram and watch Shahid Kapoor talk about SKULT

The atypical ‘Athleisure’ collection by Skult has been designed in-house by abof and has taken more than a year to work on this brand and its products. Commenting on his idea of SKULT, Shahid said, “Skult is about free styling, fashion and functionality. Skult is all about being yourself, wherever you are. It's about apparel that's an extension of your body. That allows you to express yourself with no restrictions or rules. Sometimes clothes that are cool, just feel too restricting. This line sets you free. Own style. Don't let style restrict you.”

SKULT is crafted to suit all occasions - work, casual or social. During our exclusive sneak peek at the collection, we noticed that it has a strong emphasis on black, grey, nude and monochromatic tones. The offbeat, yet trendy brand has a wide variety of merchandise for men in its launch season with over 250 options, which includes internationally trending categories like meggings and shackets. Apart from bringing these new categories in India, even the regular categories have intricate detailing - like thumb holes, drop shoulder jackets, scoop hem tees, long line tees with drawcord - which makes the collection really stand out. SKULT has used high-performance yet very lightweight fabrics - cotton viscose, slub jersey, grindles, melanges, snow heather, terry, lycra denim, cotton satin, and popcorn knit – with the single-minded objective to make it super comfortable. The line also consists of 50 key pieces under ‘SKULT SIGNATURE’ where each piece has been crafted by Shahid himself. Well, we will have one of each item, please!

SKULT by Shahid Kapoor is now available at http://www.abof.com/men/SKULT

What do you have to say about the collection? Join the conversation on Twitter with #DancebeeXSkult! Don't forget to follow us on Snapchat | Instagram for exclusive updates from the event and glimpse of the collection. 

There are very few actors with guts, determination and a crazy passion for the craft, who make it big in the Indian film industry without a godfather. By experimenting with his characters and giving his best in one film after another, Ranveer Singh entered the big league with a bang. Time and again, the actor has proved that real struggle, focus and hard work can’t stop anyone from achieving his dreams. Ranveer has carved his own niche and is certainly living his dream (even his social media bio is proof). He swept off all the Best Actor awards this year for his flawless portrayal of the Maratha Peshwa - Bajirao, in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Bajirao Mastani and has got Aditya Chopra’s upcoming directorial venture, Befikre, waiting for a December release. As he turns 31 today, here’s an exclusive chat with Ranveer Singh, who talks about his love for cinema, craziest thing he has done for a character and why he can never be diplomatic! Excerpts from a fun chat:

On his journey in Bollywood so far

When I started off, I was completely clueless! Although I had the experience of working as an assistant director and learned a lot, I didn’t really learn much about acting. Also, I was a low rank asst director and my job primarily consisted of taking care of the crowd. So, I wasn’t really around the area where all the action took place. Toh mujhe acting ki ABCD bhi nahi aati thi. On the first day of Band Baaja Baaraat, I just walked in and kept looking around. It took time to get adapted to the fact that I was given my own vanity van, where I could dress up and then, the team would call me when my shot was ready. I would often ask Anushka (Sharma) to clear my doubts about the entire process. I felt like a kid who has seen a huge toy store for the first time in his life. So, that’s how it all began. Right from acting to learning the craft and understanding how one is expected to function on the sets, I learned everything on the job. In fact, even when I won my very first award for the film, I was clueless about the whole process of entry and exit (laughs). Most of my pictures from that event had come out with weird expressions. Also, during my initial years, I wasn’t well aware about the way one needs to talk at a public forum. I would end up talking as if it’s my own living room (laughs). I often look at my photographs from those days and wonder, “Main aise kaise hua karta tha?” I would wonder if there is a certain mould that an individual needs to fit into, in order to survive as a mainstream Bollywood actor. Maybe, I was trying to fit in and it is only recently that I have managed to come into my own. 

On the turning point of his career

I think 2013 was a big year for me. With the little bit of validation that you get for your work, you do start feeling more confident about yourself and also feel very comfortable. After a dream start in Band Baaja Baaraat, I didn’t have a release for almost 19 months. It was like a quiet phase. So, when Lootera came, it was well received and earned critical acclaim. Then, a few months later Goliyon Ki Rasleela - Ram Leela released and that was a big breakthrough for me.

On experimenting with characters

I am a very avid film watcher and I get very fascinated with actors. I have maximum respect for actors who are able to completely transform themselves in to a character. One of my heroes is Daniel Day Lewis. When you watch My Left Foot, you can’t say that he is the same actor who has also performed in a film like There Will Be Blood or a Lincoln. His characterisation is so distinctive, that’s it tough to find out if he is the same human being. Personally, I highly regard actors who have that kind of versatility and the ability to transform. I have always aimed to be like that. So, when I first heard the script of Bajirao Mastani, I realised that this character had that scope. So far, in my career I have been able to it in a decree which is recognised and I am very happy to get that kind of recognition for versatility - from being a Delhi boy in Band Baaja Baarat to a very flamboyant Ram and then, turning Peshwa in Bajirao Mastani. For me, it is very important that the audience recognise that I am a versatile actor, because then, I will always have them looking forward to what’s coming up next. The same goes for directors. I want to work with the best film makers and want them to believe that whatever character or mould that they have created, I will fit into that.

The making of a character

I always ensure that I get some work done before stepping into the shoes of a character. Like for Band Baaja Baarat, I hung out with Delhi boys. I made friends with some guys from Delhi University, recorded their voice, took video clips. In fact, I found a guy who was a lot like Bittoo Sharma and I based my character on him. For Ram Leela, I did a complete Gujarat darshan for a week and worked on picking up the language, dialect, expletives among others. For Bajirao, it wasn’t possible for me to go back to the 1700s. So, I locked myself up in a room for 21 days and decided to cut off completely. In order to get into the character, you need to go away from yourself and your familiar surroundings. My process is different for every film, and I won’t call myself a method actor. I personally think method is a very loosely thrown around word.

On the craziest thing he has done for a character

I often do crazy things, but only when it is required for a character. For instance, when we were shooting for Lootera, there were major portions where I had to walk around like I have been shot on my hip. I have never been shot and so, I was confused as to how I could project this. So, I spoke to some army guys and kind of understood what it feels like. I felt there should be a starting point of pain, which can further be amplified while acting it out. So, I would staple that area, which would hurt a lot and in half an hour, the portion would go numb and you can't feel anything. So then, whenever the camera rolled, I would remove the pins and enact the scene. Oh god! It used to pain like hell. So now, when I watch Lootera, I find everything to be quite convincing (laughs). Because right from the tip of my toe to the head, I used to be in excruciating pain. A lot of people ask, why do I such things and the only thing I can say is - It's coz' I don't know any better.

On his biggest takeaway after playing Bajirao

His fearlessness! He is an absolutely fearless man, who did not fear any consequence. Not even death. He tackled everything in his life head on. That's one thing I have learned from the character. Why be afraid of anything? It's not that I wasn't fearless enough before this film. I have been quite fearless about all my dealings and choices in life. But after portraying Bajirao, it's even more. I really don't fear anything or anyone.

On his extra ordinary energy

I often wonder why people keep saying I am super energetic. Aisi kaunsi extra energy hain mere andar? I feel totally normal. Maybe, by the general standard of people in the industry, people feel like I have extra energy. It’s a basic thing, you see. I have always wanted to be an actor and I became one. So, whenever I get the opportunity to do something, I give it my all. Like Priyanka (Chopra) puts it, “You are happy with the just the fact that you became an actor.” I guess that’s where the enthusiasm and happiness comes from. 

On his work mantra

I am someone who does not believe in living for tomorrow. There is no guarantee of the future and I have always believed in living for the present. I live each day like it's my last. So, every time I perform on stage, I look at it as my last show. When I essay a character, I work on it thinking it is my last film. The thought that I may or may not get the opportunity to do what I am doing right now, is deeply ingrained in my mind. That’s why, I always give my best at everything that I do. I remember working on an ad campaign, where the creative director spoke to me at length, understood my personality and worked on a tagline that goes, “Ab mein sab daal do.” That’s the philosophy that I swear by. Leave the past behind, don’t think about the future. Toh jo ab hain uspar mehnat karo.

On Befikre

I am quite happy to be doing this film (Befikre). It's just what the doctor ordered after essaying a character like Bajirao (smiles). It's the kind of a happy romance that I really needed. A vacation that I have earned. Also, I was very keen doing on something light after Bajirao Mastani. My character in the film is absolutely lovely.

On not being diplomatic

I can't change my personality for anyone. I am very honest and open about a lot of things. I can never be diplomatic. Just that, after being around for some years, there are a few things that I am not comfortable talking about. Like, I don't allow people to shoot or take pictures inside my house. I don't  want my family to get into the media glare, because that's one advantage I've got over other people, the fact that my family comes from a normal background. So, I don't want them to get caught up in this fast and fancy life, that comes along with this profession.

On being an entertainer

I get very excited when I see my fans, especially when it's a large crowd. I love it! I am a people's person. I feel like there is always a positive exchange, whenever I meet my fans. Somehow, whenever I am there, people smile a lot and I love that. And when they smile, I smile back (laughs). I am a crowd pleaser, a showman, an entertainer and I like being that way. I like to keep people entertained through jokes. I love seeing laughter, happiness and fun in every atmosphere that I am a part of. Like Naseer sir (Naseeruddin Shah) says, "If the world is a stage, and if Life is a play; you, my friend, choose to play the fool." And he means it in a good way, as the fool was the positive one. I have no interest in being a king. I am very happy being the court jester (smiles).

What was the brief given to you for her look?

The focus wasn’t so much on the look, but the emphasis was really about helping Deepika with the physical demands in the scenes of the film. Deepika would describe to me what was required of her and then, I created a program to best prepare and optimize her performance. The benefits of this training secondarily resulted in her achieved physique. Though there were definitely no complaints about her results! 

What kind of changes were brought about in her regular exercise routine, for her look in the film?

Our primary focus was on active stability, endurance and timing. Active stability is where we create a joint that is strong and flexible. It is for joints to function through full range of motion. Endurance was important to allow her to work and function with sufficient energy and minimal fatigue. And timing also refers to how well a body is coordinated to carry out a task efficiently and effectively. Since she is also a dancer, I created exercises that were like choreography. This worked best in helping her connect to what we were doing. It really made me step out of my box and tap into my creative side. It’s also one of the reasons why I love what I do. Every client is different and you have to be able to treat each one as such.

Were there any changes in her diet during this period?

 My main concern with most clients is that they don’t eat enough food! But, Deepika's diet was pretty solid. So, we didn’t need to make any changes as such.

What was Deepika's exercise routine like?

A typical workout suggested by me begins with meditation and grounding exercise. We would then move on to mobility warm up exercises, in order to help her prepare for the workout. Deepika's workout in particular blended yoga, a bit of pilates (from physiotherapy principles), conditioning with weights, agility and dynamic exercises based on what she was shooting that day or week. Finally, some mediation to allow the body to assimilate and integrate the workout. 

How would you describe your experience of working with Deepika?

Love,

The Dancebee

In an exclusive interview with Diary of a Dancebee, Dia Mirza talks to Priya Adivarekar about living her dream of exploring the Ganges, during an enchanting and adventurous trip across several states for a recently concluded television show. Excerpts from the conversation:

For actress Dia Mirza, the opportunity to host a show based on river Ganga was a dream come true. “My father travelled by land all the way from Germany to India in the 1970’s and I grew up listening to stories of how travel defined, inspired and influenced my parents lives and their life choices. So, in a way, travel is in my DNA. And, I have grown reading about the Ganges,” says the actress. Naturally, the moment she was offered the television show, Ganga - The Soul of India, she didn’t think twice and went on to live her dream of exploring the areas around the holy river. During the shoot, Mirza traveled through several towns along the majestic river, from Gomukh in the Himalayas to the Gangasagar delta where it meets the Bay of Bengal. “This was the most enchanting experience of my life. The Ganga is one of the greatest rivers of India. A river that carries stories of our history, and is a trajectory of our present and a measure of our future. The river, which feeds over 400 million people, cuts across Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal. There are so many aspects of the river that leave you feeling intrigued,” she said. 

A nature enthusiast and staunch environmentalist, Mirza enjoyed every bit of the shoot. For her, each day was filled with moments to cherish, be it crossing the raging youthful river, mountain climbing at Uttarkashi or dancing with the Santhal tribals of Sonajhuri. The trip also gave her a chance to make new discoveries. Mirza says, “I try and explore new places as much a possible. While it is wonderful to escape to a place of comfort that is familiar, I am always more excited about discovering new places. During this trip, It was fun to explore the Rajaji National Park near Haridwar, Parmarth Ashram, 'Beatles Cathedral’ or what used to be known as the Maharshi Mahesh Yogi Ashram in Rishikesh, HESCO near Dehradun, Mussourie, Devprayag, Sarnath, Shantiniketan among others.” From villages, towns, cities, art, culture, cuisine; this journey was all about discoveries for Mirza. The actress states that the people residing along the course of the Ganga are a reflection of India’s rich and diverse history and culture. For her, the locals, their lives, art forms, music, cuisine, craft all tell a story, that shows a glimpse of the past and even the future. She adds, “Modern and ancient, old and new; several facets of India can be discover along the Ganges.” Mirza also indulged in local cuisine during the shoot. Right from Kewpies in Kolkata, La Tavola Conte and Chotiwala in Rishikesh to home cooked meals by families in Allahabad and dhabas along the way. She sampled the best of both culinary worlds and for her, every food experience was delectable and delightful. 

For a river that travels 2525 kms, the journey along is full of diverse experiences and unexpected weather changes. Right from -7degrees celsius at Gangotri to higher temperatures towards the Bay of Bengal, Mirza and her crew shot for the show through it all. Though the process got challenging during winter, Mirza admits that she enjoyed shooting in the cold weather, thanks to the breathtaking sight of snow covered mountains in the higher range. The shoot also gave her a chance to overcome her personal fears, as she indulged in adventure sports. She adds, “From jumping off a 80 metre high bridge on a bungee swing to white water rafting, I did it all. I have never done anything like this in any of my personal travel trips.”

  

Quiz her if the trip gave her little time to explore the place and more adventures at her own pace and she quickly responds, “If I were on a personal trip, I would have never been able to explore and discover as much as I did during this shoot. The extent of research done by the team and my own desire to weave in the powerful context of the nature and ecology of this river and how it directly impacts our lives may not have been perceivable, if I had set out to do this on my own.” Though, the actress does admit that she would love to visit the Ganges again, to spend some quality time in the forests of Uttarakhand and learn more about the Gangetic dolphins and the work being done to save them. 

Ask her for tips as a first time Ganga explorer and she says, “Keep your heart and mind open to discover India and its rich culture along the course of the Ganges. Travel by road if you can, because the magic of slow travel, those memorable stops, conversations and the meals along the course are what will all contribute in making this journey truly special. Visit the historical sites, sample local handicraft, meet local musicians, discover the beauty of nature and the vibrant ecology that supports the river. Go, fall in love with Ganga,” is what she suggests. Well, so do we.

Apart from the memorable moments and a chance to overcome her fears, the journey also left a strong impact on her mind. “Given how diverse the experience was, I got to meet many extraordinary human beings along the course of the river, who were shaping my impressions along the way. But, if I had to choose one experience that left me shaken, it has to be the sight of the alarmingly visible pollution of the river in Benaras. The muck, deplorable state of the water; everything hit me hard,” stated Mirza. But what gives her hope are the people on ground, who have resolved to change the future of the river. “The extraordinary work being done by people to bring awareness to clean up the river, to weed out the apathy and to stir the conscience is incredible,” she quips. As our conversation comes to a close, she makes an important point to create more awareness around saving the holy river - “Ganga is not just a river. It is the lifeblood of our existence. If Ganga does not survive, neither will we.”

Love,

The Dancebee

Love,

The Dancebee

I was around 8 years old when one of Dharma's most ambitious projects - Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, hit the screens. While the family drama kept me entertained, one girl left a strong impression with her amazing personality and care-free attitude. I was mesmerised by the fact that someone could pull off a character like Poo so flawlessly, without making it look too caricaturish. Other characters namely Kaurwaki, Sanjana, Chameli followed and needless to say, the actress went on to become one of my favourites. Not because of her beauty, nor the glamorous avatar (she wins brownie points for it anyway), but the sheer magic that she created, every time she appeared on screen. 

There is something  very charming about Kareena Kapoor Khan, who then went on to win many more hearts with her impeccable act as Geet in Jab We Met. Her sixteen year long journey in Bollywood has been a courageous one. The actress experimented with her roles, and created a benchmark that younger actresses could follow. Be it going size zero, taking up cameos in the form of dance numbers for fun or turning singer in Dev, she always took the unconventional route and preferred to follow her heart, instead of accepting trends that were often followed by her peers. Last week, I met the Begum for a chat at her office, just before her dinner time (she is very particular about food timings). She is one of the few people who can make even the most simple pair of jeans look glamorous. For someone who likes a heart-to-heart conversation over a WhatsApp message, Kareena still prefers to be old school and honestly, we love her for that! In a freewheeling chat, the actress discusses films, relationships and Ki & Ka, which hits the screens tomorrow.

The trailer of Ki & Ka, especially the intimate moments, gave rise to unnecessary controversies. How did you react to it?

We live in India. According to some people, everything in life is terminated once you are married. It's like you gotta change the way you breathe as well, as if you have sold your soul. But, that's not the case, right? I am an actor and my husband respects me for that. We are in 2016 and the concepts of our films are changing with time. If the two characters in a film are husband and wife, they have to be intimate with each other. There is no other way! I discussed the script and the requirements with my husband before signing the film. He was absolutely fine and said that if it is the requirement, you must go ahead and do it. In fact, he added that I have stood for a lot of things that go against the norm, which includes working after marriage. So, he has always wanted me to be the modern woman that I claim to be. People must not forget that I am an actor as well.

Image credit: Femina 2016

Ki & Ka is all about a relationship, and these days, the newspapers are filled with stories about relationships going kaput. Tales of separation and divorce. Personally, how do you look at such things?
For me, a relationship between two individuals is built over love, support and respect for each other. Ki & Ka shows how the woman accepts her man, despite knowing that he has no ambitions. Love knows no boundaries or calculations. Separations and break-ups happen in a very personal space. Nobody knows what actually happens behind the closed doors. That's how I look at it.

In the case of celebrities, do you think it is stardom that often takes a toll?
Not really. In my case, both Saif and I are actors. Both of us are busy with our respective projects. When I was shooting for Udta Punjab and Ki & Ka, he was not. Now that he has begun working on Rangoon, I am caught up with promotions. So, we often miss each other. But, relationship is all about making time for one another. You can't just make a statement and yell out - I don't have time for love! Women are multi-taskers and if one really wants to, you can always remove some time. Personally, I always try and make an effort to take sometime out to go see him. Sometimes, we both take some time off for a getaway. You have to work on things in a way that you get that little extra time for your loved ones.

Do you also think the fast paced lifestyle today has played a role in this?
More than that, I feel people are getting used to depending on all things digital. You get one million likes and folks go, Oh! I am so loved. I read stories where normal conversations, that could happen face to face, are taking place on Twitter. People are taking to Facebook to wish their loved ones on birthdays and anniversaries! How difficult is it to pick up the phone and wish someone?


So, it seems like you are unlikely to break your promise (that of never creating a social media account).
Obviously! I will never be on any social media platform. Why can't I just meet someone or talk to them over the phone? Or if I like someone in a film, I'll call them up or send them a note na. That's so much more personal and special. The only thing I like about Twitter is the fact that it can help spread awareness, especially during a time of crisis. But for conversations and using it as a tool to simply send out messages? Never. I think, I am still a little old school like that.

But, what about fans who look up to you and wish to connect with their favourite actress?
I like to connect with them through interviews, promotions among others. Also, it is not possible to answer millions of fans on social media. You will always end up disappointing someone. But, I am glad I have a strong and active fan club on social media called Kareena Online. They are almost like my army and are very possessive about me. I feel proud to be on Twitter and Instagram through them. With fans as protective as them, I know I am safe on social media. They will bajao anyone who writes anything against me (laughs). They will troll them.

You are now working with co-actors from the new lot. What do you have to say about their skills and the experience of working with them?
As far as Arjun is concerned, he is as experienced as any other senior actor in the industry. Perhaps, that is also because he is an industry kid and has grown up watching films. But, I feel all the young boys have great energy and acting skills, which is almost like a seasoned star. They are very conscious about everything that they do. They are all guns blazing, raring to go!

Image credit: Harper's Bazaar Bride

What was Saif's first reaction when he heard about the concept of this film?
He thought it was very cool. The very fact that Balki came up with a concept like this fascinated him. It's not a commercial blockbuster kind of a formula, with item songs and a huge ensemble cast. But, it has a concept from the heart, which will stand for something and be a nice film. So, that's why he encouraged me to do the film.

There is a lot of curiosity building up around your character in Udta Punjab. What is it all about?
It's a drug drama and I play a doctor. Udta Punjab stresses upon an important reality of Punjab - the drug busts that have been taking place. The film is more intense, gritty and dark, which is completely different from Ki & Ka. The latter is also real, but so much more quirky and fun. Udta Punjab is very dark and I am sure people will like the look once it is released.

Since you were shooting for the two films simultaneously, was it difficult to shift from a dark world to a quirky one the very next day?
In fact, I shot for three films from completely different genres - Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Udta Punjab and Ki & Ka, all back to back. As an actor, you have to give your best in each character and work it out as much as possible. For someone who loves cinema and acting, I absolutely enjoyed the experience!

Love,
Priya Adivarekar aka
The Dancebee