The Catholic neighbourhood of Immaculate Conception (IC) Colony in Borivli (West) is known for its community-centric initiatives and football is close to most of its young residents. Hence, a bunch of youthful football-lovers of the Holy Cross Sports Federation (HCSF) in the locality are planning a unique Christmas Flea Market on December 21 and 22; proceeds of which will be re-invested into maintenance of the small football ground in the Holy Cross ground in IC Colony. Youngsters enjoy a game of football at the Holy Cross Ground in IC Colony, Borivli “The land prices in IC Colony are skyrocketing, so protecting open spaces from real estate sharks is tough. Somehow, we, Holy Cross residents have managed to secure this small ground for our children to play for free. But it’s expensive to maintain such a ground as trucks filled with mud have to be brought in regularly. Besides, levelling and cleaning jobs need to be undertaken. The average cost of maintaining this ground is around Rs 3 to lakh annually. That’s why we thought of this Christmas Flea Market to double up as a fundraiser, to help in the upkeep of our ground,” says Rohit D’Costa of HCSF. Local resident Ozy D’Costa adds: “While most football grounds have been taken over by artificial turfs, the Holy Cross ground is one of the few mud grounds in the area. Also, besides regular football practice in the evenings, even the IC Church’s zonal football team trials [for the intra-parish sports festival] are conducted here for free.” (Left) Lovelino Lobo, (second from left) Rohit D’Costa and (right) Sheldon Pires of the Holy Cross Sports Foundation Thirteen-year-old Jothan, footballer from Don Bosco High School, Borivli West, is among those who play here daily. “While I attend football coaching in school, I also need to practice, and this ground being close to home is the perfect venue. Many of my school friends, who live in different parts of Borivli, have to borrow money from their parents to play football on turf grounds. We are lucky to have this free playground,” says Jothan. The two-day (December 21 and 22) Christmas Flea Market will have a lot more than just stalls selling handicrafts and decorative articles, informs Rohit. “Community bonding is at the forefront of this initiative, so we will be having live music, carol singing, dance performances and fun games for kids and adults alike, catering to an audience ranging from tiny tots to senior citizens. Basically, everyone can come and join in the festivities for free. After all, ’tis the season to be jolly.” On December 21; 4 pm to 10 pm; December 22: 10 am to 10 pmAt Holy Cross Ground, Shubh Jeevan Circle, IC Colony, Borivli West. Call 9930357405/ 9930237876 (for details about the Christmas Flea Market)
11 December,2024 09:02 AM IST | Mumbai | Ashwin FerroA city that never sleeps, a city of dreams, Maximum City — titles for Mumbai that become familiar with those even before they arrive in the city. And while all these are true in their own way, a part of this writer’s immigrant experience also strongly believes that despite the constant hustle, and the reality checks, Mumbai, is also a dreamy city. A rainy evening walk through the beautiful lanes of Colaba after a movie or a stroll along Marine Drive brings out the beautiful cultural construct of the city. Poster of the 1964 film, Leader at a theatre in Nashik. Pics courtesy/Hemant Chaturvedi Following a similar vein of thought, Colaba’s APRE art house is organising a session where photojournalist Fawzan Husain, photographer Hemant Chaturvedi, and architect Nikhil Mahashur will discuss the changing aspects of Bombay through the lens of cinema, architecture and transport as part of the exhibition, Urban Palimpsest. “The panel discussion seeks to critically examine the evolving essence of Bombay through an exploration of its cultural and architectural markers. Iconic symbols such as the now-discontinued Padmini taxis or kali-peelis, and the single-screen cinemas, once highlighted the city’s distinctive character. By situating these elements within the broader socio-historical and cultural context, the panel aims to foster a critical dialogue on the shifting identity of Mumbai and its implications for the city’s collective memory and urban fabric,” Prerna Jain, gallery director, shares. A moment from a previous session at the gallery From single-screen theatres to iconic movie sequences, old Bombay has lent itself to the visual medium in more ways than one, reaffirming its presence in a common space between architecture and films. Mahashur tells us, “Architecture and cinema are very closely linked. When we talk about changing landscapes, photos and cinema are the foremost mediums to witness it. There is a scene in Amitabh Bachchan’s film, Deewar where he says the iconic dialogue, “Main aaj bhi pheke hue paise nahi uthata...” and you can see the whole stretch of Marine Drive in the background. These movies serve as great reference points in architectural practice as well.” Prerna Jain and Nikhil Mahashur For Hemant Chaturvedi, one of the panellists in the session, his passion project of documenting single screen theatres has taken him deep into the anatomy of a theatre house. “I have been documenting the single screen theatres in the country for six years now. From these Art Deco structures like Regal cinema in Bombay to today’s multiplexes, there has been a huge evolution of the cinema space in the city.” Hemant Chaturvedi, Fawzan Husain Covering 1200 old cinema single-screens across the country, Chaturvedi’s pieces in the exhibition document a rapidly vanishing cultural space. “In my tours around the country as part of the project, I have seen posters of films from the 1960s on the walls of these old theatres. This makes you realise how there has been a gradual erasure of actual entertainment spaces in the country. For people of my generation, cinema was one of the most elaborate entertainment options. There would be a whole process to it— buying tickets, planning the day, dressing up. Now that culture has died with single-screen cinemas taking a backseat, and the advent of OTT,” he shares. Photo exhibits from Fawzan Husain’s collection at the gallery Mumbai’s connection with cinema culture is inextricable, as is the role of architecture in providing a space to establish such strong roots in public memory or as Jain says, “These historical trajectories are interwoven with the city’s evolution, capturing its spirit, resilience and complexities as it transitioned from a colonial outpost to a modern-day urban sprawl.” On December 13; 6 pm onwards.At APRE Art House, 3rd Pasta Lane, Colaba. Log on to @aprearthousemumbai on Instagram
11 December,2024 08:55 AM IST | Mumbai | Divyasha PandaJust as we collectively heaved a sigh of relief that the reign of the boring ‘Instagram’ beige aesthetic was finally coming to an end, along comes Pantone with their colour of the year for 2025 — mocha mousse. The colour, which has been described as epitomising sophistication and quiet luxury, is admittedly a little boring. Ishaan Khatter in a deep mocha jacket set However, it is also incredibly versatile and almost universally flattering, making it a hot favourite with celebrities across the world, says fashion stylist Disha Selarka. And so, if you’re looking to swap those traditional Christmas reds and greens with something atypical, here’s our simple guide to wearing mocha mousse for the end-of-year festivities in style. Janhvi Kapoor dons a mocha toned gown with a golden sheen Pair it “Mocha mousse can be described as a medium-brown hue, which is a much softer neutral than black or dark brown. It pairs beautifully with a variety of colours, depending on the time of day or year, as well as the setting. Disha Selarka For instance, for day events, you could combine mocha mousse with shades of cream, taupe and beige for an understated but striking look,” shares luxury stylist and fashion entrepreneur, Meghna Ghodawat. She adds that for more dramatic night events, paring this brown with deep emerald, sapphire blue or amethyst shades can create depth and interest. Alia Bhatt wears a sequinned gown. Pics courtesy/Instagram Layer it A no-brainer with this warm brown shade is to use it in tonal looks, notes Selarka. She advises choosing pieces in luxe fabrics such as velvet or satin, and with self-coloured embellishments for a statement-making look that lets you be the star of the show. “Accessorise your all-brown look with sleek metallic accents. Jewellery or sequin work in warm metallic tones such as brass, gold and rose gold can add visual interest to your look. A great way to wear the colour from head-to-toe is to break up the monotony with textural contrasts. For instance, you could try layering knitwear and leather pieces, or throw a cropped tweed jacket over a satin slip dress,” she explains. Deepika Padukone sports a mocha coloured co-ord set Don’t overthink it The beauty of mocha mousse is that it can be worn across seasons and that it is also a perfect layering shade, says Aishwarya Lahariya, co-founder of Jiwya, a sustainable luxury fashion brand. Aishwarya Lahariya “Instead of going overboard with a complete wardrobe of mocha mousse pieces, you can pick one or two investment pieces that can be styled in various ways. For instance, a blazer or a pair of trousers in this colour can soften a power look for men, while a sleek dress in a cotton-linen blend can be dressed up or down by layering it with a white blouse or a wine-hued blazer, and the right choice of accessories,” she advises. The key to styling this colour for your skin tone is to understand how well it complements your undertone — if you find that it washes you out, wear the colour away from your face, with emphasis on the lower half of your body, Selarka signs off. Also Read: Up your sartorial game this season with these tips for styling trendy boots
11 December,2024 08:46 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita PaulOG speakRuchir Kulkarni, DJ and music producer, @ruchirkulkarni I have been DJing since 2007. So, when Dua Lipa played my Levitating X Woh Ladki Jo mashup onstage last month, it was almost two decades of work coming to fruition. The past week has been overwhelming, with messages pouring in from all around the world. The original playback singer Abhijeet Bhattacharya also thanked me for giving his song a new lease of life. Creating a mashup is more complex than just snipping and pasting two songs together. My process starts from singing the idea to myself multiple times before I find the sweet spot. I then check if the two songs can be pitched up or down to match their keys. My mantra is to not tweak a song to the extent where it loses its character. For those keen to try their hand at the art, I’d recommend starting with an app called Virtual DJ. It’s an easy way to train your ear and get better at mixing. That’s how most of us [professional DJs] started. Once you have your basics down, you can move on to experimenting with professional software. My pick: An upcoming mashup of Dua Lipa’s Break My Heart and Aamir Khan’s 1999 hit Is Deewane Ladke KoLog on to: virtualdj.com Also Read: DJ Ruchir Kulkarni on Dua Lipa performing his viral mashup: ‘A little credit would have been good’ Whose song is it, anyway?Krunal Ghorpade, DJ and record label owner, @kratexmusic Although I have a few mashups in my discography, I’m not a big fan of the concept. I prefer taking a song and remixing it in my own style. My version of Pune-based rapper Shreyas Sagvekar’s song Tambdi Chamdi blew up on the internet with celebrities like Shilpa Shetty and Ranveer Singh using it in their posts only because it has its own identity. A mashup lands you in a dilemma — double the essence in the track, but, ironically, none of it is actually yours. More importantly, securing usage licenses for mashups is challenging, as music labels are often reluctant to collaborate with each other. For someone starting out, I’d recommend they start from the basics of music production. FL Studio is a beginner-friendly workstation that allows you to experiment with making your own music on your phone or laptop. Understand how music works before jumping on a trend for the sake of it. My pick: American DJ Earworm’s annual United States of Pop seriesLog on to: FL Studio on App Store, Play Store or Microsoft Store All about emotionsAkash Jaiswal, DJ and music producer, @jazscape When it comes to mashups, the audience is not concerned with the technical skill that goes into it. The formula is simple — pick the parts that strike a chord with the audience and put them together. Trends play a big role in how well it is received. My mashup of Justin Bieber’s single Stay and Jasleen Royal’s Ranjha from Shershaah (2021) blew up because it hit the right spot at the right time. Jasleen continues to play it in her concerts even today.There are some easy tricks for beginners. If you’re looking to experiment without getting too deep into the fundamentals, Rekordbox is a handy app. Its host of automated features make it easier to mix music without having absolute control over the specifics. My pick: Post Malone – Rockstar x Taal mashupLog on to: Rekordbox on App Store and Play Store Try out these These AI-powered online tools promise to deliver a groove-worthy mashup in seconds. We test drive popular options to rate them on usability and quality RaveDJThis browser-based tool is the quickest option we tested. You only need to pick two songs, and you’re good to go. While the final result isn’t always perfect, it’s a great choice if you don’t want to spend hours deciphering music jargon.USABILITY 4/5 QUALITY 3/5Log on to: rave.dj DJ StudioWith great control comes great responsibility. This innovative app deconstructs your songs into stems — music jargon for individual layers. You can then remix, rearrange, and mash them up to your heart’s content.USABILITY 3/5 QUALITY 4/5Log on to: dj.studio FadrHow would the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley sound if he was reborn as a modern techno-house wizard? This genre-based remixing tool lets you bring your wildest ideas to life with the click of a button.USABILITY 4/5 QUALITY 4/5Log on to: fadr.com
10 December,2024 10:36 AM IST | Mumbai | Devashish Kamble1 The Gateway of India was built to commemorate the arrival and visit of which British monarch?A. King George VB. Queen ElizabethC. Queen Victoria 2 What material was used to build the first (temporary) structure of the Gateway of India before the gigantic permanent structure was built and completed in 1924?A. LimestoneB. Plaster of ParisC. Timber 3 Who designed the Gateway of India?A. FW StevensB. George Gilbert ScottC. George Wittet 4 Name the famous promenade that lines the Gateway of India?A. Apollo BunderB. Carnac BunderC. Wadi Bunder 5 What historic event took place at the Gateway of India on February 28, 1948?A. Arrival of the US President Harry TrumanB. Last of the British troops left IndiaC. Opening of the Radio Club Correct answers:1. King George V 2. Plaster of Paris 3. George Wittet 4. Apollo Bunder 5. Last of the British troops left India
10 December,2024 08:59 AM IST | Mumbai | The Guide TeamTweet the joy Celebrate Christmas by crafting a DIY wooden gingerbread birdhouse. The kit includes a pre-cut wooden birdhouse, paints, lights, decorations, and step-by-step assembly instructions. It comes with a hook for easy hanging on a tree or windowsill.Call: 9769037996 Cost: Rs 1,600 Floral fun Spruce up your holiday table at this hands-on floral design workshop. Create your own Christmas floral arrangement with provided materials and take your festive masterpiece home.ON December 21; 9.30 am to 12.30 pmAT Institute of Floral Design, LJ Education & Training Center, NC Kelkar Road, Dadar West. Log on to: @instituteoffloraldesignindiaCall: 9769768838Cost: Rs 3,500 Cup of happiness Design and decorate your own personalised holiday mug in this guided hands-on workshop. Add custom clay decorations to make your mug unique, and enjoy sipping hot chocolate from your festive creation.Age limit: 8 years and aboveON December 22; 12 pm to 3 pmAT Nautilus Candies, 5AA Pali Hill, Bandra West. Log on to: @desiartstudio_india Call: 8655615440 Cost: Rs 1,500 Whip up Christmas cheer Here, kids will learn to make hot chocolate, blueberry muffins, brownies with chocolate mousse, and decorate cookies. The little bakers can carry home their treats, a recipe book and a certificate. Age limit: From 8 years to 16 yearsON December 15; 9 am to 12 pmAT Nolita Cacao, Ground floor 1st Road, Govind Dham, Ram Krishna Nagar, Khar West. Log on to: @nolita.inCall: 9380500300Cost: Rs 2,500 Light up the holidays Brighten up the season with Christmas-themed candles. Let the kids get creative at this candle making workshop and craft tree, Santa, snowflake, and gingerbread man-shaped candles. Age limit: From 6 years to 16 yearsON December 15; 4 pm to 6 pmAT Revealed on requestLog on to: @martinibynidhiCall: 9867673627 Cost: Rs 1,500 Tree-time fun Build a tree that lasts beyond this holiday season at this woodworking workshop. Guided by experts, kids will learn to safely craft and decorate their own wooden Christmas trees.Age limit: 10 years and aboveON December 15; 10.30 am to 12.30 pmAT Museum of Solutions; Victoria House, Lower Parel. Log on to: @museumofsolutionsCall: 8828481000 Cost: Rs 999 Also Read: Meet Mumbai’s OG Christmas bakers Also Check Out >> This stitch-it-yourself weekend workshop lets children tap into their creativity to create personalised stockings, and festive decorations. Age limit: Above 7 years ON December 21 and 22; 4.30 pm to 6.30 pmAT The Hab by Usha, G 1 no 444 Corporate Lounge, Khar West. Log on to: @thehab_ushaCall: 7777026367Cost: Rs 2,499 >> A three-day workshop lets kids create festive crafts like 3D Christmas trees, clay models, canvas paintings, and more, with an optional DIY Christmas card kit available. Age limit: From 3 to 15 yearsON December 13 to 18; 3 pm to 5 pmAT Hema’s Hues, 1st floor, Chandrabhaga Housing Society, Anant Vishram Nagvekar Marg, Prabhadevi. Log on to: @hemashuesCall: 9967773558 Cost: R1,500 >> Sign up for workshops on tote bag painting, mug design, gingerbread house decorating, and cookie decorating.ON December 10 onwards;12 pm onwardsAT Hue by SLA, 47, St Francis Avenue, Willingdon, Santacruz West. Log on to: @huebysla Call: 9082462997 Cost: R1,099 onwards
10 December,2024 08:56 AM IST | Mumbai | Kanisha SoftaPrafulla would certainly have a smile if she saw the murals and street art all across Mumbai today,” shares Savita Apte. The art historian and founder-director, Art Dubai, is in the city as part of the retrospective titled Prafulla: A Retrospective, on the Indian modernist, Prafulla Dahanukar that opens at the Jehangir Art Gallery this week. Like many, Apte attributes Dahanukar for her eventual choice to write and research art. These twin personas of the artist and patron shape the retrospective curated by Dr Beth Citron. Prafulla Dahanukar. Pics Courtesy/PDAF Put together by the family, the retrospective will be mirrored by Prerna, an exhibition by 41 fellowship-awardees of the Prafulla Dahanukar Art Foundation (PDAF), which celebrates a decade of its own journey. “It is important to understand that she was also a patron of the arts, and went beyond her role as an artist. As important as it is to celebrate her as an artist, we thought it is also important to celebrate her role in sustaining a new generation of artists,” shares daughter Gopika Dahanukar. A peer of artists like B Prabha and Nasreen Mohammedi, Dahanukar’s rise post her graduation from Sir JJ School of Art defined her. Citron, curator of Modern and Contemporary Asian and Asian Diaspora Art at the Asia Society Museum in New York, notes, “While Prafulla’s name and, to an extent, her canvases are well known, most audiences are not aware of the breadth of her practice across mediums as well as her key role in the development of modernist abstraction in India.” Apte adds, “I would say Prafulla [Dahanukar] came to abstraction quite early in her career. She had received a scholarship from Stanley William Hayter’s art studio, Atelier 17, in the Paris of early 1960s. It allowed her to witness the abstract creations of post-World War II Paris, and also offered her the opportunity to produce prints that resolved abstraction in her own mind.” Dr Beth Citron and Savita Apte The retrospective will delve into the very ‘Indian philosophy of abstraction’ that she defined, but also expand into her vast range. Citron points out, “Prafulla [Dahanukar] set herself apart in experimenting with various mediums from the beginning of her career. This included an important series of prints made at Atelier 17 in Paris in 1961, and more sustainedly her work in ceramic and other mediums for murals and public art installations in Mumbai and beyond.” The murals, for instance, are an example of pioneering work. Starting with the famed mural on the side of the Shiv Sagar Estate built by IM Kadri in Worli, Dahanukar went on to create many more in Mumbai, as well as in the Middle East. “As far as we are able to discern, she was one of the first women to have been granted large mural projects. There were muralists before her, but they were all men as far as we can tell,” Apte shares. The art historian has been searching through the archives for images of these murals for her upcoming book on the artist and her journey, created in collaboration with the family, to release next year. She will also join Gopika and Citron in a panel talk presented by Asia Society India, Ecologies of Abstraction, to explore Dahanukar’s groundbreaking contributions. The artist’s daughter Gauri Mehta adds, “Her love for experimenting with materials and ceramics in public art murals gradually matured into more introspective and abstract expressions.” For Citron though, the diversity of the retrospective adds to its value. “There are so many jewels in the exhibition, but in terms of emotional intensity I would draw your attention to the early watercolours that were part of her 1961-62 sketchbook — these give an incredible sense of her hand as she worked through the possibilities of abstraction at that moment.” Like the person herself, there are multiple facets to her art that make Prafulla Dahanukar interesting for art lovers, historians and students today. FROM December 10, 6 pm (preview); December 11 to December 16, 11 am to 7 pm AT Jehangir Art Gallery, Kala Ghoda, Fort.
10 December,2024 08:45 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarCan you count the number of taps in your home? You can stop when you reach four, because that’s already more than the entire neighbourhood of Char Nal in Govandi where residents line up for their share of potable water every day. Filmmaker Akanksha Gupta will unveil many such stories of Mumbai’s piped water system, and how it shapes the city’s population, politics, and lifestyle on her walk titled Tracing the Footsteps of Water this Sunday. Gupta’s walk will begin at Hanging Gardens in Malabar Hill that stands upon one of the two oldest reservoirs of the city (the second being the Bhandarwada reservoir in Mazgaon). These reservoirs were built by the Municipal Water Works that supplied water to the city in the late 1800s. The high elevation of the hill made it the right choice for a reservoir location to cater to the sudden surge in demand for water in the mid-1800s, we learn. “It is only fair to start our walk at the point where water enters the city from the seas and charts its complex journey to quench Mumbai’s thirst,” she says. Akanksha Gupta (in green) reads out a Municipal Water Works stone plaque at Hanging Gardens; (right) Kamala Nehru Park offers a view of Cuffe Parade, where the municipal water works terminate The participants will pass through nearly 10 such spots across the city, including Kamla Nehru Park where a bird’s eye view of the waterworks extending to the southern tip in Cuffe Parade awaits them. Gupta believes that another location, the Banganga Tank in Walkeshwar — one of the few freshwater tanks in the city — is a classic case of how a water body shapes beliefs and culture in an urban metropolis through time. This water exploration will conclude with its final stop in the neighbourhood around Metro Cinema that was once home to a number of wells and artificial tanks, Gupta reveals. “These tanks and wells served the residents before they were subsequently filled to make way for other infrastructural projects,” she shares, adding, “You can read about these tanks and wells in books but physically being there opens your eyes to the prosperity they brought to the residents.” Gupta circles back to the research she undertook in 2020 while working on a shortfilm based in Govandi, where the city’s now evolved water works dictate not only prosperity, but struggle. “Sometimes participants on the walk are surprised to know that there are neighbourhoods in Mumbai that don’t receive 24-hour water supply. Or that women continue to carry pots to fill water at community taps,” the filmmaker shares. This disparity, and the policies that shape it, are subjects best discussed while tracing the Maximum City’s water works on foot, she says. ON December 15; 11 amAT Hanging Gardens, Malabar Hill. (Meeting point revealed on registration) LOG ON TO @akanksha2647 ENTRY Rs 1,000
09 December,2024 12:19 PM IST | Mumbai | Devashish KambleAlthough he describes himself as ‘knowing nothing about fashion’ on his Instagram page, Vir Das’s look at the recent International Emmy Awards was as hotly discussed as his history-making turn as the host for the prestigious event. Das, who conducted a nation-wide hunt for fresh talent to design his look, picked Delhi-based Shubhangi Bajpai from more than 4,000 entries. The winning outfit was a suit that comprised a crisp single-button tailored jacket and pleated lungi-inspired pants (made in fine wool suiting). Das accessorised with a modern cummerbund, which had a button closure, and a minimal emerald necklace. According to fashion designer Sanjana Bubber, while Das’s ensemble may have seemed relatively simpler, it was neither lacking in impact or style. “The garment paid homage to the modern Indian — one who is mindful of his/her roots and is also well-travelled, has ample exposure to global trends and will not compromise on his/her personal aesthetic identity,” she notes. Indeed, the outfit included several hat-tips to India, from chikankari embroidery to fabrics sourced from destinations as disparate as Gujarat, Hyderabad and Mumbai. This combination of the eclectic and the deeply personal is one of 2025’s biggest trend alerts, Bubber adds. The deep plum kurta like Arjun Kapoor’s can be perfect evening attire; Shah Rukh Khan sports a beige bandhgala; Vicky Kaushal in a grey tailored suit; Aditya Roy Kapur aces the look with a tone-on-tone embroidered piece Make it yours “In the current Indian landscape, fashion is becoming deeply personal, with expressionism at the forefront. The modern Indian man is eager to showcase his unique personality, in the form of experimental and bold fashion choices, all of which are underpinned by a strong narrative. Vir Das is a great example of this,” says Bubber. She points out that Das typically gravitates towards black and silhouettes that are typically Western but also pay homage to his cultural roots. This, she says, is apparent in his look for the Emmys — the clean lines of the tuxedo exude understated and quiet confidence, which perfectly mirrors his personality. Das also wore a green gemstone, which celebrates Indian crafts as well as the green tie Das wore to school. Instead of formal footwear, Das broke the mould by pairing his suit with sneakers that added an edgy and casual air; perhaps, reflecting the rebellious nature of his brand of comedy. Bubber suggests customising your pieces with a touch of this style of personalisation. “Accessories are a great way to add individual touches. Instead of wearing a necklace because you’re meant to, pick a customised pocket square, bowtie or silk stole that has a unique motif. Another way to incorporate your heritage is with an heirloom jewellery accent, such as a brooch,” she explains. Sanjana Bubber Understated but statement-making When it comes to menswear, there is a noticeable shift towards tailored and understated pieces, which exude sophistication while being wearable and versatile, says Bubber. She explains that the emphasis on sustainability has compelled consumers to consciously choose pieces that are repeatable. And so, it follows that garments that are subtle and have a modern twist are in higher demand. “The contemporary aesthetic is one of balance, of combining sleeker silhouettes [including geometric and asymmetrical patterns] with traditional elements. Many men are also favouring more classic styles, which can be worn and re-worn in multiple ways,” she says. Men are now favouring slimmer fits and shorter lengths, with pieces such as tailored bandhgalas, achkans and sherwanis with contemporary cuts finding favour. Geometric surface embroidery is replacing very heavy pieces, just as tone-on-tone thread work, as well as cutdana and pearl embroidery are replacing abla embroidery and mirror work. For accessories, she suggests highlighting one or two focal aspects instead of going overboard with a variety of pieces. If your garment is bold and vibrant, she suggests opting for sleek accessories. For instance, a bandhgala that has a French cuff can be worn with sleek cufflinks, while a cream-on-cream sherwani can be accessorised with a pearl necklace. Details matter Whether dressing for festivals or more officious formal events, Bubber suggests paying attention to the fabric: Luxe fabrics that highlight comfort will score you style points over heavier and bulkier counterparts. “Lightweight luxurious fabrics such as silk blends, raw silk, linen blends, cotton-silk, velvet, crepe wool and Indian jacquards are practical, breathable and yet elegant. Opt for self-woven designs, or self-on-self motifs that are either printed or embroidered. In terms of colours, earthy and pastel tones are more in vogue as compared to very bright or shocking hues — while taupe, sage green, beige and grey work well for day and evening events, if you prefer a royal look, shades like sapphire blue, deep plum, rich wine and classic black are always in style. You could also accentuate business suits with delicate Indian touches,” Bubber shares. A dark grey slim-fit suit can be dressed up with an embroidered collar or cuff detail. Regardless of whether you prefer a slim, semi or loose fit, ensure your garments are tailored to suit your body type. Finally, your prints and embroidery should be in proportion to your body shape and type for your look to leave a lasting impression, she suggests.
09 December,2024 09:18 AM IST | Mumbai | Anindita PaulIn 2020, when he opened the performance of Unbroken, Unbowed in Delhi, the late Astad Deboo remarked on the quote by Mahatma Gandhi, ‘It is easier to stand with the crowd, but it takes courage to stand alone’. While it is simpler to attribute the phrasing to the production with the Salaam Balak Trust, reading Ketu Katrak’s latest biography on the Padma Shri-awardee — Astad Deboo: An Icon of Contemporary Indian Dance (Seagull Books) — offers a deeper context, one that Astad Deboo lived by. “It [the book] was really a labour of love since he was a dear friend as well as an artiste I had admired,” shares Katrak over a phone call. Professor emerita of drama at the University of California, Katrak’s insight adds layers to the biography. “I co-edited a special edition on contemporary dance for Marg [the magazine] with him in 2016. That was when he planted the seed of me writing a book about him,” she recalls. The journey took over four years though before it came into fruition, despite the passing of Deboo and the COVID-19 pandemic interrupting it. Ketu Katrak As Katrak says, it was a challenge to get the balance right. “I wanted it to be a scholarly look at the performer, and not just an anecdotal recall,” she says. In that sense, Deboo’s humanism and curiosity towards life, and the search for new languages in dance are part of the same story. This is most apparent in the recollections of the choreographer’s friends and peers. Katrak admits as much, saying, “In that, he was extremely unique in accepting people on their own terms. A friend recalled how, if Astad felt you were depressed, he would call you every day to make sure you were okay. Even Hema Rajagopalan, a classical dancer based in Chicago, lovingly shared the moments of Astad calling to check in on her father’s health.” Astad Deboo in front of Anish Kapoor’s The Bean in Chicago Whether it is the unforgettable performance of Broken Pane — shaped by a visit to a rehabilitation centre for drug addicts in Canada — or working with hearing-impaired performers from the Clarke School for the Deaf, and the Salaam Balak Trust, Deboo’s productions reflect this sensitive nature. “The humanity drove him, but the craft was his own. The other thing was that while the dancers imbibed Astad’s choreography, which was quite challenging, he never imposed his style on any of them. They all recalled him as an amazing mentor, an almost father-like-figure who taught them about more than just dance,” she notes. As lovely as the anecdotes of Deboo’s friendship, humanity and love for food is — “He was called refrigerator by friends since he would make a beeline for the fridge every time he visited,” chuckles Katrak — the book is also detailed on the technical aspects. Deboo in a crane-motif costume, designed by Ashdeen Lilaowala The author’s previous work on South African contemporary performer, Jay Pather, must have prepared her for this project. But the artistes were different, she notes. Deboo’s thirst for knowledge stands out. From learning with Martha Graham and working with Alison Becker Chase of Pilobolus Dance Theatre to incorporating the Kabuki form from Japan, it was a journey of evolution. “He would pick what suited his body, and discard the rest,” Katrak says. Katrak is also sensitive in her approach of the subject of Deboo’s struggle with his identity as an individual from the Parsi community exploring dance, a gay man in India in the early 1970s, and as a performer exploring a new language. This, the author observes, was the lonely part of the journey for Astad Deboo. “He struggled to evolve his own style over the years. In the early works, he would choose the leotards and unitards and it was not always well-received on the Indian stage. He was recognised late in life; and the struggle was constant,” she informs us. Astad shares a lighthearted moment with sisters Kamal (centre) and Gulshan (right). Pics Courtesy/Deboo Family Underneath it all, lies the story of a man and his need to communicate. “When speaking about his most difficult performances, Astad would tell me that he wanted the audience to feel the pain, to empathise with what he was going through in those moments. His goal was always to communicate and empathise while giving the audience a thrill. Even with his famous chakkars, you were at the edge of your seat — out of concern, love and wonder,” Katrak concludes. We can hardly disagree. ON December 10; 5.30 pm AT Kitab Khana, ground floor, Somaiya Bhavan, Fort.FREE Also Read: When I hear Indian music, I automatically start moving: Vietnam dancer MT Pop
09 December,2024 08:59 AM IST | Mumbai | Shriram IyengarGerman DJ Boris Brejcha is returning to India this weekend after almost a year but his excitement to play his latest mix here is refreshing as always. Performing as a part of his Sunburn Arena tour today and tomorrow in Delhi-NCR and Mumbai, respectively, he promises an unforgettable night because he believes Mumbaikars can start a party anywhere. It will only get better because he sets the vibe not only with his music but also with his Venetian-inspired joker mask that is a nod to Brazilian carnivals. Known for his techno and house music sounds, the music producer has also carved a niche with his ‘high-tech minimal’ style of music that has found many fans not only around the world but also in India. The music, Boris says, was a way of expressing himself, after being teased in school for the scars he received after being severely injured during the Ramstein air show disaster in 1988. Ever since he started releasing music in 2005, almost 12 years after he started making music, he has made up for lost time with over 10 albums, with the one in 2024 being ‘Level One’, that he must be itching to play for the Indian audience. How does it feel to perform in India and what can fans expect at your performance in Mumbai? It’s always a great feeling to perform in India. India has such an incredible energy. The fans here are so passionate about music, and I’ve always felt a special connection when performing in the country. I’ve been to India a few times in the past, but it's always exciting to return, especially because the scene is growing so much here. Fans can expect an energetic and intense performance, just like in all my shows – I bring my signature 'high-tech minimal' style, with deep, atmospheric sounds mixed with some hard-hitting rhythms that really connect with the crowd. It's going to be an unforgettable night. I was in India about one year ago and every time I return, it feels like the scene gets more vibrant, and the crowd is always so welcoming. Ever since you started releasing your music in 2006, how have you seen techno and house music and evolve around the world?It’s been amazing to witness the evolution of techno, house, and the broader electronic music scene over the years. When I first started producing and releasing music in 2006, the scene was already vibrant, but it was a bit more underground. Over time, I’ve seen these genres grow exponentially and become more mainstream. I think the internet and streaming platforms have played a huge role in this, giving artists and fans more access to new music and allowing the scene to become more global than ever before. Techno, especially, has evolved in many directions. In the beginning, it was all about the raw, minimalist sounds – which I still love, and which is what I focus on in my music. But over the years, we’ve seen a rise in different subgenres, from more melodic and deep techno to darker, industrial styles. The lines between genres have blurred, and now we have things like "tech-house," "minimal-techno," and "progressive techno," which all have their own dedicated following. In the process, how have you seen your music evolve as a DJ and music producer?As a DJ and music producer, I’ve definitely seen my music evolve over the years, and it’s been an exciting journey. When I first started, my focus was primarily on creating raw, minimalistic techno – that was the sound I was drawn to and what I felt connected with. Over time, though, I realized that I wanted to experiment more with different layers, melodies, and rhythms, while still staying true to my roots in minimal and techno. This led me to create my own sound, which I now call 'High-Tech Minimal’. I think my evolution as a producer reflects how I’ve grown as a person and as an artist. With every new track or project, I’m always challenging myself to try new things, whether it's adding more atmospheric elements, experimenting with different tempos, or blending in melodic or progressive elements that might be outside the traditional minimal box. I enjoy exploring new sounds while maintaining the energy and intensity that defines my style. While you started making music at 12 after being teased by classmates, why did it take you another 12 years to release your music into the world?It’s an interesting journey, and looking back, I can see how much has changed both in my personal life and in the music scene over those years. When I started making music at 12, it was purely out of passion. At that age, I didn’t really have a clear sense of what I wanted to do with it. I was experimenting with sounds, trying to figure out what worked, and playing around with the software and equipment I could get my hands on. Music was a way for me to express myself, especially when I was being teased in school. But at that age, it wasn’t about releasing music or performing. It was more about the joy of creating. By the time I was 24, I had enough experience and had developed a sound that I felt was ready to be shared. I’d also had time to build the confidence to put myself out there. That was when I released my first tracks in 2006, and it was a pivotal moment. The response to my music was much more positive than I had expected, and that really encouraged me to keep going. It was a combination of growing as a producer, gaining more experience, and finding a way to navigate the music industry that finally made me feel ready to take that step. You will come to India yet again to perform. Do you have a favourite city here and does Mumbai feature in them?India is always a special place for me, and every city I’ve visited has its own unique vibe. It’s hard to pick just one favourite, because each place has its own energy and character. I love how diverse the Mumbai is, and how open the people are to different styles of music. Whether it’s a big festival or an intimate club gig, the city always brings a lot of energy and excitement. The city is full of life, and the people here know how to party, which makes it a fantastic place to perform. Have you been inspired by any Indian sounds and do you plan on experimenting with them in your music?One of the most fascinating things about Indian music is its intricate rhythms and scales. The use of tabla, sitar, and other traditional instruments creates such a distinct texture that you don’t often hear in Western electronic music. As for the future, yes, I definitely plan on experimenting more with these influences. I’ve already experimented a bit with incorporating Indian percussion or melodic structures into some of my tracks, but I think there’s still a lot more to explore. Beyond your music, what are you looking forward to in terms of the food and culture in India and Mumbai? What is Boris Brejcha doing when he is not making music?To be honest, I'm not a culture freak. I rarely go out. Mainly because there's usually not that much time between gigs. But I love Indian food. We always enjoy eating it extensively. In my privacy… well, I try to find balance in my life. Music is my passion, but I do enjoy some downtime away from the studio and the stage. I love traveling and experiencing new cultures – that’s one of the best things about being a DJ, getting to explore the world. Besides that, I’m a big fan of technology and gadgets. I like to stay up to date with new tech, especially when it comes to music production tools and software. What are you currently working on and what can fans expect in the near future? Yes, I’m really excited about the release of my latest album, and the response has been amazing so far. Right now, I’m still in the creative flow. After finishing the album, I’ve been taking time to reflect on what’s worked, what fans are loving, and where I want to take my sound next. The new album really pushed me to experiment more with melodies and structure, while still keeping that strong foundation of minimal techno and high-energy beats. But as with every album, it’s also a stepping stone to what comes next. I think the future of techno is moving towards deeper, more emotional journeys, so I’m exploring that direction. On December 24, I will also publish my annual Christmas mix. There's a lot to come next year and you can be very excited about that. ON December 8; 7 pm onwardsAT NESCO Hall 4, Goregaon.LOG ON TO in.bookmyshow.com Also Read: Bryan Adams India tour 2024: 'My favourite memory of India is playing in Mumbai in 1993 in a packed cricket ground'
07 December,2024 02:46 PM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoADVERTISEMENT
