Entertainment

LFM Goes Sustainable!

Lakme Fashion Week 2021 was all about hailing new beginnings after the upheavals of last year, with an eye towards sustainability. From a brilliant mix of the green horns and the established, the designers lit up the event with their creations that often swung between opulent and eclectic. The event, backed by Lakme India in partnership with the Fashion Development Council of India, was a “phygital” gathering of craft, innovation and workability. Designers participated from all around the country via spectacular visual art films and live walks. Juveria Tabassum picks eight of the best designers on show through the five days.

Collection: Bloni

Designer: Akshat Bansal

Label: Bloni

Hashtag USP: Local artisanal techniques on marine plastic waste textiles.

Delhi-based Bloni’s Akshat Bansal’s creations were the perfect celebration of the theme, for the event. The designs were showcased as part of the Emerging Talent Category. Fabrics sourced from marine waste and generated through technology were adorned with the age old tie-and-dye craft. Furthermore, the collection, termed Bloni, was gender neutral, which gave them an added edge. Crochet and knitting made an appearance and the designs left an impact with its tasteful use of neon green and shimmery silvers between blacks, whites and greys on eco-friendly, hybrid textiles. The film deployed futuristic elements and was striking in itself, with models standing knee-deep in waters.

Collection: #SNSafari

Designers: Shantanu and Nikhil

Label: S&N

Hashtag USP: Safari chic that can well become the new-age celebration wear.

The designer duo has become a vintage name in the industry with their new-age celebration wear which is transforming what we wear at festivities. Their Safari collection was driven by the idea of “celebration on the move,” paying a tribute to the ceaseless lives of today’s youth. The designs were a smooth mix of casual chic and traditional cuts, satisfying the fashion stipulations of the youth. The collection experimented with cuts and silhouettes in kurtis and jackets for women and shirts and sherwanis for men. Also on the roster were some classic tees and sneakers which lifted some rather conventional garments to a ubiquitous contemporary appeal. The designers said the idea behind the collection was “delineating the belief of celebrating oneself, the journey and the destination.”

Collection: Crafts in the Forefront

Designer: Rahul Dasgupta

Label: Label Rahul Dasgupta

Hashtag USP: Shibori on sherwanis could well become a staple

Presenting as part of the GenNext show by INIFD, young designer Rahul Dasgupta, who launched his label in August 2020, sparkled with his stylish collection for men at the Lakme Fashion Week. Sherwanis, kurtas and jackets infused in Shibori and occasionally splashed with bundi made for a cool collection which might well find a place in many a man’s wardrobe this festive season. Created with organza and cotton, the garments dabbled in blues and grays and delivered a final stunner in red. The mix of Shibori and selvedge of fabric was cut and dyed, then detangled and later stitched together to create a great masculine look. Another stunner was the cotton dori dyed in Shibori, for the jacket that was lined elegantly with Shibori and worn with a silk organza bagalbandi style kurta.

– Collection: Spring/Summer ‘21 – Ritu Kumar x TRESemme:

Designer: Ritu Kumar

Label: The Ritu Kumar Label

Hashtag USP: Soya fabric sarees that embrace the classic and the contemporary

Designer Ritu Kumar was supported by haircare brand TRESemme in this edition of the Lakme Fashion Week. Boho and minimalism went hand in hand with his collection as he blended floral prints and patchwork with a spread of yarn dyes, laces and geometric designs. The collection embraced both the classic and the contemporary feminine as it swung between suits and drapes and dresses. The soya fabric saris created a stir when they appeared in the most unconventional and unique styles with a colourful fantasy of colour and prints. Ritu Kumar kept the hemline at the midi level to allow the fluid silhouettes to swirl around the models. The scarf was the prime accessory in prints, plain or tasselled and appeared around the neck or the waist in a variety of styles. Participating via a film, the collection used natural fibres and incorporated a plethora of contemporary everyday styles donned by the modern woman.

– Collection: Look Book of Conscious Leather Free Creations by PETA India

Hashtag USP: Cruelty-free fashion that ticks all the boxes

Day 2 was Sustainable Fashion Day and the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India presented a Look Book of conscious leather-free creations that were curated from numerous top brands. PETA ambassadors Milind Soman and Ankita Konwar donned the creations which ranged from office wear to date night looks. The couple looked gorgeous in the staggering film which was directed by Ravi Shanker and shot at Sofitel Mumbai BKC. Ankita’s red, halter, trapeze-style mini dress was especially striking. The suits, trousers, jackets, and a gamut of dresses were Vegan—all created without fur, leather, wool, exotic skins, cashmere, mohair or silk. Coconut leather was used as an alternative option to conventional leather, and Brands featured included Proyog, Daisy Days, Urvashi Kaur, Outhouse, Papa Don’t Preach by Shubhika, Countrymade and many more.

– Collection: Purn Vritt

Designers: Chandra Prakash Jha and Georg

Label: Cocccon

Hashtag USP: Peace organic silks that employ zero waste techniques and conscious Sericulture

German-based designers Chandra Prakash Jha and Georg came together in 2012 to form a luxury fashion label that utilises peace organic silk. The Purn Vritt collection, which marked their first outing on Indian shores, featured fabrics created with strict organic methods employing zero waste techniques. The designs on show were futuristic and made from biodegradable materials which deployed the principle of “Ahimsa” or peace silk where the silkworm is allowed to complete its life cycle. For the presentation, the collection resembled the indigenous performing art of Jharkhand, which spoke about conflict between circular (Jeevan Chakra) and linear (Jeevan Rekha) lifestyle. Voluminous sleeves and shoulders added a spectacular oomph to the cuts. The colours were vibrant and the drapes ranged from summer dresses, sarees to draped lungis, embellished with geometric block prints on bright hues. The collection blended in well with the theme of the event, Mismatched, and created quite an impact with its geometric patterns and summer block prints on these environmentally-conscious garments. The interesting silhouettes appeared comfortable. It says quite something about the times that we live in that “luxury peace silk” not only sounds inviting, but also looks pretty damn gorgeous.

Collection: Marie Claire in Collaboration with Gauri and Nainika : Fall 2021

Designers: Gauri and Nainika

Label: Bata India

Hashtag USP: Florals never looked more elegant

Bata India managed to make a mark at the Lakme Fashion Week with Marie Claire, a women-centric fashion footwear brand that falls under their umbrella. In collaboration with designer duo Gauri & Nainika. The designs play with floral prints inspired by greys, greens and blues—the shades of the earth. Frock dresses, gowns in chiffon set alight by trendy necklines gave a serene illusion to the collection. The leg-of-mutton, long-sleeved, ruffled, collared dress was captivating in its voluminous troughs and crests which were set off beautifully by the Marie Claire kitten heels. The designers stuck to organza and chiffon which maintained the refreshing, floaty, flowery feel of the film. A black, printed addition with a high neckline was a great contrast against the pretty pastels of the collection.

Collection: Art Nouveau

Designer: Varun Chakillam

Label: 6Degree

Hashtag USP: Reimagined traditional festive wear Part of an ensemble by online multi designer store 6Degree, Varun Chakillam managed to hold his own and stun with his reimagined use of classic festive-wear colours and styles. The “Art Nouveau” line for Spring/Summer 2021 aimed at the sensuous, mysterious woman. Sequins and intricate embroidery came splattered on maxi skirts, pre-stitched sarees and trendy kurtis. The colour card featured dainty pinks, greens, mustards and teal set off by hand embroidered garments of voluminous skirts, gowns and other drapes. The collection, stimulated by 18th century art brought finesse and elegance to traditional Indian festive wear. An embroidered kurti over draped lungi and the ruffled dupatta teamed with corset style choli and lehenga brought innovation and elegance to an age-old combination. Showstopper Pooja Hegde looked scintillating in a white embellished lehenga. Her stylishly cut choli set off the look brilliantly.

March 31, 2021

#fashion, #lakmefashionweek, #trendingnow

Yami Gautam on Haq: Courage, Controversy, and the Power of a Woman’s Voice

Yami Gautam’s latest film Haq has struck a powerful chord with audiences for its bold storytelling and emotional honesty. In a candid conversation with Lipika Varma, Yami reflects on what drew her to the film, her collaboration with Emraan Hashmi, the responsibility of portraying a character inspired by real struggles, and how motherhood and support have shaped her personal and professional life. On working with Emraan Hashmi: “When the film was first offered to me, and I learned I’d be cast opposite Emraan, I couldn’t imagine anyone else in the role,” Yami shares. “I’ve always admired him his grace, dignity, the music, the performances, the aura. He has a legacy that spans generations.” She adds, “When you watch the film, you’ll see the incredible energy he brings to his character. Emraan is a brilliant actor respectful, secure, and inspiring. It was a joy to work with him.” Why She Chose a Hard-Hitting Role in Haq: “I go by instinct and this story needed to be told,” Yami says. “This character reflects courage, truth, and resilience. I haven’t met the real woman it draws inspiration from, but her journey deeply moved me. It captures the true meaning of a woman’s power.” She clarifies that the film is not a biopic but a blend of facts and fiction. “As an artist, I had to understand why this case became so important. I wasn’t representing one woman I was representing many.” On Taking Up Socially Sensitive Subjects: “As actors, we have only one lens the tone of the film,” she explains. “Is it made to create controversy or to start a discussion? There’s a difference. I don’t believe in controversies. I do my work and go home.” She adds, “A film must create discussion or debate. There is no scope for being ‘average’.

Entertainment

Get Ready for a Blockbuster November

The wait is finally over November’s screen calendar is stacked with some of the most anticipated returns in entertainment. Clear your weekends, because your watchlist just got a serious upgrade. Stranger Things Season 5 Where to watch: Netflix The wait is nearly over for fans of Stranger Things, as the fifth and final season of the global phenomenon hits Netflix this November. Titled Stranger Things 5, the season promises an epic conclusion to the beloved sci-fi horror saga, unfolding across three releases: two volumes on November 26 and December 25, 2025, and a grand finale on December 31. Created by the Duffer Brothers and produced alongside Shawn Levy and Dan Cohen, this eight-episode season is expected to deliver the biggest emotional and visual spectacle yet. All your favourite characters return including Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, Sadie Sink, and David Harbour joined by Terminator legend Linda Hamilton and Anne with an E star Amybeth McNulty, now part of the main cast. As Hawkins faces its final showdown with the Upside Down, fans can brace for nostalgia, heartbreak, and the end of an era in pop culture storytelling. Family Man Season 3 Where to watch: Prime Video The Family Man returns with its highly anticipated Season 3 on November 21. Manoj Bajpayee reprises his iconic role as Srikant Tiwari, navigating new dangers and deeper moral dilemmas as he confronts powerful global threats while balancing family life. Created by Raj & DK under D2R Films, the season promises high-stakes action, razor-sharp humour, and emotional depth. Joining the cast are Jaideep Ahlawat as Rukma and Nimrat Kaur as Meera, alongside returning favourites Sharib Hashmi, Priyamani, and Shreya Dhanwanthary. With higher risks and fresh adversaries, Season 3 is set to be the most thrilling chapter yet. From the supernatural thrills of Stranger Things to

Entertainment

Siddhu Jonnalagadda Interview With Hashtag Magazine

Siddhu Jonnalagadda on love, learning, and life beyond labels Siddhu Jonnalagadda: “I want audiences to know me through my work, not my personal life.”“Every role I play has a bit of Siddhu in it,” says Siddhu Jonnalagadda With Telusu Kada currently running in theatres, Siddhu Jonnalagadda steps into new territory as a romantic lead, breaking away from his much-loved Tillu image. The romantic drama shows him as Varun a man caught in the web of emotions, relationships, family ties, and the search for his own identity. Directed by debutant Neeraja Kona and featuring Raashii Khanna and Srinidhi Shetty as the leading ladies, the film marks a refreshing shift for Siddhu. In a candid chat with Priyanka Goud, he opens up about shedding stereotypes, navigating success and failure, and staying deeply rooted in his craft. On receiving mixed responses for his role in Telusu Kada I’m glad that Telusu Kada is doing well. It’s my first time playing a full-fledged romantic hero, and there’s been a lot of talk about my role. Like you said, I did come across a few people calling my character a ‘walking red flag.’ But honestly, I don’t really look at that whole ‘red flag’ part. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, and that’s absolutely fine. For us, it was never about labelling the character we just wanted to portray him truthfully, with all his layers and flaws, and we went with that. On working with a debutant female director I never looked at it as working with a woman filmmaker or compared it to working with a male director. For me, she was simply my director that’s all that mattered. The thought of gender never even crossed my mind. Neeraja has always been very clear, confident, and straightforward about how she wanted things to be

Entertainment

Stars Light Up Diwali with Love

Intro: Diwali is more than lamps and fireworks it’s about rituals, relationships, and creating cherished memories. Celebrities, too, embrace this spirit in their own ways, blending cultural traditions with modern celebrations. From heartfelt pujas to guilt-free feasts, here’s how stars like Adivi Sesh, Neha Shetty, and Avika Gor celebrate Diwali and what it truly means to them. Celebrity Quotes: Adivi Sesh: “I love the festive spirit that flows from Navaratri to Dussehra and then Diwali. At home, we perform Lakshmi Puja, and while I avoid crackers because of our pets, I enjoy watching the colourful sky. No festival is complete without sweets and spreading joy.” Neha Shetty: “Diwali is not just about lighting lamps, it’s about illuminating our hearts with hope, kindness, and courage. For me, parties, festive food, and time with close ones make this celebration special every year.” Avika Gor: “For me, Diwali is about spreading love, kindness, and warmth. I celebrate responsibly, visiting family and friends, exchanging hugs, and sharing sweets. The true spirit of Diwali lies in joy and togetherness.”