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RIGHT UP THEIR ALLEY

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Photos by Jinson Abraham

For Unni Mukundan and Vinay Forrt, life and acting are two sides of a coin; from years of lust for cinema, to finally lighting up the big screen.

Words by Likhitha P Nair

As they moved about at the shooting location, Unni and Vinay were all cheers. When I mentioned the theme of this interview, they broke into a smile. ‘Nostalgia’ is a paradoxical term – one that is to each, his own. After long discussions about pasts and presents, I realised that for Vinay, it is the streets of Fort Kochi that injected art into his blood, while Unni carved his out of being Malayali away from Kerala. Movies have, forever been living, breathing memories for every artist. Frames made and diffused closely – scribbled on crumpled sheets that reek of coffee, dampened by sleepless nights – thought, rethought and reflected. They are, for the lack of better words, dreams packed in reels that travel time and space.

fwd-life-right-up-their-alley-article-2 On Vinay: Sunset Yellow Linen Shirt, Trousers andCoral Pink Check Linen Blazer from KIM India

“Avarude Ravukal” is a story of three men who end up in a new city. Despite being burdened by difficulties in life, they meet a man who shows them the silver lining, thus reinforcing faith in destiny – a sanguine manifestation of Murphy’s law. Vinay Forrt and Unni Mukundan have brought to life two lead roles in the movie, and they take time out to tell us about their work and worship.

Back in the Days

Unni was born and raised in Gujarat in a very Malayali home. Yet he didn’t enjoy coming to Kerala much as a child. “My friends were all back in Gujarat. And my Malayalam was really bad. So I used to pray for vacations to be short!” All through, he had dreamed of being a director, but fate, and his dashing looks, had other plans for him! While Unni only started admiring his ties with his hometown Thrissur during his late teens, Vinay was born into Kochi’s canvas. This Fort Kochi boy has only loved acting his entire life. “I was in the fourth standard when I decided I am going to be an actor. I have never looked back since then.”

fwd-life-right-up-their-alley-article-1 On Unni: Fern Green Linen Shirt, Carolina Blue Linen Vest, and Limestone Side Pleated Pants from Aham, Belfair Leather Boots from Metro

Nevertheless, there are bits of home that always stays with a man. The epilogue left by flavours and fragrances that he holds close. “My mom used to feed me till I was 21 years old. I don’t think that is embarrassing. I consider it a privilege instead. I am grateful for those subtle blessings.” “Childhood is all about home for me. I remember my mother bringing me food, and being taught school lessons by her..” in a moment of silence that followed, Vinay found his nostalgia too. To him, culmination of life isn’t happiness, but peace. “Live and let live is the most compassionate way to exist. My years growing up has conditioned me to never hurt another person,” he says. Unni remembers the Malayali food that never missed a turn on the dining table in Gujarat. His father supported Unni’s love for the movie Industry. “It is a responsibility. Even now when I choose to do a movie, I wonder if my parents would enjoy it,” he says.

Where the Heart is

“I was the only one in my batch at the Film & Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune to return home to Fort Kochi. The roar of a big city was exciting, but my dreams always had the backdrop of my hometown,” says Vinay, who has never regretted the choice he made.

fwd-life-right-up-their-alley-article-3 On Vinay: Ceramic Blue Linen Trousers,Cobalt Green Check Linen Blazer and Lamp White Linen Shirt from KIM India Monkstrap Oxford from Metro

Even as he was being raised in a different culture, Unni’s sentimentality remained solid too. “I think our Malayali group used to celebrate Onam better than most Keralites here in Kerala. We had the grand fare sadya, dressed up in finery, revelled in music and dance. I think being away from home gets you more attached to it.”

Off the Celluloid

Italian film maker Fellini called a pearl the oyster’s autobiography. For an actor, his pearl is the character he immortalises. But “Avarude Ravukal” seems to have established an intimacy with the lives of these young artists, on how life opened doors for them when they needed it most. Some would call it a stroke of fate, but for Unni, his cursive lessons took him to the crossroad. “I remember sending out letters to many big names in Indian industry expressing my interest in movies. Lohitadas Sir replied because he liked my handwriting. That brought me hope. My career and success as an actor pivoted on that reply.”

fwd-life-right-up-their-alley-article-4 On Unni: Spring Green Linen Shirt, Ceramic Blue Linen Trousers and Brick Print Vest from KIM India Leather Tassel Loafer from Metro

Fate reached out to Vinay when he was struggling through college. Toiling away during midnight shifts at a call centre, he attended college through the day, and did theatre rehearsals during evenings. While hope was the only bright light at the end of the tunnel, he met Chandramohan Nair, head of acting department at FTII at an acting workshop in Kochi. “That acquaintance was followed by my decision to join the institute, and it ended up changing my life.” It is rarely that you can heartily converse with people you are only meant to interrogate and interview. This was the charm about Vinay and Unni. They are acutely comfortable with the people they really are – simple and convivial. The fact that they found time to share a laugh with our photographers while striking a pose, or pour their hearts out about their life’s nuances makes them good people, and soulful artists.As they left the shooting location, a myriad of fans surrounded them. Most of them wanting a ‘selfie’ with the actors, or wanting to have a few words. Patiently, the duo smiled for every frame, shook hands with every man and boy, and left with one last suave smile.

Models: Unni Mukundan & Vinay Forrt
Photographer: Jinson Abraham
Styling: Lakshmi Babu
Makeup & Hair Styling: Blessy Mary Chacko
Costumes: Aham Designer Boutique, KIM India
Retouch: Jemini Ghosh
Location Courtesy: DTALE Decor, Kakkanad
Production: FWD Media
Special Thanks: Metro, LuLu Mall Kochi

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Starlit Wedding – Diya Krishna

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Actor Krishna Kumar’s daughter, Diya Krishna, a popular social media influencer, recently married Ashwin Ganesan, a software engineer, after a long-term relationship. The couple celebrated their special day with a beautiful ceremony at a luxurious hotel in Thiruvananthapuram. Diya’s family, including her siblings Ahaana, Ishani, and Hansika, along with her parents Sindhu Krishna and Krishna Kumar, looked radiant in coordinated light pink ensembles. The wedding was an intimate gathering, attended by close family and friends. Here are all the details of their magical day.

Haldi

For the Haldi ceremony, Diya and Ashwin were spotted in coordinated white outfits by Santini. The look was beautifully elevated with a pop of color from Diya’s pink dupatta and stunning floral jewellery by Florita Florals, adding a fresh, vibrant touch to the celebration.

Diya’s Outfit : Santinni

Aswin’s Outfit : Santinni

MakeUp : Amala Brahmanandan

Jewellery : Florita Floral 

Event Planner : Grand Oyster

Photography : Abhijith SK

Location : Taj Green Cove Resort & Spa

Mehendi

Diya looked effortlessly chic in a vibrant multi-colored skirt set by Mahek Designs for the Mehendi celebration. Ashwin complemented her perfectly with a multi-hued jacket by Santini, completing their joyful and lively Mehendi look.

Diya’s Outfit : MAHEK DESIGNS

Aswin’s Outfit : Santinni

Mehandi : MISHMA KAMAL 

Event Planner : Grand Oyster

Photography : Abhijith SK

Sangeeth 

Diya and Ashwin absolutely rocked their Sangeet in stunning black outfits by Santini, exuding elegance and style as they celebrated the night in perfect sync!

Diya’s Outfit : Santinni

Aswin’s Outfit : Santinni

Jewellery : Atelier by Regal Jewellers

MakeUp : Laxmi Venugopal

Event Planner : Grand Oyster, Decor Lab Events

DJ : TONIQ SQUAD

Photography : Abhijith SK

Wedding 

For the wedding, Diya truly dazzled in a polished pastel-themed saree designed by the talented M Loft by Joel. Styled in a manner reminiscent of Bollywood star Alia Bhatt’s iconic fashion sense, the saree was a vision of beauty, adorned with elegant detailing, intricate embroidery, and flowing glamour, imparting a regal charm to her bridal look.

Diya’s Outfit : M LOFT

Aswin’s Outfit : M LOFT

Jewellery : Atelier by Regal Jewellers, Regal Jewellers

MakeUp : Laxmi Venugopal

Draping : Aamee Hafsa Nazar

Event Planner : Grand Oyster, Decor Lab Events

Garlands : Black Gold Flowers

Photography : Abhijith SK

Wedding Second Look

For her second wedding look, Diya embraced a simple yet elegant white Kerala traditional set mundu, perfectly complemented by traditional jewelry from Bhima. Ashwin matched the aesthetic, dressed in a silk shirt and mundu by M Loft, creating a timeless and graceful duo.

Aswin’s Outfit : M LOFT

Jewellery : Bhima

MakeUp : Laxmi Venugopal

Draping : Aamee Hafsa Nazar

Event Planner : Grand Oyster, Decor Lab Events

Photography : Abhijith SK

Reception

At the Delhi reception, Diya stunned in a maroon saree, perfectly capturing the elegance of a newlywed. The North Indian-style chooda added a beautiful touch to her look. Ashwin complemented her effortlessly, looking sharp in a sleek black suit by Santinni.

Diya’s Outfit : Shazara Design Studio

Aswin’s Outfit : Santinni

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Onam Elegance: Decoding the Traditional and Modern Looks of M-Town Celebs

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Onam, the grand harvest festival of Kerala, is a celebration of tradition, culture, and elegance. Each year, Malayalam movie celebrities embrace the essence of the festival by donning a mix of timeless traditional outfits and contemporary styles that reflect their unique flair. From graceful sarees to classic set mundus, the stars bring out the best of Kerala’s sartorial heritage. In this lookbook, we decode the standout fashion moments from your favorite M-Town celebs, showcasing how they beautifully combine tradition with modern elegance to make a statement this Onam season.

Anushree

Anushree looked stunning in a double-colored set mundu from Naithu by Sruthi Prasanth, beautifully accessorized with exquisite jewels from Malabar Gold and Diamonds. Her look was perfectly complemented by flawless makeup by Sajith & Sujith.

Mahima Nambiar

Mahima Nambiar looks stunning in T & M Signature’s Onam collection, “Thumbayum Thulasiyum.” Her festive look is perfectly complemented by exquisite jewelry from MOD Signature. Styled by Jobina Vincent, the ensemble is further enhanced with flawless makeup and hair by Pinky Visal, creating a captivating Onam look.

Ahaana Krishna

Ahaana Krishna exudes her signature charm with a simple yet effortlessly stylish look for this Onam in Black Set Mundu. Staying true to her unique “Ahaana style,” her minimalistic makeup and elegant hair were beautifully crafted by Amala Brahmanandan, perfectly complementing her festive vibe.

The Sukumaran Family

The Sukumaran family radiates elegance in their traditional Onam attire. Indrajith and Prithviraj opted for timeless simplicity, donning classic white shirts paired with mundus, while Mallika Sukumaran exudes a proud motherly grace in a beautiful, classic Kerala saree, perfectly capturing the spirit of the festival.

Shilpa Bala

Shilpa Bala looks stunning and stylish in a white and orange traditional salwar by Kalaakari, exuding festive charm. The look, styled by Rashmi Muraleedharan, is perfectly complemented by elegant jewelry from Pure Allure. Her radiant makeup and hair, done by Sanaah, complete this beautiful Onam ensemble.

Anikha Surenderan

Draped in the stunning ‘Nila’ saree by Anusha Reji, Anikha Surendran mesmerizes with her grace and style. Styled to perfection by Mehaka Kalarikkal, her look is elevated by exquisite jewelry from Goldencup Bridal Rental Jewellery. With flawless makeup and hair by Ashif Marakkar. Anikha’s Onam look is truly captivating.

Nikhila Vimal

Like a muse straight from Raja Ravi Varma’s timeless canvas, Nikhila Vimal exudes ethereal charm in a stunning Pen Kalamkari Kanchipuram saree by The Saffron House. Styled by Smiji, her look is further elevated by flawless makeup and hair by Femy Antony

Dulquer Salman

Dulquer Salmaan looks ravishing in a classic white kurta set, effortlessly blending tradition with chic style. His Onam look radiates simplicity and elegance, making a timeless fashion statement for the festive season.

Pearly Maany

Pearly Maany looks stunning in a saree from T & M Signature’s Onam collection, “Thumbayum Thulasiyum.” Her elegant look is perfectly complemented by exquisite jewelry from MOD Signature Jewellery, with flawless makeup and hair by Touch by SiRe. The saree draping, beautifully done by Krishnapriya P V, completes Pearly’s enchanting festive ensemble. 

Arya Babu

Arya graces this Onam in a pure Kerala handloom set saree by Kanchivaram.in, embodying the true essence of tradition and festivity. Styled by Sabari Nath, her look is beautifully complemented by elegant jewelry from Gemforher, with flawless makeup and hair crafted by Manju Michael’s Salon. Arya’s ensemble is a perfect reflection of timeless Onam elegance.

Navya Nair

Navya stuns in her Onam look, wearing a beautiful outfit by Jugalbandhi. Her flawless makeup and hair, crafted by Sijan Joseph, enhance the festive charm. Adorned with exquisite jewelry from R. Giri Pai Jewellery, the look is captured to perfection by Black Lenzio, making Navya a vision of elegance this Onam.

Priya Prakash Varrier

Priya Prakash Varrier looks gorgeous and modern in a stunning saree by Mloft. Styled by Asaniya Nazrin, her look is flawlessly complemented by makeup and hair crafted by Unni, making her stand out with a perfect blend of traditional elegance and contemporary chic.

Aparna Balamurali 

Aparna Balamurali looks traditionally beautiful in a Kerala saree by R O U K A by Sreejith Jeevan. Styled by Rashmi Muraleedharan, her look is complemented with flawless makeup and hair by Sruthi Sai. The ensemble is completed with exquisite jewelry from Nakshathra Gold and Diamonds, making Aparna’s Onam look timeless and elegant.

Amala Paul & Family

Amala Paul’s family Onam picture is an absolute dream, with the family dressed in stunning red and white outfits. Amala shines in an elegant ensemble by Made by Milan, while Jagat looks dapper in his outfit from House of Messcal. Styled by Sapna Fathima Kajha, the look is further enhanced by flawless makeup and hair by Sajith & Sujith, and exquisite jewelry from Cressida Signature Jewels. Together, they capture the perfect festive spirit in this beautiful Onam portrait.

Rajisha Vijayan

Rajisha looks stunning in a leaf-printed saree by ALDA Designer, effortlessly blending tradition with a modern twist. Styled by Amritha Lakshmi, her look is perfectly complemented by makeup and hair by Laxmi Venugopal. The ensemble is enhanced with elegant jewelry from TT Devassy Jewellery, and the draping, beautifully done by Exotic Makeover’s Elizabeth Shinitha, completes this mesmerizing Onam look.

Miya

Miya embraces the spirit of Onam in a pure Kerala handloom Kasavu saree by Kanchivaram.in, radiating traditional elegance. Styled by Sabari Nath, her look is beautifully complemented by makeup and hair by Sijan Joseph. The ensemble is further enhanced with exquisite jewelry from Mayoora Jewelry Designs, and the saree draping, skillfully done by Krishnapriya P V, completes this timeless Onam look.

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Sarees of India : Punjab’s Phulkari

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 The traditional Punjabi art form ‘Phulkari,’ derived from the terms ‘phul’ and ‘kari,’ meaning flower and effort, is thought to have begun in Punjab in the 15th century by Punjabi women. Bright and bright textile art uses needlework and the most basic designs to create a fascinating, appealing, and ornamented result. Phulkari work is reported to be mentioned in Heer Ranjha’s Waris Shah love romance. References to this needlework tradition can also be found in the Vedic period. Women’s phulkari chadar, dupattas, sarees and other veil garments were traditionally exchanged as bridal gifts or heirlooms.

The inspiration for the Phulkari motifs would originate from their imaginations based on their surroundings, nature, animals, birds, gardens, or even a mother-daughter conversation. Marigolds, jasmine, peacock, and mustard flowers were frequently used as a means of expressing their feelings, inventiveness, and expressiveness. 

 

Because Phulkari is made out of symmetrical designs, the craftsmen and women must count the amount of stitches on each side before proceeding, making Phulkari a time-consuming method. However, as time passed, people moved on to new techniques, and in addition to coarse khaddar fabrics, silk, georgette, chiffon, and normal cotton began to be used. Darning stitch- the most significant stitch- was used to border the khaddar in the past. Other stitches like herringbone, buttonhole, and running stitch were also utilized. These stitches were employed to make a unique motif or as a border. 

The use of colors is extremely important in Phulkari art. Traditionally, just four hues were utilized, each with its unique meaning. For example, white is appropriate for elderly women and widows, red is appropriate for young girls and brides-to-be, and blue, black, and dark tones are appropriate for everyday use. Red was the most commonly used color to express enthusiasm, followed by orange for vitality and green for fertility. 

In India, there is not just one sort of Phulkari, but numerous. What distinguishes one Phulkari from another is the darn stitching process, which is done on the reverse or wrong side of the fabric, which makes this handcraft unique. Here are some of the most popular Phulkari designs.

Bagh– A design in which horizontal, vertical, or diagonal stitching cover the entire fabric surface. 

Chhamas – Chhamas fabric has mirrors stitched or woven onto it with yellow, grey, or blue threads.

Neelak– Neelak patterns have a black or red backdrop with bright yellow or red embroidery on top. For a distinct shining texture, the design is combined with metal or copper threads.

Chope– Chope is traditionally done in yellow and red threads and involves embroidering on both sides of the fabric. This embroidery is made out of a series of triangles or a step-ladder pattern.

There used to be 52 different types of Phulkaris, but that number has since been reduced to only a few. The states that use the Phulkari traditional art and needlework the most are Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. 

 

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