Cover Story

As Fresh as a Tender Coconut – ‘Karikku’

Published

5 years ago

September 30, 2019

“I wanted to bring out a platform in Kerala where content can be organised properly for viewers. That was the first step”

The digital media has taken Kerala by storm, albeit a tad late. Within the last couple of years, we have seen a flood of short films, YouTube channels, and web series play out by the dozen. However, none has been as successful as Karikku.

Even the most technically ignorant person in Kerala would have heard the name Karikku at least once within this last year. That’s how much the team behind the channel has risen in popularity. Their statistics in social media presence is testament to their fame – more than 2 million subscribers in less than a year since inception, Facebook page with 685K likes, and Instagram handle with around 950K followers. An impressive feat indeed!

Karikku started off in YouTube with short informative, news worthy videos that were sometimes taken in a light-hearted manner. They moved on to making and uploading their own videos, kickstarting with a short humorous production that rode on the World Cup fever last year. This foray was a hit with the Kerala youth and the demand to view these characters again prompted the team to come out with their comedy web series – Thera Paara – which has catapulted the characters the channel to fame on par with the film celebrities of Kerala.

But all this and more has been possible due to the diligence of one man off-screen – Nikhil Prasad.

Nikhil is the founder and creative head of Karikku, who sparked the flame and blew it into a wildfire, attracting fans at a rapid pace. Everything from the channel logo to the content creation, direction, camera and editing, Nikhil’s creative omnipotence is spread all over the YouTube Channel. Pratheesh Ramanathan, Nikhil’s friend is helping him in the office activities.

FWD delves a little deeper into Karikku, its founder, and the unheard nitty-gritties off camera.

The Captain of the Ship

“We are happy to have made a mark within the year. This was something we had hoped to achieve in 3-4 years, because, we had no idea we would be this popular within one year,” says Nikhil with a radiant smile, basking in the recognition the team has achieved in a span of nine months.

The digital tech in Kerala is moving through a golden period, however, the state hasn’t seen as much of worthy content online as other regional digital channels in India. Karikku has managed to grasp that drought and bring in a shower of recognition with hard work and good content.

How did it all start?

It wasn’t just a band of friends coming together to shoot some videos. Here, Karikku is the brainchild of Nikhil, and the actors are all his staff. For Nikhil, his 12 years of experience in media helped to mould a constructive team that would deliver something fresh and entertaining.

“Through my decade long stay in the media industry, I have seen the evolution of digital media,” explains Nikhil. “I used to work in North India where people use digital media quite a lot. And that business model is highly successful there. So, I was confident that success can be achieved in Kerala too.”

According to him, a major issue with the digital media in Kerala is that it wasn’t organised enough to cater to the needs of the audience.

“I wanted to bring out a platform in Kerala where content can be organised properly for viewers. That was the first step,” he answers when asked why he opted for a Malayalam channel.

Even though he was an experienced media professional for more than a decade, Nikhil says he is first and foremost a technical guy. That technical expertise has applications everywhere, especially content creation. When it comes to digital media, the expenses of creating content were far less than when it comes to television.

For online platforms, content is king as there is no huge expenses or large canvases for production. It was the knowledge of a clear content-driven formula that enabled Nikhil to understand how big it can grow successfully.

Karikku – The Name, Logo, & Dream

In Malayalam, tender coconut is called as Karikku. And what comes to mind when one thinks of a coconut? Freshness. And that was exactly what Nikhil was aiming for.

“I wanted a Malayali element in the name. Giving it a random English name or likewise won’t resonate with the viewers,” He says. “Before the name, we had created a tagline first.”

Feel The Freshness Inside.

That is Karikku’s tagline, which when thought of with eyes closed, conjures up a wave of fresh breeze.

“We were adamant in wanting that freshness to reflect in our content too,” smiles Nikhil.

When the logo was designed at the start, it was expressly angled towards giving off a clean vibe with a striking yellow colour.That stubbornness, Nikhil explained, existed since the creation of logo and its colour palette to how each episode was created.

Unchartered Territory, The Struggles & Challenges

Every new venture faces its share of struggles and challenges, and when in a family-oriented society like Kerala’s, the biggest challenge would sometimes be one’s own family. But for Nikhil, the way was quite clear.

“I believe if you have a solid roadmap for at least 4 years, and you are clear on what you need to do with proper planning, then the family will back you up,” he says.

When asked what his biggest challenge with Karikku was, Nikhil points towards his actors.

“It was finding them. The biggest struggle I felt when I started on this journey was finding the resources needed to make it all happen.”

It was quite an onerous job in trying to find the proper actors with respect to the content they had at hand. Majority of the Kerala youngsters are avid cine goers or short film enthusiasts. But Karikku was of a different breed, and looked for actors who would be conducive to that class of storytelling.

“We auditioned scores of kids for the right kind of characters. We have even cast those who came looking for jobs other than acting!” Nikhil remarks. “More than just being an actor, it is those who behave who have been cast in Karikku.”

Ask Nikhil whether he hasn’t considered presenting himself in front of the camera, and he chuckles.

“I have always been focused more on content creation, even during college days,” he reminisces. “I was more involved with editing and shooting, and even today I did rather be behind the camera than front of it.”

Nikhil hopes to find bigger talents in the future who would add to the natural acting talents that Karikku already houses.

Revenue

Digital media is a worldwide success when compared to the print media or television. Considering advertisements and commercials, presenting one online is far more lucrative for the company than running the ad on paper or television.

This is mainly due to the longevity of the ad placed. Once shown online, that advertisement will stay for a lifetime. In that regard, with respect to a content creator or an advertiser, investing in digital media always has a higher benefit.

Nikhil points out that the brands and companies in Kerala are vying digital media as growing business ground and aren’t hesitant in spending for it. As he puts it, its easier for brands to place their ads online based on their target group, whatever the demographic may be.

This is what Nikhil has shrewdly utilised for their channel. Karikku thrives majorly on the branding of companies which provides them their main source of income.

“In-video branding is the backbone of Karikku,” states Nikhil.

Contrary to what is normally done in YouTube videos and other platforms, Nikhil has cleverly integrated branding into his content. Be it about Kitex or Darsana Academy, the names and products roll out during the normal course of the story without the noticeable jerk of an advertisement.

Awards Galore

Kerala’s media industry doesn’t recognise digital platforms actively as a mainstream field. That aspect is about change with the advent of so many digital platforms racing forward with quality content.

Even in such a scenario, Karikku has managed to bag commendable recognition. Mazhavil Manorama awarded them with the Best Entertainer of the Year in Digital Media. Nikhil was also invited by Mathrubhumi to conduct a workshop as the founder of the fastest growing YouTube Channel.

The team is hopeful of gaining more honours as they grow.

The Way Forward

There’s a Thera Paara season 2 in the offing, slated for release next year. But Nikhil doesn’t want Karikku to be contained within the boundaries of a web series.

“We are looking to expand in the digital world with various verticals. We have already started moving forward with a branch dedicated to movies and music.”

What about a film?

Karikku has already announced Therapara movie project. It will be first-of-its-kind of venture for the team as well as for the audience. “Our fans have already started discussing about this in social media.” Nikhil’s eyes glints with a prophetic hope.

Cover Story

Starlit Wedding – Diya Krishna

Published

2 months ago

September 18, 2024

Reshma Vivekanandan

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

Cover Story

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

Published

2 months ago

September 16, 2024

Reshma Vivekanandan

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.

Cover Story

Sarees of India : Punjab’s Phulkari

Published

2 months ago

August 27, 2024

Reshma Vivekanandan

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.