Cover Story
ELEGANCE IN LINE

New talent on the block Mannara Chopra is a face Celluloid has fallen in love with. A lover of challenges and Kadai chicken, she celebrates being herself
Her lucent silhouette against the bright sunlight amidst curtains dancing to a subtle breeze would remind you of fairies from a Disney movie. Mannara is sister number three from the celebrated Chopra family to dazzle Bollywood, after her predecessors Priyanka and Parineeti. She is a model, fashion designer and now waiting to unveil her prowess as an actress. If you happen to wonder what made us decide to feature this gorgeous woman from Delhi as our cover model for this Travel and Food special issue, the reason will amuse you. At birth, Mannara was named Barbie Handa. But her cousin suggested ‘Mannara’ as a nickname, inspired by a particular three-course meal special at the Shiv Sagar Restaurant in Mumbai. Mannara’s mother liked it so much that the name became official. Such is the effect food has on some people! Mannara Chopra, on her way to great heights in the world of cineblitz, is a simple woman with the grace of a child. FWD brings you more on her journeys and flavours.
Of Many Expressions
Mannara pursued a BBA degree, before she stepped into the magical world of movies. “Watching Priyanka grow big in the industry has been an inspiration for me,” she said. Mannara moved from Delhi to Mumbai, to begin her career in the modelling industry. She made 13 commercials, and incidentally in three of them, she shared screen space with Priyanka Chopra. This is when she started getting noticed in the South Indian film industry.
Shortly thereafter, she signed her first Telugu movie ‘Prema Geema Jantha Nai’ that released in 2014. “Meeting different people from different places, the lifestyle and characters you meet, all of that is a great experience. I feel it has helped me evolve as a person and as an actor,” she said. Next came her Bollywood debut, Anubhav Sinha’s ‘Zid’, which won her much recognition from the audience and the film fraternity. From a thriller comedy to playing the role of a singer, dancer and choreographer, Mannara loves taking risks and pushing herself beyond limits. Belonging to Bollywood’s star bloodline also comes with a lot of apprehension and responsibilities, but Mannara is too comfortable in her skin to be bothered by all that. “It is definitely a standard to live up to, but there is no comparison. When I did movies, people messaged me on Facebook and gave me feedback which have been individualistic and constructive. People accept me for for what I am and for that I am really glad.”
Priorities
Before moving into acting, Mannara was a model. The transition from advertising to the big screen was not easy, but the actress was too in love with acting to be discomfited. “I find acting more comfortable. You have enough time to fit into a character, and you have the freedom and space to move around within it,” Mannara believes there is no struggle when you have the heart to work hard. “There are always opportunities when you look for it. I chose very different roles because I want the audience to see me as a versatile actress and because I want to evolve as an artist as well,” says Mannara who has already signed a few projects including a new Telugu movie with Puri Jagannath.
What floats her boat
Mannara loves living out of a suitcase. She travels a lot for both work and leisure. Here is a quick Q&A with the starlet.
If you had to pick a place to travel alone, where would that be?
Paris. I have always wanted to visit Paris – one, because it is the fashion capital of the world and two, I have heard the place is really beautiful.
You favourite street-shopping destination in India.
Chandni Chowk and Dilli Haat. I have been going to these places since I was in college.
Your favourite dish – Indian and international.
Well, Indian is definitely my mother’s kadai chicken (laughs). When I am back home after a long shoot, I always tell her to make me some, and trust me that feels just like home! If I had to pick an international dish, Sushi and a glass of red wine would make my day, anyday!
A dish you cannot resist.
More than food, I guess it is my sweet tooth that I find hard to resist.
The first thing you notice about any new place to which you travel.
I guess the landscape. When I am on a flight, before it lands, I always look out to see what describes that place.
The cleanest Indian city you have been to.
Hyderabad. The Swacch Bharat Mission seems to have really had an effect on the place. Besides, Charminar is a sight to cherish.
What is your best travelling memory?
A family trip we took to Nainital. We went on boats, showered under a waterfall – it was truly a trip to nature – and I really enjoyed it!
Words: Likhitha P Nair
Model: Mannara Chopra
Photographer: Carrot Gopakumar
Styling: Lakshmi Babu
Makeup & Hair Styling: Jijesh, Inspirit Makeovers
Costumes: M The Store – Mumbai, Aambal – Fort Kochi
Retouch: Deepanguran Pappilly
Location Courtesy: Kochi Marriott Hotel
Jewellery & Accessories: Sukriti Jwellery, Panampilly Nagar
Shoes: Sylcon
Production: FWD Media
Cover Story
THE QUIET FORCE OF A MODERN ICON

Behind every poised performance is a quiet, unshakable resolve—a journey of an artist who shows that true strength lies not in loud declarations, but in unwavering integrity and purpose.
There’s something about shoot days that hum with their own energy—where art direction instinct, and moments unfold faster than they can be captured. The FWD Magazine cover shoot with Madonna Sebastian was no exception. From the moment the segment began, it was a visual symphony—natural light, candid motion, curated chaos—all anchored by her easy presence.
By the time the cameras wrapped on the sunlit exteriors, Madonna returned indoors, slipping into a pristine white outfit that seemed to echo her state of mind: calm, clear, and open. The crew took a breather, the lenses cooled, but she remained in rhythm—poised yet unhurried.
It was then, in this in-between window—after the high-energy shoot, before the final touch-ups resumed—that she settled down for an unscripted chat with RJ Asha. No stage, no formal setup—just an airy corner of the space, a couple of chairs, and a warm conversation waiting to happen.
And that’s exactly what did. A moment carved out not for press quotes, but for perspective. For a glimpse into the artist behind the actress. The grounded soul behind the gaze the camera loves
You know Madonna. Or at least, you think you do.
She’s the chirpy Celine from Premam, the graceful Anjali from Kavan, the quiet storm in Kadhalum Kadanthu Pogum. But sitting across from her now, you start t0o sense something else. This is a woman who refuses to be boxed in by the roles she’s played, or the fame she’s earned. She isn’t just riding the wave of stardom—she’s surfing it, steering it, sometimes even swimming against it.
“I’ve never really chased this,” she says, “I just wanted to do good work. Whether it was singing, acting, even being on stage—if it didn’t feel honest, I’d walk away.”
That honesty has become her compass. It’s also what’s made her unpredictable in the best way. In an industry obsessed with hypervisibility and curated glam, Madonna’s detours feel radical. A music video here. A break to focus on home, or a spontaneous trip with friends there. No apologies. No PR spin. Just life.But make no mistake: there’s steel under the softness.
“I think people assume that if you’re polite or soft-spoken, you’re passive. That’s not true,” she says, eyes locking in. “I’ve said no more times than I’ve said yes in this industry. Not because I’m arrogant—but because I have clarity.”
That clarity has shaped her choices—from her refreshing screen presence to her deeply personal music. Her band’s indie singles drop like secret letters, far from the formulaic world of playback hits. Her voice, husky and haunting, doesn’t scream for attention. It holds it.
So how does she choose her projects?
Sometimes, it’s a script. Sometimes, it’s a song I’m writing at 2 a.m. under fairy lights. Sometimes it’s a film that pushes me out of my comfort zone, like Leo.”
Ah yes, Leo. The recent mega-hit that reminded audiences just how effortlessly she can hold her ground .
But ask her about the high of being in such a blockbuster, and she smiles without a trace of self-congratulation.
“It was a new space for me,” she admits. “Big canvas, big stakes. But what mattered most was working with people who respected the craft. I’m not into the noise around it. I liked the discipline of it.”
She’s not performing cool—she just is. In a world chasing trends, Madonna moves to her own rhythm.
Even her style says it all: breezy kurtas, vintage florals, bold red lips. Effortless. Unbothered.
When I ask about her five-year plan, she grins.
“I plan for joy. I plan for peace. I plan for purpose.”
That could mean a film—or a forest with no signal. She’s fine either way.
Madonna doesn’t demand attention. She owns it—with quiet power. And she’ll keep showing up, disappearing, and returning—on her terms.
Just like her art.
There’s a kind of presence that doesn’t chase attention—but effortlessly holds it. A quiet confidence that doesn’t need to speak loudly to be heard. In every gesture, every glance, there’s ease. Style, too, follows suit—never trying too hard, yet never fading into the background. A mix of breezy staples, soft silhouettes, vintage moods, and the occasional splash of edge—it all feels lived-in, not styled. Real.
Back inside, lights shift and lenses focus again. Another look, another frame—but nothing feels rehearsed. Just a rhythm she owns, unbothered by the pace around her. Some people leave impressions with spectacle. Others, with silence and substance.
This isn’t about trends or timelines. It’s about being grounded. It’s about rhythm over rush. And it’s a reminder that sometimes, the most magnetic thing in the room is the one not trying to be.
Cover Story
Starlit Wedding – Diya Krishna

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

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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