Cover Story

Fitting in with Shaun and Amalda

Published

9 years ago

August 19, 2016

FWDmedia

fwd life Shaun romy & Amalda liz decathlon main image

Model-turned-actors Shaun Romy and Amalda Liz tells us how a paradigm shift in their careers only proved to be a greater opportunity to showcase their charm and talents.

fwd life Shaun romy & Amalda liz decathlon shawn urban street leggings

On Shaun:Top Bra Comfort Pink and Grey By Decathlon,Multicolour AJ4765 Women’s Sport Urban Street Leggings, Bankshot Mid Shoes By Adidas Originals
Props: Abs Bench 500, Medicine Ball 1 Kg, Hex Dumbbell 5 Kg, 4 Kg Kettlebell From Decathlon

Posing in pink, vibrant jackets, and frisky sneakers, Shaun Romy and Amalda Liz appeared unperturbed by the blistering heat, outside the massive Decathlon sports store in Kalamassery. Unheeding of the heads they were turning, the duo indulged in a surreal conversation with the camera that meticulously soaked up their mien. Shaun seemed like a natural at the location, effortlessly riding on a fourwheeled scooter. None the lesser of a striker, Amalda soon joined; both geared and ready to be shot.

The Hang of It

fwd life Shaun romy & Amalda liz decathlon amalda kiprace

Amalda is wearing a Kiprace Blue Purple Tank, Elio ¾ Tight Black Print Cropped Leggings : Both By Decathlon
Props: Fkt180 Boxing Gloves, TB1200 Punch Black Bag From Decathlon.

When Adidas’ “all in” commercial featuring Katy Perry and Caroline Wozniacki hit the screens, it was a wake-up call for many. Patriarchal societies around the world have always hesitated to show or see the strength and vigour in their women. Though trivial, this social incongruity is a paradox that we, as a tolerant civilisation need to address. This thought is the inspiration behind FWD’s cover shoot for our health issue, and we welcomed onboard two young, talented women to iconise sport and fitness. After many years of rapport with cameras, Shaun Romy and Amalda Liz recently proved their talents on the big screen as Anitha and Rosamma in the hit movie “Kammattipaadam”. FWD speaks to them about life, health, and stardom.

What has fascinated you the most about being in front of the camera?

fwd life Shaun romy & Amalda liz decathlon pharella kauwela

Amalda is wearing a Pharella Kauwela Track Top, Women Originals Inked Leggings : Both By Adidas Originals Top Comfort Virtual Black, Black Del Sot 530 Ay White Spotted
Shoes: Both By Decathlon
Props: Yamba Blue Corail From Decathlon

Shaun: I happened to do a fashion shoot in college once, and many of my photographer friends told me that I looked good on camera. That is when the idea of being a model dawned upon me, although it was always more like a hobby. Professionally, I saw myself doing what I learned, which is bio-tech engineering.

Amalda: I was fascinated about being an actress ever since I was a child. Then while in college in Kochi, I was selected for the Miss Kerala competition and that was a formal start. I shifted to Kochi then, from Wayanad, and it has been five years of modeling so far.

Maintaining a good lifestyle is very important for your profession. How do you manage that?

Shaun: I think it is important for everyone. I make it a point to exercise every day. Ever since I started modelling, I have been hitting the gym. But in the last two years, I have shifted to interval training and I practice yoga at home. Workout helps you feel healthy and good about yourself, you feel fresh. And I recommend everyone to find time for their kind of work out.

Amalda: I love swimming. I swim for an hour, four days a week and it helps me stay fit and maintain my weight. I used to go to the gym and even practiced kalari for a bit, but I found swimming to be very comfortable. I think everyone has their own comfort of exercise. You just need to find one you can stick to. After all, we all have different tastes. The important thing is to have a cycle to everything.

The modelling vs food debate has been going on for ages. What are your thoughts on dieting?

Shaun: I wouldn’t endorse dieting, rather I would endorse a good, healthy diet. I usually eat when I am hungry, but then I make sure I workout to compliment that. I don’t believe in starving myself. I do, however, avoid junk food as much as I can.

Amalda: I like to keep my food healthy and simple. I make sure I don’t overeat. Avoiding fried and oily items, and keeping a limit for your food intake can be healthy on a regular basis. For “Kammattipaadam” I had to lose 10 Kg to fit the role of a younger character. Losing weight like that is a whole different strategy and I followed some Ayurvedic methods to do so.

Cinema and modelling are related. How was the transition for you?

Shaun: Oh, it is entirely a different world! I think being an actor needs you to be honest. When you pose for a picture, it only takes five seconds of pretending to feel some way. But being in a movie is about internalising your feelings.

Amalda: I used to do theatre for a while, and when you are doing a scene, it takes you to get in touch with that character. I think it is a process, unlike doing a photo shoot.

Kammattipaadam was a movie set in a different time frame and social set-up which portrayed women as being timid. What were your challenges while doing the movie?

Shaun: I love movies. And I was more intrigued than challenged. I read up on the lives of Dalits, the oppression they faced and how the women were timid and never had a voice. I have seen women like that, and it was easier for me to empathise. It was a contrast for me, as I am the exact opposite of it. But versatility is an important factor in acting.

Amalda: I travelled to a few places, and met a few people who inspired the characters in the movie. It was something new, something different. I had to prepare myself to feel like Rosamma. I guess these things are unavoidable as an actor. You cannot always stick to a comfort zone. There is no growth in that.

What would you like to be known as? An actress or a model?

Shaun: Actress. I am fascinated by movies as a medium for storytelling. I would like to be recognised as a character telling a story.

Amalda: Actress, of course. Modelling was only a path that got me where I wanted to be.

How important is individuality of style for an actor/ model?

fwd life Shaun romy & Amalda liz decathlon tukana super girl track

On Shaun: in wearing a Tukana Supergirl track top, Stan Smith Shoes: Both By Adidas Originals
Props: Oxelo Stune Street Scooter From Decathlon

Shaun: I have always had my own sense of style. I think your style is your character, and every person needs to develop it on his/her own.

Amalda: Style for me is about comfort. I wear what would help me blend in and feel at ease no matter where I am.

What would you describe as your dream role?

Shaun: I love strong characters played by women. If I have to pick out, I would say something like Priyanka’s role in Mary Kom.

Amalda: The role that Jennifer Lawrence played in American Hustle. Something like that would be my dream role.

What is your favourite food?

Shaun: I am a fan of local Malayali cuisine, like rice and fish curry. Nothing beats that for me.

Amalda: Wow! that is a tough question (laughs). I like all kinds of cuisine. Healthy food has been my priority for too long!

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Shaun: I see myself being a known name in the creative field. Above all, I see myself being happy.

Amalda: Successful actress. That is what I am working towards.

What is in store for you now? Any new projects?

Shaun: Not so far, I am just going to keep doing what I am doing.

Amalda: I will be working on a project with Antony Sony with Manju Warrier as the lead. Shooting should start next month.

This cover shoot was all about sports and physical activities. Are you into sports?

fwd life Shaun romy & Amalda liz decathlon quechua popup camping tent

On Amalda: Inked pack Fitted Tee, Pharrell Cammo Tree Skirt: Both By Adidas Originals Black Del Sot 530 Ay White Spotted Shoes, From Decathlon.
On Shaun: Camoflauge Tree Cropped Multicolour Tee, Womens Original Leggins: and Novinka Adidas Pavao Ess Bp Bag All From Adidas Originals Pavao Ess Backpack, By Adidas.
Props: Quechua Pop Up Camping Tents (Tent), Quechua Forclaz 60 Backpack Travelling Bag, Arm Chair from Decathlon Royal Enfield Himalayan from Royal Enfield Brand Store Edappally, Kochi.

Shaun: Not lately. In school, I used to run hundred metres. Nowadays I jog sometimes. But I guess fitness is a very vital concept. This is the first time I am doing a sports shoot. Though I have always loved dressing up in sporty clothes, this shoot was a brilliant opportunity.

Amalda: I must admit, I have always been bad at sports. But I loved the costumes and set up today. Dressing up like this made me feel a certain kind of strength and I really enjoyed it. A full day of shoot in the scorching heat didn’t dampen their spirits a notch. Despite shooting since four in the morning, they were all smiles and buoyed with energy throughout the day. At 2PM, under a merciless sun, the duo walked into the location with an aura of confidence that lingered around them. Seeing these ladies throw in their best angles, words by Eleanor Roosevelt crossed my mind – “A woman is like a tea bag – you can’t tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water.”

SHEDDING CALORIES THE RIGHT WAY

Amalda had to shed about 10 Kg to act a role younger to her age in the movie Kammattipaadam. Here are a few of her recommendations

Skip dinner – Your body can easily shed calories. This is also the time you feel the least hungriest when you are into a diet. Just like your body needs rest at night, so as the digestive system.
Fasting – Going on an only-water diet for two to five days is great for your body, for weight loss and to detox. Your body utilises the energy it uses to digest, for repairing and revitalising the system. It’s a little tedious but worth it once you start seeing the results.
Eating once a day – This is partial fasting. Eating one meal a day, in particular lunch, at a fixed time regularly helps shed fat and calories. It seems tough but you will end up getting the hang of it. No pain, no gain.

Models: Amalda Liz & Shaun Romy
Photographer: Toonus
Styling: Lakshmi Babu
Makeup & Hair Styling: Shalu George
Costumes: Adidas Originals, Lulu Mall & Decathlon, Kalamassery, Kochi
Retouch: Jemini Ghosh
Location Courtesy: Decathlon, Kalamassery
Production: FWD Media

Words by Likhitha P Nair and Photos by Toonus

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Cover Story

THE QUIET FORCE OF A MODERN ICON

Published

4 days ago

May 13, 2025

Anandhu Aji

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.

Madonna Sebastian for FWD Life magazine photoshoot

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.

Madonna Sebastian for FWD Life magazine photoshoot

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 .

Madonna Sebastian for FWD Life magazine photoshoot

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.

Madonna Sebastian for FWD Life magazine photoshoot

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

Published

8 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

8 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.