Cover Story

In Line with the Majestic

Beyond the emperor’s clothes, we take a look at what Sijoy Varghese has got up his sleeve

Published

9 years ago

June 15, 2016

FWDmedia

Beyond the emperor’s clothes, we take a look at what Sijoy Varghese has got up his sleeve

Sijoy’s looks can be deceiving. As a wise copywriter once said, “It’s all in a headline.” Thus, I started with a line to ensure that your eyes move to the next sentence, after all the photographs may hold you captive.

Accoutered in a plush vine bandghala, Sijoy Varghese walked towards the shoot proudly, to take his position. He adjusted his cravat, rested his arm upon his sceptre and with very focussed eyes, posed like a king. Frozen for the frame, his poise reflected the same image as portraitures of kings and emperors on the walls of ancient castles. As soon as the camera snapped a shot, his sharp eyes relaxed, and he broke into a smile which instantly quelled the air
of authority. Beyond the portrait, Sijoy was anything but a formidable feudal lord, he is a funny, laid back adman, who is also effectively the most selfeffacing celebrity you would meet. “Though people think I am stylish and cool by my appearance. I believe I am a typical Malayalee at heart. I am the sort who is interested in Ashaan Kalari and grew up writing Malayalam letters on ezuthola (palm leaf) with ezuthani (stylus used to write on palm leaves).”

Sijoy Varghese for FWD Life Magazine

So for someone penning down letters on palm leaves, it doesn’t come as a surprise that this man-of-many words in fact belongs to advertising. At the first go, one would think he is the brand ambassador for something like the Braun shaving trimmers. His movie roles have only proved time and again his affliction to styling his beard; which our stylist would vouch for in a book on how to style Sijoy’s beard. But instead, he is the ‘Charlie’ of his factory. He spearheads the TVC Factory, an ad film production house that operates in Kochi, Mumbai and Dubai. Pun intended, he said that the last movie he enjoyed was ‘Charlie’ and he feels there’s a little Charlie that runs in his wild- pirited mind. “If you are in advertising, you are naturally just a bit crazy.”An example? Martin Prakkat was quite sure Sijoy would bail out from his role, but he still gave the tailors the measurement for his costume. When Sijoy tried on the police uniform, he stared at himself in the mirror, twirled his moustache and said he was taken back by a storm of power. He walked into the setunrehearsed-as commissioner Benny Thomas, and, oh well, made his first debut in a movie, ABCD.

Tell Tales

I found the interview to be rather very easy going. Stories ebbed and flowed, with no interruptions from intermittent questions. Rather, it was evident that he is fascinated with story-telling, which he confirmed has been the case since he was a little boy. “When grandparents narrate a story, they put in the actual emotion and expression, and these minor things will enhance the creative visualisation capacity in a child’s mind who sits and listens to them keenly.” He retorts that when he winds up with storyboards at work, the next set of stories unfurl as bedtimestories for his children – a lovely pack of four- Adhitya, Amy, Annie & Anthony, who never cease to ask, “And then what happened?”

Sijoy Varghese for FWD Life Magazine

Sijoy wasn’t one to decide his career path, he didn’t think he was particularly cut out to become a doctor or engineer, and neither did he think he would get into the creative field.

He says, “According to me, being creative is not something you realise one fine morning. It is a continuous process which is understood by the way you behave in certain situations and the way you talk which will build a conviction in your mind.” His earliest memory of having a way with words was one time when he quarrelled with his sister who teased him saying that he stole the lines of the poem he had written. She jokingly added that he was seen sneaking into the Ernakulam Public Library as well, for this feat. Undaunted, he proved his wits by writing a poem impromptu and recited it in front of everyone, an arduous one about his mother. To this she replied, “You are not that bad after all, you have brains.” A phenomenal impetus surged in him.

An undertone unravels when you look into Sijoy’s works. From his first venture into scriptwriting with Sidharth Bharathan for the vignette ‘Isha’ in Amal Neerad Production ‘5 Sundarikal’ to his role in Peter in ‘James and Alice’, it’s pleasant to see how words can uplift an unsought idea. He believes that whatever career one pursues, there should always be an effort to hone skills and impart the best you can. One of his revered muses is late Mathew Paul, ad director most known for the Poppy umbrella ads and one who started the initiative, ‘Indian ad filmmakers association’. Sijoy was the secretary at the time, with an aim to be socially-responsible by promoting inspiring videos. For him running an ad agency goes beyond just hitting the right target audience and being successful.

Role Play

A green tea later, Sijoy casually slid into the couch, nonchalant about the camera. He talked about how coach Zach in ‘Bangalore Days’ was a lifechanging role and joked about how biker jackets did a great job making one look rough and tough. “A group of students from Mangalapuram and Coimbatore invited me to their college to inaugurate their biking clubs thinking I am an awesome rider who could perform stunts. But the truth is I am no daredevil, I just enjoy riding a bike, like a normal rider. ”Away from the mettlesome role, Sijoy like Coach Zach embraces something, the pursuit of happiness.

Sijoy Varghese for FWD Life Magazine

The formal tone of the interview waned when he addressed me by my name. The more we conversed, the more apparent it was on his attentiveness- a trait he acquired in the youth motivation programme he attends. “I like the fact that the younger generation today is trying to maintain the traditional setting of Fort Kochi. My colleague prevented his uncle from destroying an old property of theirs by merging it with Biennale. I appreciate that action of his.” While most feel the word youth has become trite, his belief in today’s youth is remarkably lucid and vocal.

Sijoy Varghese for FWD Life Magazine

“The young generation fosters our future. I am happy to see them instill an ambiance of creativity in the field of advertising here in Kerala.”

Sijoy mentioned that while directing ad films is his ultimate passion, he enjoys doing fresh and challenging roles occasionally. His recent role as Peter in ‘James and Alice’ was his toughest but most fulfilling role, he says. “After reading through the script and wrapping up our discussion, the first thing I wanted to do leaving that meeting was to go have lunch with my wife Tessy and our children.” An advocate for always being there for the family, he said the movie didn’t fail to narrate in realism, and that it gives an agreeable insight into marriage. Playing the role of Peter, Sijoy said that it is roles like these that make the world of films much more meaningful. “In the end, it always

Sijoy Varghese for FWD Life Magazine

comes down to your family. They are the ones who make me realise ‘jeevitham ente lahari aanu’. And if there’s anything that beats a glass of spirit, it’s his humour. “During the shoot of ‘James and Alice’, there was a scene where the protagonist Prithvi Raj had to walk through the hospital hallway. All the nurses were thrilled, clad in their veils. When we had to retake the shot, they were all waiting eagerly to see him again, and even took off their veils. But much to their disappointment it was me who walked in.” He mimics their reactions, still unable to keep from laughing every time he thinks about it. And so, unlike how this interview began, beneath his proud stance and emperor moustache, Sijoy Varghese is really a funny, funny (so good you say it twice) adman. The lights faded, the cameras were switched off. He laughed, “Interview over?”

Sijoy Varghese for FWD Life Magazine

I replied, smiling, “You may have to tell us another story.” He grinned, unable to refuse.

That’s why there are a few more lines beyond this full stop.

Beyond the full stop

All in a Handshake

“During the promotion of ‘Bangalore Days’, a child went running up to him and shook his hands with deep respect. He was so flattered. Things took a drastic turn when the child innocently asked him, “Can you pass this hand shake to Dulquer?” He still chuckles at this story.

The Unexpected Entrance

When ‘Jamna Pyari’ was released, there was a major cheer for Kunchacko Boban by his fan club in the theatre. There was much noise and hype for Kunchacko’s character, Vasu. In the scene where the protagonist was coming out, the fans released a huge burst of confetti. nly, it wasn’t Kunchacko but Sijoy. He said that he never expected such a welcome.

Now available on : http://goo.gl/NVkK8v

Model: Sijoy Varghese

Photographer: Jinson Abraham

Words By Atheena Wilson

Styling: Lakshmi Babu

Makeup & Hair Styling: Blessy Mary Chacko

Costumes: Kim India

Retouch: Jemini Ghosh

Location: David Hall and Fragrant Nature, Kochi

Production: FWD Media

Special Thanks: Metro, Lulu Mall

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Cover Story

THE QUIET FORCE OF A MODERN ICON

Published

3 weeks 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

9 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

9 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.