Cover Story
Living Limitless with PEARLE MAANEY
When it comes to traveling, Pearle Maaney does not go en route the easy way but rather lives and rides her own
When it comes to traveling, Pearle Maaney does not go en route the easy way but rather lives and rides her own way.
Ruminant in Ruins
A dawn in an intense indigo flows through her saree, belted by a silver horizon. Her smoky eyes capture it all, like the shadows cast across the colonnade. The morning resonates with the delicate sound of the tasseled metallic bells on her chain and the music from the hall of pillars. The light shines on her intricate silver jewelry, handcrafted like the pillars of granite. Standing tall, they have watchful lions that have seen the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire. The kingdom that grew along the banks of the Tungabhadra reflects the strength of Dravidian architecture.
In Line with Symmetry
The Vijayanagara Kingdom was in contact with many cultures, employing different architectural languages. The region has temples that explored the Dravidian style and palaces that took to the Islamic one. The art of ikat on her saree follows the line of the decorative arches that had seen royal entourages. Traditional crafts take a contemporary turn, magnified by the canary yellow blouse. In a Pushkarani or a stepped well, the pleats of her saree lay stacked as the stone slabs of the steps. The magenta rippled seamlessly like the water in the tank, a sacred commodity.
Prowess in Structure
Her mudra focuses her inner goddess, draped in black and vermillion -a stance frozen in time with the carved friezes of the Dravidian temple gateway. Like the stepped shikhara reaching for the heavens, she stands tall, enclosing a sacred notion in the sanctum. She leaves the Maya behind as she moves around the Pradakshinapatha through the series of spaces that connect to the Garbagriha. The geometric patterns of the handwork reflect the geometry of the built form. Her feet adorned with Ghungroos bring together an era that celebrated art and culture.
I have a vivid recollection of catching her on TV the first time. It was a chat show and here was a young lady who was beautiful in a very unconventional way; Curly, untamed hair, a child-like face and above all a demeanor that had the stamp of confidence.
As she pulled one antic after another, I could sense that she was not goofing around like it seemed but had a clear idea as to what she was up to. In fact, she gave me the impression of being in control. At this point, I have to make it clear that I am not he regular fanboying kind, not one bit. But here I was intrigued by this woman. I had to swing into action and I did. Taking aid of every fan’s primary tool, Google, I found out a few things about this woman with a strange name, Pearle Maaney.
Cut to three years later, here I was sitting right across a table with Pearle Maaney. Three years had changed quite a few things. For one, the intrigue, I thought had left me. But Pearle Maaney by now had become a household name in Kerala and the Malayalakara adored her.
Giving a Hoot
I was advised to make this a fun interview, something to go with Pearle’s persona. Not being exactly the fun guy, I was somehow hoping to employ my rather sloppy sense of humor to churn out something that could be passed off as fun. But secretly I was wishing the interview had happened at Hampi where the pictures were shot. I wanted it to be with her amidst the majestic ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire, having a conversation with the Indian princess, the pictures of who left us spellbound. I plainly wanted it to be profound and honestly gave two hoots about fun. But no, here I was at a café in Kochi, trying to pull off a fun interview and disastrously failing at it.
Pearle was dressed in a bohemian jacket and looked like a dream. I attacked her with a few regular questions and she gave me long, patient answers. Then we generally got talking and somewhere between the proceedings of the interview, the conversation started getting serious, philosophical even. No, it was not I who pushed her towards it; it has she who led the way. I being a sucker for stories wanted to hear of her about her all the way from her childhood. And she being the natural conversationalist, readily obliged. Right from her childhood obsession with bikes, the good old days of Road Rash to her college days in Christ College and her foray into stardom, she told me stories of everything.
Pearle Maaney is a polymath. I don’t care if that is an old-fashioned word, but that suits her best. She has played multiple roles and her talents are many. She has been an RJ, a DJ, a VJ, a dancer, a singer, an actor, even an activist. But during the conversation, I discovered another facet of hers; that of a dreamer, a visionary. I thought this was the aspect that fuelled her and made her who she was. As the discussions moved into media, society, and violence the society, she made it clear that what we sowed was what we reaped. “We cannot expect a reformed society when all that we feed it is violence.” I thought it all totaled up, the Hampi shoot, her bohemian attire and the timeless wisdom that she spoke about.
The Good, Bad and the Ugly
She has never been ashamed of her failures rather she is proud of the fact that she has overcome them. We know of the Pearle who is confident and sure of herself. But she says she has had her hard times, her doubting moments too. A dark time when she doubted herself and was finding it difficult to recoup from falls. She tells me that it was with a conscious effort that she got out of that pit. But she also gives credit to many people that she has met in her life for changing her and above all her hero, her dad.
She also had a gem of a tale about accepting criticism. She recently faced a lot of flak for something that apparently was considered outrageous by many. The internet went absolutely vicious on her. But she chose to look at the scathing attacks on her as a sign of the love that people had for her. “I chose to color all the reactions that I got with love and ended up getting more love in return. That’s how the Law of Attraction works for me.” So, where would I see Pearle Maaney a few years down the line, I wanted to know. She laughs. “Everywhere, anywhere. I am carving my own path. I shall find my own destinations.” Peace, love and music to you, Pearle!
Model: Pearle Maaney
Photographs by Sanu Mohammed
Design & Styling: Soha Sukku
Makeup: Renju Renjimar
Image Manipulation: Zuhair Sait
Location: Hampi, Karnataka
Words by FWD Media
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.
Cover Story
Sarees of India : Punjab’s Phulkari
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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