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Lucid Screens and Blazing Darkness

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fwd life Musicians who have left a mark on earth with their music

There is a quiet revolution going on in our homes, the stark silence drowned in screen lights

Text: Ronnie Kuriakose   Photo courtesy: unsplash.com

My father is a good man. He started working at the young age of twenty-two and with the help of his older employed siblings, dragged his family out of cruel poverty that gripped their lands then. A pioneer for their time, the family, for this reason, is still looked upon by the people of Vaikom, our hometown – a well of inspiration for those in hardship, a promise that hard work and truthfulness shall in the end pay rich dividends.

My father was also a learned man. In the early eighties, recognizing the trajectory of coastal towns and the many possibilities that it might bring, and perhaps needing a little change, he moved to Kochi and started working at SBT’s foreign exchange branch as a clerk – the golden years, he calls it. Now, some twenty years and more later, and after accumulating more duties and donning several senior roles, he serves as the manager at SBT’s FACT branch.

This is his story and it ends in him taking a well-deserved break after his retirement in three years and touring the world to his heart’s pleasure. This is also the story of all your good fathers. They have toiled years on end, ever patient, upholding the values of the company that they were in, and heartily, knowing quite well that their chance to own a cabin will come in time. There was no bickering, no running to the human resource team; neither was there competition among colleagues or the need to harbor hate.

Reflective screens

Then there’s me and us. The young people who think they are entitled to the world. The unfazed natives of the digital era wielding advanced technology in one hand and holding a pill in the other. The go-getters, with their many letters of resignation as arm badge. The productivity-clockers capable of spawning opportunities at will, trading sacks of gold and evoking seats of influence. Freakers, who live on the edge of sanity, effortlessly weaving in and out of gender traits, and living life to the fullest. The societal presumption of us is that we are self-indulgent, spoiled brats. Our social media accounts might suggest something similar. The reality, however, is very far from it.

There is a quiet revolution going on in Kochi homes. Fathers are coming back from work to find their sons – sons who should have been working to help pay back the student loan that was taken – now behind lucid screens after having quit their well-paying jobs citing reasons as vague as a lack of contentment. Nocturnal and unsentimental, we, with our ungodly music that drown out their advices and an ever-hungry mouth that bites on their pensions, are yet never an oddity for this modern time. With more flourished virtual lives than real, it is no surprise that they like to spend more time online. I also wonder if it is the compulsion to make it seem to others that you are alright and that everything is going well that is keeping these youngsters there. Fostered in early childhood, this need to be better than your neighbors has now come back to haunt every millennial’s home. What it has led to is a witch-hunt and most here in Kochi, unbeknownst to even them, are the perpetrators of it. It is the young people and to be more to the point, their magnificent dreams that are put at the stake.

Considered conversations

Since my last two articles in FWD – on the unspoken dangers of being good, and our relentless chase for contentment – I have discovered in my inbox emails that are, if anything, quiet sobs of disenfranchised youngsters, who are a far cry from said conceived presumptions. They are, from what I gather, self-conscious individuals who are forced to question whether they deserve happiness. A lot of them are made to feel guilty about everything they do. This has led to them speaking less, letting themselves to be seen less, and less engaged with society. They are afraid to show who they are, to word their many anxieties or doubts, and to share their ambitions. They are certain that they will be mocked for it or worse, disregarded.

My father is a good man, but in heeding him I fear that I might drown in a sea of existential despair. You and me, we are at war with the world. We wage it in hope that in victory we may be able to justify our past actions as breaking of shackles. Until then, we sit behind considerate screens praying to our virtual gods until society shrouds in with blazing darkness.

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Movies

A Nostalgic Journey Through Love &Cinema : Best Bollywood Romantic 90s Movies

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As we reminisce about the golden era of Bollywood cinema, the 90s stand out as a time when romance reigned supreme on the silver screen. From epic love stories to heartwarming tales of passion and longing, 90s Bollywood movies have left an indelible mark on our hearts and minds. If you’re in the mood for some classic romance this vacation, here’s a curated list of the best Bollywood romantic movies from the 90s that are guaranteed to make you swoon and fall in love all over again.

Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995):

Directed by Aditya Chopra, this iconic film starring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol is a timeless masterpiece that continues to capture the hearts of audiences worldwide. With its unforgettable love story, breathtaking scenery, and soul-stirring music, “DDLJ” is a must-watch for romantics of all ages.

Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! (1994):

Directed by Sooraj Barjatya, this beloved family drama starring Salman Khan and Madhuri Dixit is a celebration of love, tradition, and togetherness. With its vibrant song and dance sequences, endearing characters, and heartwarming storyline, “Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!” remains a cherished favorite among Bollywood fans.

Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998):

Directed by Karan Johar, this romantic drama starring Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, and Rani Mukerji is a quintessential love triangle that tugs at the heartstrings. With its catchy music, stylish costumes, and memorable dialogues, “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai” is a nostalgic journey back to the 90s era of Bollywood romance.

Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999):

Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, this epic love story starring Salman Khan, Aishwarya Rai, and Ajay Devgn is a cinematic masterpiece that explores the complexities of love and sacrifice. With its grandiose sets, soulful music, and powerful performances, “Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences.

Rangeela (1995):

Directed by Ram Gopal Varma, this romantic musical starring Aamir Khan, Urmila Matondkar, and Jackie Shroff is a colorful and vibrant ode to love and dreams. With its foot-tapping music, electrifying dance sequences, and captivating performances, “Rangeela” is a delightful blend of romance, drama, and entertainment.

As you embark on a nostalgic journey through the best Bollywood romantic movies of the 90s, prepare to be swept away by timeless love stories, unforgettable melodies, and iconic moments that have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. Whether you’re a die-hard romantic or simply in search of cinematic escapism, these timeless classics are sure to make your vacation a memorable and magical experience. So, grab some popcorn, snuggle up with your loved ones, and let the magic of 90s Bollywood romance transport you to a world of love, laughter, and happily ever afters.

 

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Events

Celebrity Muses at Lakme Fashion Week 2024

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Celebrities from Bollywood create a lot of buzz every year when they appear in fashion shows as the faces of up-and-coming or established designers in the nation. Lakme Fashion Week is one such event where a large number of Bollywood designers participate. As anticipated, the LFW roster this year had a number of well-known names and was stylish as well. Numerous well-known figures, including Madhuri Dixit and Ananya Panday, sashayed down the ramp. Let’s examine a few of the most well-known figures seen this season on the ramp.

Ananya Pandey

Ananya Panday looked amazing on the catwalk as she paired an off-the-shoulder black petal dress with high-rise leather boots. Wearing a long ponytail and walking confidently, she looked stunning for designer Rahul Mishra.

Aditya Roy Kapur and Janhvi Kapoor

Walking for fashion brand Kalki, Janhvi Kapoor and Aditya Roy Kapur took the show on the road. Aditya Roy Kapur was spotted wearing a black sherwani with embellishments, while Janhvi Kapoor sported an off-the-shoulder silk shirt and a maroon mermaid skirt.

Madhuri Dixit

Madhuri Dixit wore a gorgeous black floral co-ord set with a stylish blazer that gave off business woman vibes for Ranna Gill. She accessorized with modest locks and maroon lips for a neutral makeup look. 

Shanaya Kapoor

On the other hand, Shanaya Kapoor was spotted walking the ramp for Anamika Khanna while sporting an oversized white shirt with embroidered details and high-rise boots.

Tripti Dimri

Tripti Dimri graced the ramp for Shantnu and Nikhil donning an exquisite floor-length silver skirt paired with a sleeveless black top, a chic belt, and a magnificent set of hand gloves. 

Tapsee Pannu

As she walked for Gauri & Nainika, Tapsee Pannu was also seen on the ramp wearing a gorgeous bodycon gown with a mermaid cut end.

Malaika Arora

Malaika Arora spun around in a gorgeous pastel lehenga adorned with golden flower embroidery while she walked the Lakme Fashion Week runway for Anushka Reddy.

Rakul Preet

Rakul Preet, the newest bride in town, was also spotted on the ramp, walking for Ritika Mirchandani while sporting a white crop top and a skirt with a high thigh slit.

Aditi Rao Hydari

In Nirmooha’s ‘Ekatra’ collection, Aditi Rao Hydari embodies royalty as she explores individualism with dark purple coordinated outfits embellished with geometric designs and a dash of shine. 

Divya Khosla

In Rajdeep Ranawat’s opulent ‘Nizam’ collection, which is made of silk and features vintage accents, Divya Khosla looks stunning. The collection is inspired by the grandeur of Lucknow and the royal jewels of Hyderabad.  

Sara Ali Khan

Varun Chakkilam’s ‘Lenora’ collection, which combines modern style with Hyderabadi cultural aspects in pearl grey embroidered lehengas, features Sara Ali Khan flashing burn marks.

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Events

Lakme Fashion Week Day 2 Highlights

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From March 13 to 17, Lakme Fashion Week was held at the famous Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, which is situated in the center of the Bandra Kurla Complex. Lakme Fashion Week 2024 covered every genre, with an insightful and diverse list of designers showcasing their work. Collections included haute couture, street style, country wear, gothic vampire inspired, 1800s cowboy tribes, Indian bridal, Venetian tea party, and Victorian gowns. It’s time to break down some of the major SS’24 fashion trends as fashion week just ended. Sustainable Fashion Day, held on Day 2 of Lakme Fashion Week in collaboration with FDCI, featured some incredibly stunning runway looks. 

Til, Yavi, and Inca’s Collection

With their current collection, Inca, Til, and Yavi showcased sustainable design with clothing that promised both unparalleled comfort and glamour. In her role as Inca India’s show stopper, actor Dia Mirza dominated the show. Wearing an opulent all-black suit from their “Love is a Verb” collection, Mirza strutted down the runway. The collection complemented the concept of the event and was influenced by traditional artisan skills and repurposed materials.

Gaurang Shah’s Designs in Pink Hues

Gaurang’s “Gulaal” Lakme Fashion Week Spring/Festive collection. Lehengas and sarees with long-forgotten embroidery, such as Mochi, Parsi Gada, Petite Point, Kasuti, Phulkari, Kutch, and Kashmiri, were featured in the collection in the adaptable color pink.

Tea Cultures of the World x Chola 

With a focus on inclusivity and authenticity, Chola by Sohaya Misra and Tea Culture of the World honoured the merging of fashion and tea culture, embodying confidence, individualism, and empowerment. The collection’s runway was lit up by actresses Neha Dhupia and Konkona Sensharma’s stunning walks in black and white costumes.

U’Core by Urvashi Kaur

In Urvashi Kaur’s U’Core, contrasting selvedges were prominently featured. Her mother, Anupama Singh, along with notable models like Ratna Pathak Shah, Tillotama Shome, Rasika Dugal, Mallika Dua, Faraz Ansani, Shweta Tripathi, and Santanu Hazarika, showcased the collection’s artistry through stitch line details and hand block printing.

R|Elan X JJV Kapurthala

On Day 2 of Sustainable Fashion Day at Lakme Fashion Week, style and sustainability were guaranteed by the R|Elan X JJV Kapurthala collection. JJV incorporates ethical practices into its design philosophy in a seamless manner, improving garment performance and decreasing textile waste.

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