People
On a roller-coaster ride with Rex Vijayan
In conversation with Rex Vijayan about what’s keeping him busy nowadays
Words: Suhas K.M Compiled by: Shilpa Ann Stanley Featured image: Rex Vijayan
Rex Vijayan talks about his upcoming film Parava and his evolution as a musician. He shares his experiences of having worked with the likes of Dulquer Salmaan, Soubin Shahir, and directors like Anwar Rasheed, Ashiq Abu, and Sameer Thahir.
The song Pyaar..Pyaar is trending now all over social media. How was it composed?
Soubin Shahir briefed me about the song situation. He has asked me to compose a love song which has a lot of innocence. It’s a school love sequence, happening on Sports Day. I had heard a young kid’s rendition of Ho Gaya Hai Tujhko To Pyar Sajna…[From Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge], I made changes to the tempo and sent it to the director. He was very happy with it. The song was first titled ‘Nenjil Nenjil’ but as there are a lot of songs already with the same, I thought of changing it. Also, as Soubin is fond of children’s voices, we used them for this song.
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Dulquer Salmaan has sung a song in Parava. He has usually sung fast numbers so far. The song Ormakal is a melodious one. How did he come about doing it? How was your experience with him?
Dulquer sang that song very well. It did not take more than 2hours to complete that song. He sang very professionally. I never felt that it was an actor who was singing the song. However, he was not satisfied with his singing. He kept on correcting his mistakes. But I got more than what I expected. The song is mainly about friendship. He is a very down to earth person and really friendly, so it was very easy working with him.
The movies which you have done so far had an urban touch. Parava is a film based in Mattancherry. Was this a challenge for you?
For me, each and every movie I commit to is challenging. But Parava was more trying. It is unique in its concept. The story revolves around pigeons and so I had to incorporate their actual chirping and twittering through sync-sound, which was the difficult part. The movie has three songs. Apart from Pyaar pyaar and Ormakal, the third song is a fast number. Ormakal has another version as well in the background music.
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Looking at your career, there is a lot of gap from between the films you have done. Why is it so?
Frankly speaking, I am not getting many offers. I am satisfied with what I’m getting and I am always happy with the work I do. I don’t want to handle too many projects at a time as I am interested in doing only one project at a time.
You have composed music for some of the most important movies in the careers of people such as Anwar Rasheed (Bridge from Kerala Café), Ashiq Abu (22 Female Kottayam), and Sameer Thahir (Chaappa Kurishu and Neelakasham Pachakadal Chuvanna Bhoomi). What do you have to say about that?
(Laughing) It is just the opposite. These were movies that in fact gave me a break in my career! It was very comfortable working with them. Be it Aashiq, Anwar or Sameer, our taste in music was the same, which made things easier.
Most of your tracks have been sung by new comers. Is there any particular reason that you choose them over other established singers?
It’s our instinct to always reach out first to our friends. That’s the same principle I have followed here as well. I try to get my tracks sung by my friends. Also, I have always given full freedom to my directors to choose the singers.
Which musician’s style and composition would you say has influenced you?
I admire Johnson mashu. He used to do all genres. His music compositions are magical. Since I am a guitarist, I know a lot of guitarists. Van Halen is my favourite band.
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What do you think about the current scenario for independent musicians in this era?
I think there is a lot of scope for independent musicians. The audience is now receptive to different music genres. Now there are a lot opportunities, thanks to various social media and stage shows. The movie industry has also now opened up to independent musicians.
Your first hit from Avial as a band was in 2008, and it has been a long while since your fans have had another album from the band. Can we expect something in the near future?
We have been composing on and off but nothing’s been really productive. But right now we have fixed a deadline and should be able to come out with something by 2018.
Could you please tell us about your upcoming projects?
Right now, I’m working on Ashiq’s new movie titled Mayanadhi.
Spotlight
Motherhood in Vogue :Deepika Padukone’s Stunning Maternity Photoshoot
Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh are eagerly awaiting the arrival of their first child, due later this month. In anticipation of this joyous milestone, the couple recently shared a series of heartwarming photos from their pregnancy photoshoot. The pictures beautifully capture mom-to-be Deepika flaunting her baby bump, while others showcase the couple sharing joyful moments, their smiles wide and laughter contagious.
In the photos, Deepika stuns in various outfits. She rocks mom jeans paired with a lacy bra and cardigan in the first few shots, exuding casual elegance. In another set, she channels her inner boss lady in a sleek black pantsuit. A third look features Deepika in a see-through maxi dress, where she is captured twirling and lost in thought. For her final look, she dons a black, see-through bodycon dress, posing alongside her husband Ranveer in a series of intimate and stylish shots. The couple captioned their post with a few simple emojis, but that was enough to ignite a flurry of reactions from fans.
Deepika and Ranveer first announced their pregnancy on February 29, just before attending Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s pre-wedding bash in Jamnagar. Their announcement featured a postcard with the word “September” and adorable drawings of baby accessories. Following the news, Deepika faced criticism and accusations of faking her baby bump. However, with this stunning photoshoot, she has gracefully silenced her detractors, proving once again that she is in full command of her narrative.
Architecture
Creating a Cozy Living Room: Tips for Comfort and Style
Your living room is more than just a space for entertaining; it’s a sanctuary where you unwind, relax, and spend quality time with loved ones. Creating a cozy living room involves a blend of comfort and style that makes the space inviting and functional. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect balance:
Choose the Right Furniture
Start with furniture that combines comfort and functionality. Opt for a plush sofa with deep cushions, perfect for lounging. Consider adding a cozy armchair or a recliner for additional seating. Make sure the furniture arrangement promotes conversation and allows for easy movement throughout the room.
Layer Your Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood. Use a mix of lighting sources to create a warm ambiance. Combine overhead lights with floor lamps, table lamps, and wall sconces. For added coziness, incorporate dimmers or smart bulbs that let you adjust the brightness to suit different times of day and activities.
Add Textures with Throws and Pillows
Textures are key to a cozy living room. Layer different fabrics, such as soft throw blankets, plush pillows, and textured rugs. Choose fabrics like wool, velvet, and cotton that add warmth and comfort. Mix and match patterns and colors to create visual interest and a personalized touch.
Incorporate Warm Colors
Color influences the feel of a room. Opt for warm, neutral tones like beige, taupe, or soft gray for a calming effect. Accents in rich colors like deep blues, earthy greens, or warm terracotta can add depth and coziness. Use these colors in your furniture, accessories, and wall decor.
Use Rugs to Define Spaces
Rugs can help define different areas within a living room and add a layer of warmth underfoot. Choose a rug that complements your furniture and adds softness to the space. A large area rug can anchor the room, while smaller rugs can be used to highlight specific areas, like a reading nook or conversation zone.
Incorporate Natural Elements
Bring the outdoors in by incorporating natural elements. Plants not only add a touch of greenery but also improve air quality and create a calming atmosphere. Choose low-maintenance plants like succulents or snake plants if you’re not an avid gardener. Wooden furniture or decor pieces can also add a natural, grounded feel to the room.
Personalize with Artwork and Décor
Add personality to your living room with artwork and decorative items that reflect your style. Choose pieces that resonate with you, whether it’s family photos, abstract art, or vintage finds. Arrange decor items in groups to create visual interest and avoid clutter.
Create a Focal Point
A focal point helps draw the eye and creates a sense of balance in the room. This could be a fireplace, a statement piece of art, or a stylish coffee table. Arrange your furniture and decor around this focal point to enhance the room’s overall cohesion and appeal.
Invest in Quality Window Treatments
Window treatments can impact both the look and feel of your living room. Opt for curtains or blinds that provide privacy while allowing natural light to filter through. Choose fabrics that complement your decor and add texture, such as linen or velvet.
Add Personal Touches
Finally, make the space truly yours by adding personal touches. Incorporate items that have sentimental value or reflect your interests and hobbies. Whether it’s a collection of travel souvenirs, a beloved quilt, or unique decorative objects, these elements will make your living room feel more inviting and personal.
By thoughtfully combining these elements, you can create a cozy living room that serves as a comfortable retreat and a stylish gathering place for friends and family. Enjoy the process of making your space uniquely yours and revel in the comfort and warmth it provides.
People
JLO’s Bridgerton Themed Birthday Bash
There are two types of diamonds in the Bridgerton universe: the diamond of the season and the queen who selects it. Without a doubt, Jennifer Lopez belongs to the latter group.
JLO brought Bridgerton to life this past weekend in the Hamptons, where she threw an amazing event to celebrate turning 55. The celebration featured a live orchestra and a horse-drawn carriage, among other features more commonly found at social gatherings in the early 1800s. Naturally, Lady Whistletown was not prepared for the glitzy Regency-era attire either.
In her first ensemble designed by Manish Malhotra, she looked downright royal in a stunning light blue ball gown with a bodice piece that had off-the-shoulder cuffs and gilded diamond-shaped embroidery. The gown was worn over a full skirt that was embroidered with larger-than-life gold floral motifs.
Lopez wore few accessories and let the dress do the talking because of how grand the ensemble was. She chose stud earrings, a basic pendant necklace, and sheer white opera gloves. She had a gold laurel crown in her hair.
Jennifer transformed into something a bit more fluid later in the evening, which made it easier for her to move around the dance floor and interact with other attendees. This second dress was a gauzy moss-green number with a sequined floral bust, and it too had an off-the-shoulder neckline.
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