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Paris Laxmi: The French Malayali

“There will always be obstacles in life. So why complicate it further by being miserable. Do what you love”

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Photos: Suneesh Suresh
laxmi 3

Photos: Suneesh Suresh

“There will always be obstacles in life. So why complicate it further by being miserable. Do what you love”

Laxmi’s home in Vaikom is an abode for dance. Her husband, Sunil Pallipuram welcomes us with folded palms. He is clad in a shirt and mundu with his forehead and neck marked with sandalwood paste. A renowned Kathakali artist, Sunil has performed on many international stages. He gestures us to sit, as we wait for our interview with his wife Paris Laxmi. Laxmi is familiar to us all as the sari wearing madammakutty from Bangalore Days who marries Kuttan. She walks out into the verandah looking resplendent in a bright blue and pink sari and stands respectfully next to Sunil. “My name is really Laxmi, I did not change it. The addition of Paris was for recognition”, she says. Her eyes are lined black, separated by a pink bindi. If her features were not so Caucasian, one wouldn’t believe that this extremely talented woman was not a true blue nadan penkutti.

“Shall I get you something to drink or eat?” Sunil Pallipuram is a gracious host. He brings in glasses of Karangali Vellom and typical Malayali snacks. The house betrays no evidence of the two different heritages. “Suniletta” Laxmi calls out to her husband to ask something. Their love story was a hot topic in Kerala. A French Bharathanatyam dancer marrying a Kathakali artist, fourteen years her senior. Magazines and newspapers announced their romance to a curious world. For Laxmi and Sunil, their world is dance. Following the traditions in the art form they also combine their two styles on stage in a production called Sangamam. Sunil lets us pour over their wedding album and relates stories of living in France as Laxmi discusses the photo shoot. He describes to us Laxmi’s house in Provence, where there are many Indian idols and religious music playing. He seemed as wonderstruck, as we were at the moment, over the Quinio family’s love for India. Would you live and settle in France, we ask him. He smiles as he says that France is a beautiful country to visit but he is definitely comfortable here. They currently run the Kalashakti dance school and perform at various venues. Their neighbor is teaching Laxmi the language and she is keen to learn amongst her busy schedule. As we talk to her in a mix of English and Malayalam, her passion for the art is shines and her every answer is laden with expression.

Yolaxmi 2u have been dancing since you were nine years old. What about dance moves you?

I think I was born with the love for dance. I requested my parents to start dance classes at the age of 3 but started contemporary at 5 and then ballet and jazz, in France. While travelling in India, I watched classical performances and wanted to learn. When my mother found a Bharatanatyam teacher, Armelle Choquard in our town, I started classes with her at the age of 9. I just can’t imagine my life without dance; all dance forms inspire me.

(Sunil shows us a picture of her at the age of three seemingly holding a mudra)

Which navrasa/bhavam do you identify with the most?

I would say that everyone should always be merged into the Sringhara bhavam, Love, the ultimate rasa. I am trying my best to fill my life and the lives others with this feeling; only love can bring beauty and harmony around us.

The cultural heritage of our country is not part of the popular culture. How important is it to uphold traditional forms of art?

Heritage is part of the identity of a country. It is very important to preserve and promote it. Even if the majority of youth is attracted by other cultures, the society should create opportunities for artists to meet these youngsters to develop an awareness of the classical art forms. While ignoring the greatness of their own culture they may naturally be attracted by others.

You mentioned in an interview that you did not appreciate dance competitions and reality shows. If you were to make them more meaningful, what would you do?

I am not against these competitions and reality shows, what I do not appreciate is the way participants are performing, most of the time without learning the basics of the style, without training and knowledge of the art form. I am always advising the children to train regularly and in a classical way for at least one year before thinking about performing for a competition or any show. Otherwise I feel it is disrespecting the art form.

You come from a family which appreciates Indian culture but still you grew up in a French society. How was it growing up in France with your Indian affinity and then living in Kerala with your French identity?

My parents brought my brother Narayan and me every year to India during holidays from a young age. We travelled all over. In France, nobody understood this craziness about another country! We were saving money all the year to come here, which was our most expected period of the year! Now I am just so happy, so satisfied to be where I am and never think of going back to live there. Even if some aspects of my education make me behave sometimes in a different way from Indian women, I must say I am comfortable here.

laxmiHow do people generally react to your situation?

People are always very curious when they see me. From childhood I was used to people watching my family as we are foreigners. After settling here, it’s another curiosity added to this. Some people do not understand that I prefer to live here, because many are just dreaming of living in Europe. In the beginning most of the women here were not very sure if I was able to cut vegetables, prepare a cup of coffee or clean my house with a broom, and it was funny to see how amazed they were that I was able to do all of it. They all thought that foreign ladies have robots and machines to do everything!

Do you find yourself questioning some of the prevalent attitudes? What should change in our Malayali society?

I think the attitude between men and women should definitely change. We have to educate children about their anatomy and minds to make them understand how our bodies and brains work. In this way both boys and girls would respect each other a bit more and understand better. We should be less discriminatory as we are all human. Also I feel the attitude towards our Mother Earth should really change, I witness everyday people dropping their trash in the garden…something has to be done seriously about this.

What advice do you have for the next generation of Malayalis?

Please don’t abandon your cultural heritage, it’s one the most precious things this country possesses. What would be the use of becoming another Europe or America? It’s India here, so show to the world the wonders we have!

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Starlit Wedding – Diya Krishna

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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

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Onam Elegance: Decoding the Traditional and Modern Looks of M-Town Celebs

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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.

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Sarees of India : Punjab’s Phulkari

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 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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