People
Stitching His Way to Success
Costume designer Mashar Hamsa talks to us about his work in his upcoming film Parava
Words: Suhas K.M Compiled by: Shilpa Ann Stanley Featured image source: Parava, Mashar Hamsa
How did you prepare for the movie Parava?
Soubin ikka, who is the director of Parava, had approached me when he was conceptualising the film. He had mentioned that the film is very realistic and is based in Mattancherry. He was very particular about the costumes. After listening to him, I understood that this would be the perfect project for me to exhibit my talent, and we created the mood board for the looks of each of the characters. During the pre-production stage, I was with them there in Mattancherry for a couple of months for further research.
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What was the research all about?
Mattancherry is a very colourful place. You can find people of all ages and in different, colourful clothes. The stitching pattern in their attires is also entirely different. Soubin and the cinematographer Littil, had mentioned that the film would be very colourful and they needed it to reflect in the costumes as well. For this, we decided to reach out to the native people who were around the same age as the characters in the film. We then asked them for the clothes that they wore to use in the film, and in return gave them new clothes. This was done to keep the realistic elements in the costumes of the actors.
Talking about Dulquer, his look in this movie is entirely different from the rest of his films. He fits the look of a typical Mattanchery guy. Was he comfortable in that?
Soubin had already mentioned that he need Dulquer as a typical Mattanchery guy in this movie. I have worked with DQ earlier, so we have a good rapport while working together. It was Soubin, the makeup man, and I who put together the look for DQ, who was satisfied with the appearance created for him.
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You have been with the team for nine months for this movie. Did you miss out on any other offer during this time?
Yes. I got almost four offers during this time, but I have no regrets as I really enjoyed working for Parava. I had a lot of confidence in this project. In fact, it was very challenging for me in all senses as I also worked as Asst Director for this film.
How did your first movie Neelakasham Pachakadal Chuvanna Bhoomi happen to you? Can you share your experience about the movie?
I have done a few ads with Sameer Thahir, during which I conveyed to him about my desire to work for a movie. So, when he decided upon doing this movie, he approached me. Since it’s my first movie, I was really tense, but he instilled a lot of confidence in me and guided me throughout. He taught me the nuances of filmmaking – the lights, camera, art direction, costumes. If I’ve made a career in movies it is only because of my mentor Sameer ikka.
Kammattipaadam has been a breakthrough for you in your movie career. The movie is set in differing time periods. What was the brief you received from its director Rajeev Ravi?
I had to really work hard for Kammattipaadam. As the movie beings from the 1980s, we had to figure out what people in Cochin wore during that time. In our research, we found that what people actually wore was different from what is seen in the films of that era. So Rajeev ettan advised that we go through the wedding albums of people in that decade. It was very hard to find such original costumes, so we had to stitch them up.
Apart from a costume designer, you are also a stylist. Whom do you wish to style?
I have styled Soubin and Vinayakan. I would like to style Dulquer.
What made you choose costume designing as a career?
My father is a tailor. From childhood, I had a craze for stitching and loved colourful clothes. After my higher secondary I joined another course, but that was not my area of interest. Later, I chose fashion designing. I have done more than 100 advertisements. I was thus able to enter the film industry.
Is there any particular director you wish to work with?
I wish to work again with the same teams of Sameer Thahir, Soubin, Rajeev Ravi, and Anwar Rasheed.
What are your future projects and plans?
I have completed Anil C Radhakrishna Menon sir’s ‘Diwanji Moola Grand Prix. Currently, I am working on Anwar ikka’s project, called Trance starring Fahadh Faasil. It is a big budget film and is quite challenging.
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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