Cover Story
Street Savvy – Aparna Balamurali
From the noisy jhankar to the elegant pavements, Aparna Balamurali hit the streets of filmdom with panache
Revving with a certain vibrato, the engine warmed up. She got into the car which made its way under the watch of the glum coal sky. She peered outside the roads that lend a view to the vast sea. Riding along its endlessness, she spotted a few buildings in Willingdon Island, speckled with the early morning routine lights. With a few turns and steering, they made it on time.
After much ado, the sun beautifully rose and she landed at the jhankar. In contrast to the drive, the day was illustrious; the sun shone its few rays. She stood on the barge in rapt attention. Among the scrum, she listened to the multitude of sounds, a cacophony of the morning routine rituals. But for a moment, time froze. Fishermen forgot their nets, children turned away from their lessons, passersby stopped to stare. The silence that prevailed, had all gazes upon her. It was the first photograph of the day, and that was just this start.
There is a first time for everything, from her auditions to wearing ‘lipnotising’ blue lipstick. Aparna Balamurali made her first breakthrough with her performance as Jincy, in the recent movie ‘Maheshinte Prathikaram.’
Hailing from a family of arts in Thrissur, Aparna has had lived in a creative air all her life. Her father, Bala Murali is a music director and her mother is an advocate, and a singer. So stumbling into the world of movies was not surprising. Although she’s known for her flair for music and dance, she has been rather coy about them. However, she has always been inquisitive about the art form of acting, and the rest is history. Although, when she is not acting, she pursues a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture from the Global Institute in Palakkad. Aparna Balamurali believes she is a novice, but speaks confidently and maturely abouther current profession. “A director and an actor should share a great rapport. Accept what the directors say, they have a vision for a character on how he or she has to be. The thing an actor must look into is emoting in various ways and giving choices so the director can choose what’s best for him or her. In this movie, I studied the interaction between director Dileesh Pothan and the lead actor Fahadh Faasil and how they interchanged comments. I learned this from my father, especially seeing him while at
work. Many singers have approached him, wanting to sing in a manner they chose. But my father would draw out a plan on how he wanted them to sing. I believe with his guidance helped them adapt to the song the way my father
weaved the notes.”
Some Place Else
For the next shot, we moved to a boutique hotel situated at Mattencherry, Fragrant Nature. Aparna commented how she loved the energyof the city with its varying sleepiness and the rustic details that is nestled among handsome buildings. She was in awe of the yellow baroque façade of the hotel, and its prominent Cuban touch with the interior colours and marbled floors.
Sitting on a yellow armchair and looking up towards the open sky, she mused: “ Architecture has something about everything.” Although poles apart, she finds a strong connection between acting and architecture. “I believe everything in art is interconnected. It is not a burden to pursue two of my greatest passions. I can see architecture in films and films in architecture; for all I know they go hand in hand.” Her next change, was a transatlantic transfer from sultry Cuba to the sun-dappled cobbled streets of Stockholm, in the hotel.
A View Through the Lens
Her tryst with the camera is in its infancy but she was a natural in front of the lens. She exhibited no air of nervousness. While ‘Maheshinte Prathikaram’ was her first movie in a leading role, she has appeared in the 2015 comedy-thriller ‘Oru Second Class Yatra’ which also featured singer and actor Vineeth Srinivasan and a short film ‘Innalaye Thedi.’ A shower of auditions followed her first assignments.
Aparna the architect student, and Jimcy, her character in ‘Maheshinte Prathikaram’. “It was funny to have some associations, but my character made me realise there are so many other roles to pursue.” Coincidently, in the movie, Jimcy walks into a photostudio to have her photograph taken so she could come on the cover of a leading magazine. And here she is, gracing our cover this issue! We asked her what she felt was the most memorable moment of this photoshoot, and her answer was quick, “The unsusal lipstick was the highlight of the day.” While she allures focus and maturity while taking a shot, there are occasions when she lightens up and breaks into a giggle. Yet another similarity with Jimcy, who gets snapped without her knowledge by photographer Mahesh.
In the souk background she looked fearless with a French braid, parted on both sides and jungle green eye shadow… as if lost in a map. The reel moment almost seemed real. Aparna’s performance has been well-received by both audience and experts in the industry. Experts have noted that her acting appeared ‘effortless’. She has accepted these praises and compliments gracefully, while remaining grounded. “I had no tensions portraying this role. I never expected the movie to be such a huge hit, though. Going ahead, I plan to continue being conscious about the roles and scripts I choose.”
Looking Ahead
Not very swayed towards the glamorous side of filmdom, shementioned that actors were different on screen, from what they are in person. “Earlier I watched so many movies passively but now I started watching them again, and have started to analyse them.” Actors like Manju Warrier and Rima Kallingal have inspired her with their choice of roles and the confidence to emote powerful characters. “I also loved Paravathy’s transformation, it made me realise acting is something you learn intensely and is not always just an innate skill.”
On that note, it is a pack-up. Aparna Balamurali gears up to face the industry headstrong, and not take it up as just another glossy extra curricular activity. “There are so many people who want to act and now I have a chance, so I should not deny it. I feel it’s great I get to pursue multiple disciplines – from architecture to acting. I am in a state to learn and explore more and more.” So saying, she took one last sip of her watermelon juice, and went off for her next shot with zest. Watch out for this little firefly.
Model: Aparna Balamurali
Photographer: Jinson Abraham
Styling: Lakshmi Babu
Makeup & Hair Styling: Blessy Mary Chacko
Costumes: Lulu Fashion Store
Retouch: Jemini Ghosh
Location: Fragrant Nature, Mattancherry
Production: FWD Media
Special Thanks: Metro, Lulu Mall, Kochi
Words : Atheena Wilson
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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