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THE ELECTIC INSTRUMENTS

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Looking for a new sound, we caught up with four musicians who have stayed true to their music with unique,eclectic instruments

Ajiesh Anto ollukkaran
Sigtar

Ajiesh anto fwd life

‘Addicted to music’ would seem like a lousy adjective while describing Ajiesh Anto Ollukkaran. A man so passionate about his instruments and the whole idea of being a performer, he went to the height of designing the prop of his dreams. A ‘sigtar’, as he calls it, is a compact and graceful combination of a traditional sitar and a modern guitar. Both are string instruments, one is common in Hindustani performances while the other one in western music. Fascinated by live stage performances, Ajiesh thought of ways to make his sitar more crowd-friendly, replacing its base with that of a guitar. He styled it similar to an electronic guitar, leaving the sitar’s fret board untouched. His interest in fusion music is what drove him to this adventure five years back. But when Ajiesh plays the sigtar, he seems like a natural, strumming his fingers over the strings and in complete sync with his best friend, his music and his instrument.

 

Munna (Atul) P M
Hang Drum/Handpan

Munna athul fwd life

Set against a dilapidated wall, the Hang pan rested on a bench. As the sun crept in, you could see the fingerprints’ impression left behind on the steel drum. While he played, there was a certain lightness about Munna, his fingers riding over the percussion effortlessly. The day was mellowed by the hang drum’s pleasant overtones that sounded like calm rain that silenced the boisterous summer.Munna’s tryst with the Hang drum, a hand-crafted drum-like instrument, was during a performance by PANart in Switzerland. Percussions weren’t alien to him, having been disciplined with tabla for 10 years. He practiced on the Hang drum and three years ago he got a customised drum crafted in Italy. The instrument looks unrefined but its humble appearance makes the music intimate. His palms pattered across the hangpan’s tone circle that’s laid out in a cross pattern, that leads to a harmony of low and high overtones. Dreaming of playing in the Himalayas, Munna wants to experiment using the hangpan with Indian raagas. For an instrument commonly played in Europe, he says that adding a traditional Keralite touch is refreshing, and can’t wait to fuse its sound with the voice of musicians too. Yet when asked what kept him centred, he said, “It is a point where you feel all the reincarnated souls are finally together.”

 

Nithin Menon
Slap-top

Nithin menon fwd life

Nithin Menon has been in love with percussion for as long as he can remember. He has mastered the art of subtle sounds, very effortlessly creating mindful tones using between six and eight instruments. His favourite is the slap-top – a seemingly simple unit not much heard of.Percussion is an unusual yet interesting stream of music. The sounds are elusive and surreal and the technique varies from person to person. Nithin speaks of his marvel for the beats with the enthusiasm of a child. “I was a noisy kid. I used to tap on every bench, desk and chair I could find”. He discovered the slaptop – an instrument quite similar to the Cajon, a common Peruvian percussion box while researching for instruments. The unit was purchased and shipped from the US, and has since been inseparable from him. “When I take the slap-top out, it gets plenty of attention. People think they can play it because it looks so simple.”Sounding strangely familiar to a traditional chenda or the modern drumset, the base of a slap-top is euphoric to the ears. Skimming across its flat surface, his eyes shut, Nithin arouses an array of resonance, giving out a guileless grin every now and then. The room would groove to his impressions, as his instrument and he
swoon to its sounds as a single unit. Nithin, an alumni of Swarabhoomi Academy of Music, Chennai, was a percussionist with the band, Masala Coffee, and occasionally performs with independent musicians.

 

Rejoy Jesudas
Didgeridoo

Rejoy jesudas fwd life

The room reverberated with nocturnal sounds that break the silence of sleeping forests. He takes in a deep breath, and his lips vibrate to produce an eerily calm drone-like sound. Sounding similar to the raucous laughter of the kookaburra – an indigenous Australian bird, Renoy’s discovery of the digeridoo takes flight with a story of birds; for his inspiration lies in the lap of nature.Eight years ago, while trekking in the undisturbed hills of Manali, he was
drawn by the rhythms that mimicked the surroundings. Making his way through a maze of trees, he saw an Aboriginal Australian resting against a tree playing a digeridoo. That moment of awe fleeted gracefully as the flutter of birds who were drawn to the music and ever since then, he knew that he was going to have a long meaningful relationship with this instrument. He finally had a real device that made real music, unlike how he had been humouring himself until then by playing around with pipes of all sorts that were left around in his house. “The
hollowness captured the most beautiful thing in life – the air we breathe in.” His didgeridoo was carved in Uttarakhand and is designed with intricate Aboriginal dot art. Made from eucalyptus trees hollowed out by termites, the instrument comes to shape out of that emptiness. The symbolism of emptiness is where he finds the inspiration to create sound music for a holistic experience. He now engages in music therapy with a didgeridoo, which carries him to another world.

 

Words by Atheena Wilson and Likhitha P. Nair     Photographs by Aghil Menon and Joby Eldho

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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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