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Vimala Raman – On the Comeback Trail

As actress Vimala Raman makes a foray back into the Malayalam film industry after a hiatus, we catch up with her to learn about her journey from Down Under to the God’s Own Country.

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Vimala Raman FWD Life

As actress Vimala Raman makes a foray back into the Malayalam film industry after a hiatus, we catch up with her to learn about her journey from Down Under to the God’s Own Country.

On the bay at The Waterfront Granary Museum Hotel in Mattancherry, Kochi, we met Vimala Raman sitting cross-legged and smiling, with no care in the world for the notorious heat waves this summer. Her smile accentuated her features, enhancing her chiselled cheeks and metalpiercing sharpness of her eyes.

Vimala Raman FWD Life Cover Photo1

Vimala Raman’s tone was as pleasant as her appearance, letting the interview fall into a relaxed and friendly chit-chat mood. Thus began the story of a young girl of Indian origin, and IT degree holder from Australia, landing in Chennai with the goal of becoming an actress.

How did cinema happen? What fuelled your interest in acting?

People have suspected that I always wanted to be an actress because I was involved with so many activities outside the classroom, during my school days Australia. I started learning Bharatnatyam when I was four, and also carnatic music and was a part of my school choir too, for six years. I took an interest in theatre as well. I was always involved in extracurricular activities but it was never a conscious path that I took towards cinema.

Usually, Indians who are born and/or raised abroad receive a cultural shock on their return to the country. Did you face any?

Fortunately, I had parents who made it a point to inculcate a good deal of Indian culture and values in us even as we grew up in Australia. From a young age, I understood what it meant to be an Indian. And moreover, we watched many Indian movies, mostly Tamil, regularly. Even as a child, I could converse fluently in both Tamil and Kannada. So you could say that I had the best of both worlds. But yes, moving to India was no cakewalk. For someone who had spent all her time Down Under, in Sydney, I faced some problems despite that. To know it is one thing and to live it as your daily reality is another thing, I soon discovered. But I still have my connections to the East to be thankful for, and not be shocked, with India. Hence, I didn’t at any point find it necessary to change myself dramatically to be comfortable in India; and that I think was an achievement in itself.

Vimala Raman FWD Life Cover Photo1

And, was there anything about India that was pleasantly surprising?

India is seen as chaotic and disorganised, yet in some strange way it is synchronised and has its balance. Here, I see everyone move in cooperation with each other, consciously or inadvertently. I think that talks a lot about the Indian culture as well. A simple example is traffic here, we Indians go through all the toughness, all the congestion of it, yet move forward. This is simple yet symbolic.

You shifted not just continents, but also your profession. How did that feel?

Vimala Raman FWD Life Cover Photo1

From being an IT graduate and working in Australia, to becoming an actress and living in India, it was a major transition. Honestly, the first year and a half was painful. It took me a while to get used to a lot of things, especially the way the industry works. It took me some time to learn and absorb a few things here. But once done, it changed my mindset and life became a lot easier.

What’s your opinion about social media as a platform for celebrity branding?

I am not too active in social media. But honestly, I think there is nothing wrong with using social media as a public relations tool. And it’s not just actors or artists, everyone on a social network is propagating and promoting themselves on a daily basis. It could be the most mundane of things like ‘I had that for lunch’, but the idea is always about being visible or relevant. And I don’t see any harm in it. In this highly competitive world, with billions of people, social media is a great platform to be heard and seen.

Vimala Raman FWD Life Cover Photo1

Tell us about your character in your next movie Oppam? Is there anything that determines your choice in movies in general?

I think if you look at my career graph, you notice that I have tried to stay away from being stereotyped as much as possible. I have always wanted to try different genres of acting, with different plots. And I have been successful there to some extent, having done horror, thrillers and mystery. I like to have variety happening and the truth is that commercial masala also lends some variety.

I have been wanting to get back into Malayalam cinema after a long gap. So when Oppam came along, I grabbed it with both hands. Apart from it being a Priyadarshan movie, the subject was very compelling too. I am sure that
it will have the audience at the edge of their seats and I am totally excited about it.

What differences have you observed between film industries of the south, and what do you like about each?

Indian artists are at an advantage that way, I believe, as we have the chance to work in so many industries with so many great actors, directors and technicians in each of them. I am lucky to have been able to work in six different industries. Working in an industry is also about the learning the culture of that place. When I play a role in a Malayalam movie, I know what it feels to be a Malayali. Working on the sets of a Malayalam movie is a unique experience as you spend more time on the sets interacting, having fun with your co-artists and technicians, unlike in the other industries where you spend more time within the confines of your caravan. But like I said, every industry has its own very distinct character and is special for that

Vimala Raman FWD Life Cover Photo1

What is your fashion mantra?

Fashion and I have always got along really well, ever since I was young. As long as I can remember, I have always been fussy about how I looked and what I wore. Even if it was just my mom’s old salwar, I was particular that it looked good on me. My fashion statement would be class and elegance, with a touch of sportiness. These days, off-screen I am a jeans and t-shirt person with occasional dresses and jackets. To me, fashion is not just about the clothes but about the person as a package. It doesn’t have to be a million dollar dress, if you know how to carry it off, even a ten dollar dress can look like a million bucks. It may sound clichéd, but it finally boils down to feeling comfortable and confident.

Vimala Raman FWD Life Cover Photo1

Do you like travelling? Can you share with us what you love doing or the places you love travelling to?

Yes, I love travelling. Every year I try to visit at least one new country. And I have been doing it even if it’s in between the shoots because travelling has taught me many things. When you travel you pick up so many things and are exposed to the world. You start realising that there could be more to life, than what you see with your limited perception.

Model:Vimala Raman
Child Models: Annah and Zoya
Photographer: Jinson Abraham
Styling: Lakshmi Babu
Makeup & Hair Styling: Shalu George
Costumes: Lulu Fashion Store
Retouch: Jemini Ghosh
Location: The Waterfront Granary Museum Hotel, Mattancherry
Production: FWD Media
Special Thanks: Metro and Addons, LuLu Mall, Kochi

Behind the scene Video : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwDhxgqtY0g


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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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