Innholdsfortegnelse for July/August 2023 i Cosmopolitan India

There’s no escaping a buzzword, isn’t it? At one point we were all about ‘thinking outside the box’, keeping tabs on ‘big data’, or just planning how we can ‘pivot’. In a post-COVID world, where we braced for the ‘new normal’ (had to do that), the universal ‘smarketing’ trick was to introduce ‘sustainability’ at any given chance, even when there was greenwashing—well, what better way to attract people who were seriously rethinking their lifestyle choices to prevent negative environmental impact. A word that has stood the test of time on the buzzword list is ‘sisterhood’. At Cosmopolitan India, we value the power of community and sisterhood—you’ve seen that time and again, especially with our storytelling. While this is a theme that runs through all our issues, this time, we decided…

1. Your platform of choice, because obviously, is: a. TikTok (Sigh, I miss this app!). b. YouTube. c. Instagram. d. Twitter. 2. You can easily flex your epic knowledge of: a. Internet subcultures. Ask me for my piping-hot take on any viral feud. b. Really well-shot glam routines. I mean, I am not saying I can recreate them myself, but…I probably could. c. ASMR videos. They make you a calmer, better person—it is basically science. d. Celeb interview compilations. Just waiting for my own turn. 3. Which stage of a night out is peak for you? a. Making random best friends in the bathroom queue. Everyone’s a stranger until they’re not! b. Getting ready at home—picking an outfit, putting my face together, all of it. c. Is it corny to…

My relationship with my hair straighteners is the most reliable, long-term one I’ve ever had. After I got my first pair, I didn’t look back. They perfectly smoothed my candy floss-esque hair texture and helped revive limp noodle curls in a single twist. What wasn’t to love? The damage, that’s what! I was already hooked by the time I realised the havoc that heat was wreaking on my tresses, and while I’ve tried to go teetotal over the years, those ceramic plates keep calling me back. So you can imagine my scepticism when, on one evening online scroll session, I discovered the ‘heatless curl method’. Lo and behold, Gen Z were cutting out the need for heat, using the most random of objects. It was entertaining, to say the least.…

MASCARA A fail-proof formula that promises fuller, voluminous lashes with just a simple wiggle and swipe. Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara Travel Size, ₹1,150 EYE SERUM Let’s get real, our eyes definitely need some extra TLC than the rest of our face. This lightweight roll-on serum perfectly hydrates and soothes while you’re hard at work. Innisfree Green Tea Hyaluronic Acid Eye Serum, ₹1,400 HYDRATOR Get the best of both worlds with this potent gel-based blend. It penetrates deep to nourish the skin and also gives a dewy glow. Clinique Moisture Surge 100h Auto-Replenishing Hydrator, ₹1,050 EYE PATCH Had a late night? Fret not! This hydrating patch will leave you with firm and nourished under-eyes in no time. PS: Trust us, nobody at work will suspect a thing. Petitfee Gold…

1 CHILLOSOPHY by PRITHI MONGA and SILKY AHLUWALIA Just believe in the vision you have and have no regrets. All you need to do is go with the flow. At the age of 40 (that’s when we both started), we were mothers and housewives. But the idea to launch a brand was to do something for our daughters. 2 NAKHREWAALI by GURSAKHI LUGANI Start with what you are good at, not with what you love…that’s what’s going to give you that initial cushion to have financial stability, which is extremely important especially if you are a woman. If what you’re good at aligns with what you love, that’s cherry on the cake. 3 QUA by DIVYA AGARWAL The one thing I want to tell people starting their own brand is…

MEHER TALUJA, DIGITAL CREATOR “The piece I’m wearing is from a conscious fashion label named APZ by Apoorva Gupta. I love that it’s tailored to perfection and screams luxe. Being a minimalist, I like classic pieces with a unique twist, and that’s exactly what drew me towards this bold power suit in the most stunning rust colour. The fact that most of APZ’s outfits are one of a kind, crafted in limited edition styles and fabrics is what makes these pieces akin to collectibles. I, for one, make sure to add one piece to my wardrobe each season, and I’ll wear it a 100 times over yet cherish it through the years.” AHANA GHAI, WRITER “In a world where trends come and go, I have always felt that a short…

STRUT IN STYLE The hustle and bustle of a fab day in New York is captured in Michael Kors' pre-fall campaign that features stylish sets in signature black and classic white, striking an optimistic tone for almost every season. Moreover, this collection also offers ultra-chic metallic accessories and versatile arm candies in monotone shades. Here's the apt way to keep your wardrobe effortless and on trend as we transition from summer to fall. POSY POWER FOR THE WIN Designers Pankaj and Nidhi pay an ode to the kaleidoscope montage of the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany through their brand’s latest collection, Toscano. Inspired by a stunning Mediterranean sojourn, Pankaj & Nidhi’s latest offering features silhouetted blooms and hand-sewn haberdashery seen across linens, chiffons and diaphanous organzas. Designed for al-fresco dressing, this…

Cosmo India: Tell us about the sounds that are soothing to you. Harsh Varrdhan Kapoor: “The sound of waves, birds chirping, and strangely enough, even the sound of a fizzy drink being poured into a glass full of ice makes me feel calm.” CI: What are your earliest memories of junk food? HVK: “I’m big on burgers—and burgers aren’t unhealthy if made correctly. I’ve always gravitated towards home-cooked food. I remember, after school, I would look forward to coming home and eating a home-cooked meal. Comfort food, for me, includes tandoori chicken, white rice, and full-fat yoghurt, among other things.” CI: Are you a conscious eater? Or do you have one too many cheat days? HVK: “I am a conscious eater…I try to consume a lot of protein, and don’t…

Cosmo India: Tell us about the first memory of your birthday. Diipa Büller-Khosla: “The first memory is a bit hazy and I don’t remember the year, but I faintly recall celebrating it with my family in my hometown. I was so happy wearing a pink dress, and have a number of photographs from that day.” CI: What is the one thing that you focus on when celebrating milestones in your life? DBK: “The focus is always on the occasion rather than the extravagant celebrations. Because, in the end, it is all about creating beautiful memories together. And I believe in keeping it simple and meaningful. I enjoy celebrating with my family and loved ones because I am always happy around them. I involve my community of followers, too, as they…

Cosmo India: Niharika, tell us about your favourite snack. Niharika NM: “My favourite snack is the one that’s erm, not really the best for your health. I love potato chips and none of my cheat meals are proper meals…they are always snacks. It is either chips such as Lay’s or Kurkure.” CI: What is your first memory of food? NNM: “I think my first memory of food is that of mangoes; it was the first fruit my parents fed me and I have so many pictures and videos of me drinking mango juice.” CI: Are there any sounds that are soothing to you? NNM: “I never thought I’d be one of those people who listen to different sounds to doze off. However, now I cannot sleep without listening to the…

Between 6 and 24 Points Maybe…Don’t If the factors that led to your split remain present, the relationship may still not work for those exact reasons, says Stockard. Start a Notes app list of all these cons that you can look at whenever you’re tempted to backslide, hit that Block button, and focus on giving yourself the love you deserve. Between 25 and 55 Points It’s Worth Entertaining Ask yourself: Did the good times really overshadow the bad? Do I genuinely miss my ex, or do I miss being in a relationship? Can we work through what drove us apart? Stockard says this last bit is especially important because strong conflict-resolution skills are key to making it work long term. Between 56 and 78 Points Life Is Short—Try Again! Just…

Hair and Make-Up: Riya Saluja; Model: Rhea Seth Arora; Fashion Assistant: Tarangini Goel…

Try This! A few drops is all you need for a flawless finish…

“I love to cook, feed people, and entertain! Along with that, I also love to try new cuisines…so even though its a business, hospitality comes naturally to me because I enjoy it. Secretly, I would love to be a trained chef…perhaps one day, I will take that leap! But, for now, cooking is just a passion for me—my formal education was in hospitality and that is part of the skills I use to run the space. CAARA started as a catering company and we continue to run that vertical for both private and corporate catering. Later, we launched Easy Dining by CAARA, which is a food and chef service—this is for intimate gatherings where you can enjoy the food as a delivery, and with orders above 20,000 we send you…

“The kitchen is not just a place of work for me; it’s where my passion comes to life. Cooking is an integral part of who I am as a chef and restaurateur. The kitchen is my favourite part, and I cherish every moment spent there experimenting with flavours and creating delightful dishes for our guests. On a daily basis, cooking is not just a way to ensure the quality and consistency of our offerings…it also keeps me deeply connected with my culinary team, my local farmers, and the produce we use in our restaurants. Being hands-on in the kitchen allows me to stay in touch with the heart of our culinary vision—working with the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients and utilising those underrated gems that make our menus so unique. My first…

GET IT RIGHT Fun yet dreamy…that’s the memo! Let your rooms come alive with a mix of pastels that feature both dainty florals and abstract styles. Think peach, mint green, lavender, lemon—there’s a hue for every personality. Introduce earthy rugs, printed cushions, and artistic vases to dip your toes into the trend and also instantly add a playful touch to your interiors. The best part? Our selection won’t overwhelm…it will always keep things fresh and new.…

Cosmo: Tell us about the experience of working on your recent release, Jee Karda? Aashim Gulati: Jee Karda was all about good energy. This was a show where the writing was great, and the actors were equally powerful. Every person [in the cast] was in sync, and I think the energy was just right. I had a wonderful time—the director, co-actors, and team that I worked with were all on the same page. I had the freedom to portray the character just how I wanted to, and could go beyond what the role demands. In the end, it all came together beautifully. “Everybody is entitled to their own opinions; I am unbothered by them. What matters is that I am completely comfortable with the way I look.” C: You have played…

A MAJOR BONUS! Hold on…don’t pop that pimple! These lil’ cuties will help treat and clear zits quickly and effectively. PS: You’ll think about ditching your concealer. CALM YOUR ZITS Clover-shaped healing patches that can treat troubled skin and significantly zap bumps while you snooze. All thanks to a potent blend of hydrating hyaluronic and acne-busting salicylic acid. Retinol Cica Ampoule Focusing Patch, Innisfree, ₹950 for 9 CLEAR SCABBY SCARS You’ve squeezed, you’ve bled!? Well, now you need these—This cult-favourite adhesive patch also acts as a drying lotion. The purifying blend treats, soothes, and clarifies acne spots asap. Buy now, your skin will thank us later! Drying Patch, Mario Badescu, ₹700 for 6 FORGET ACNE MARKS Still fighting those pesky little acne spots? These heart-shaped stick-ons infused with tea tree…

1. THE BASICS Radiofrequency (RF) and microneedling treatments are each, on their own, great at stimulating collagen, the stuff that helps keep your skin smooth and firm. But combined into one procedure in which you get stamped with ultra-thin needles that emit RF energy? We’re talking an unmatched ability to tighten skin and minimise the appearance of acne scars and fine lines. You’ve likely already heard that this genius comes at a cost…well, two costs: The actual price tag (anywhere between ₹10,000 to ₹25,000 for one session, and most people won’t see results until after three, spaced a month apart) and the sensation of having RF-emitting needles pierce your skin. Depending on your pain tolerance and even after extensive numbing, that’s exactly as painful (or not) as it sounds. There…

NOW YOU SEE ME It’s ‘clear’, this is yet another Y2K trend that’s here to stay. What’s best is, you can be rest assured to elevate even the most basic outfits by pairing them with vinyl, plastic, or PVC accessories.…

It is time to get ‘knotty’ as fashion officially enters a flirtationship with the humble bow and all its stylish associations. Think dramatic, ultra-feminine, oversized, and even delicate…there’s a stylish knot for every IT-girl to flaunt this season. The bow aka the ultimate symbol of the girly-girl does not have to merely accentuate your pieces—its ultra-chic iterations also help channel main character energy like never before. The message on the runway is clear: Go big or go home! Designers such as Moschino, Nina Ricci, Valentino, among others, added gallant bows to tops and dresses, reinterpreting them in vivid folds to create groundbreaking looks. Lacey bow collars and pussy bows added a whimsical twist at Huishan Zhang and Bora Aksu, while others such as at Melke and Aniye Records brought about…

such a sport An observation most millennials I have spoken to have about twentysomethings is how comfortable the younger cohort is in their own skin—they come armed with confidence unlike the generations before them. It was no different with Shanaya Kapoor while on the set of Cosmo India’s July/August cover shoot—also her first-time ever as cover girl. “Can someone play Rihanna’s songs?”—was the only demand she made, and we obliged. In the hours that followed, Shanaya—she’s not even a movie old, mind you—brought forth, for want of a better word, main character energy. Later, as I sat down to interview the 23-year-old, I gauged a sense of ease that one would mostly correlate with the concept of ‘older and wiser’. Here’s a girl who is self-assured (credits to her Scorpio…

Cosmo India: Ali, tell us about the sounds that have a soothing effect on you… Ali Fazal: “The crunch of a Ferrero Rocher chocolate, the sound of my breath when I meditate, the crackling noise of [tearing] paper, my face against the pillow, and the sarota [betel nut cutter] in my grandmother’s hands cutting the dali [nut] for paan [betel leaves].” CI: Do you enjoy ramen? AF: “I love ramen. However, if I am craving for something at midnight, I’d turn to fruits or bread.” CI: And do you ever cook at home? AF: “On the days I am not working, I enjoy cooking. The kitchen is my lab, and I often try my hand at different cuisines.” CI: What does date night look like for you and Richa? AF:…

Cosmo India: How do you and your husband like to spend time together? Porus Vimadalal: “Prayag and I prioritise spending time together throughout the day by engaging in numerous shared activities. Like, exercising together feels invigorating to both of us and when we’re at home, I eagerly look forward to sipping my afternoon tea with him…That’s a ritual we practice every day. Prayag and I have also established a weekend tradition of enjoying a cozy dinner and movie night at home.” CI: What do you enjoy doing when you are free? PV: “I enjoy taking care of and nurturing my plants because it makes me happy and offers a sense of fulfillment as I watch them grow and flourish. And since I am someone who is deeply fascinated by the…

Cosmo India: Shibani, tell us about a beauty trend that needs to die… Shibani Akhtar: “Honestly, the heavy, caked make-up look needs to go… People become unrecognisable [laughs]. Super-hydrated skin is the perfect make-up prep.” C: And the three make-up products you cannot live without? SA: “My Gucci bronzer, Charlotte Tilbury lip liner, and Pat McGrath highlighter.” C: What sounds are soothing to you? SA: “The sound of the ocean, cooking sounds such as sizzling, searing, and sputtering, and the crackling of wood in the fireplace.” C: And what kind of videos are you watching on YouTube these days? SA: “I love watching fitness videos, and lately, I’ve been watching a lot of cooking videos as well…even though I don’t cook at all [laughs].” I have come to realise that…

The wet-and-wild hookup in the ocean/pool/hot tub fantasy is a mainstay for a reason, but the often uncomfortable realities of water-based banging have left it with a reputation for being one of those better-in-your-mind sex things. To be fair, there’s a lot working against it. Water has a tricky way of washing away your body’s natural lubrication, and an insufficiently-lubed situation can lead to pain or vaginal or anal microtears (yikes). Worse yet, any bacteria lurking beneath the water’s surface is basically an infection waiting to happen, explains sex coach Lucy Rowett. But fear not. If an aquatic sex sesh is a must-hit bucket list item for you, there are ways to turn this good-in-theory scenario into a very-hot-in-reality sexperience. The trick is leaning into the foreplay of it all…

Fizzy water has long been heralded as a healthy drink choice. One to turn to once you’ve finally weaned yourself off that hardcore Diet Coke addiction. Or when you’re trying to keep hydrated but are getting bored AF with plain old tap water. It is water after all… It might be fizzy, but it’s still water, right? SO, IS SPARKLING WATER HEALTHY? Fizzy drinks are mainly considered unhealthy because of their sugar content. But researchers from Palestine’s Birzeit University wanted to find out whether it was actually due to the gasses in the drink rather than the sugar. In the study, they gave rats tap water, flat water, ordinary soda, and diet sugar-free soda. The scientists, who published their study in the journal Obesity Research and Clinical Practice, found that…

Q My curls feel dry, frizzy and lifeless. How do I enhance them without using excessive heat or weighing them down? A: The key to having curls that are full of life is to give them just enough hydration and TLC. Putting in more curl cream or gel into your hair or washing your hair very often will only weigh your curls down, which in turn will lead you to use excessive heat to achieve the look you want. What you need is a routine. Start by washing your hair no more than once or twice a week. Then, on damp and conditioned hair, apply two to four pumps of curl cream. It can be adjusted based on how much your hair needs. Use the Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream, which…

“Subko Cafe is more than just a coffee shop—its name, derived from ‘Subcontinent’, also means ‘for all’ in Hindi, and we reflect its mission to bring the flavours and essence of the region to coffee lovers worldwide. Food holds a special place in the heart of the experience. The earliest memories of food that inspired the cafe’s exotic cuisine stem from my mother’s kitchen, the aroma of her fragrant dal and the flavours of her chicken haleem serve as the foundation for one of our Subko recipes too. I recall my most memorable sip of coffee at Blue Bottle Coffee in California. This encounter with specialty coffee sparked an infatuation with coffee culture, inspiring me to bring a similar experience back to India. At the core of Subko Cafe, we…

It’s time to turn to the heavens and indulge in some star gazing! Leo 23.07–22.08 The tail end of Cancer season is, as always, a real bummer. But with Mercury entering your sign (it happened on July 11), it might feel like you are waking up. Now that Leo season has arrived, it’s all about you. Don’t count on finding a birthday boo though, because it is also Venus Retrograde. (Sorry!) Virgo 23.08–22.09 Wow, you’re somehow becoming a social butterfly? Send a thank you card to Cancer season and do your best to embrace your outgoing side. Especially bc it won’t last forever: Leo season has brought people you want to avoid (romantic, platonic, and work-related exes) back around. Libra 23.09–22.10 Right now, you’re living in the spotlight, which is…

THE SKINCARE ANSWER BOOK BY JAISHREE SHARAD Baffled when it comes to choosing the right moisturiser (because all of them claim to be good)? Or confused about the products to incorporate in your skincare routine? Fret not! This jargon-free read by celebrity dermatologist, Dr Jaishree Sharad is a one-point contact whenever your skin’s under any kind of stress. What’s best!? Hyperpigmentation, sun-allergies, rosacea, eczema, and other skin infections—she’s covered it all! THE PERFUMIST OF PARIS BY ALKA JOSHI Joshi’s final installment of The Jaipur Trilogy is unputdownable as it narrates the story of Radha, who grieves for the baby she gave up years ago. Now married with two children, she gets an opportunity to work for a master perfumer. For her first major project, Radha travels to India. She’s on…

DRAMA GUARANTEED Who can deny the allure of a good blush moment? The latest operatic blush, inspired by the exaggerated cosmetics of Chinese opera, is definitely worth a try. Whether it is the Giorgio Armani-inspired flush that extends beyond your cheekbones and onto your eyes and brow bones, the uplifted Marissa Wilson look that takes the hue all the way to the temple, or Sarawong’s more burnt look that highlights the under-eye and cheekbones. Still looking for that perfect blush? We recommend the newest Rare Beauty collection, Huda Beauty, even Two Faced. BETTER TOGETHER We’re always onboard a good blend of skincare meets make-up. Add to it a range that offers a quick, easy routine and we are jumping at it. Bindt Beauty’s Essentials Kit—this handy mix of concealer, tint,…

Bare All, E’rything Sexy? Risqué? Let’s just say these are both fail-safe options. Get Low Grown-up shorts in knee-grazing hemlines are the need of the hour especially for those craving for an eternal summer vibe. Peek-A-Boo! Leave little to the imagination as you flaunt daring keyhole-cutouts or the midriff-flossing one. We say this season is all about tastefully showing that sliver of skin.…

SANAH MALHOTRA, 34 “I had picked up this pastel floral dress from a boutique shop in Milan. This time, I’ve teamed up the number with striking pink heels from Zara and a vibrant green Bottega Veneta Bag—it makes the look more fun and playful.” CHATANYA KUMAR, 22 “I have paired a thrifted wide-leg denim jeans with a ribbed crop top. The off-white blazer enhances the classic whites and blue hues of the denim as well as the top.” RASHMI CHAWLA, 24 “The floral vest is reminiscent of my childhood memories as I picture my grandmother knitting floral motifs. The look is super-relaxed; it is a mix of modern and cottage core.” ISHITA CHOPRAA, 24 “This outfit exudes confidence and sophistication, while also adding a playful twist to the classic formal…

Cosmo India: Do you believe in astrology? Nargis Fakhri: “Back in the day, when I had an astrologer read my birth chart, he was fairly accurate about a few of my personality traits during my childhood and young adult years. I do believe in astrology; astrology gives you a time frame for what you should be doing at certain points in your life, based on planetary positions and whatnot.” CI: And has any astrological prediction about your life come true? NF: “While I thoroughly enjoy tarot card readings—and even possess my own set of cards—no particular prediction has actually come true.” CI: Any particular videos that you are watching on YouTube these days? NF: “I love watching educational videos—doctors discussing the latest discoveries in the medical field, psychology and human…

Cosmo India: Richa, what do you crave when you are in the mood to binge? When I am trying to doze off, a low humming sound is calming. Richa Chadha: “I enjoy ramen… but I can’t eat it very often, because I am gluten intolerant. But I do indulge myself whenever I am on vacation. I prefer veggie ramen with loads of mushrooms, bamboo shoots, water chestnuts, and a smoky, yuzu-ish broth.” CI: Who is the better cook between Ali and you? RC: “I cook Indian cuisine well, and Ali has aced pasta, lasagna, baked, and Lucknowi food. He also whips up a nice salad. As for who’s better—you’d have to have a meal with us to decide [laughs].” CI: What sounds are soothing to you? RC: “When I am…

Cosmo India: What do you like the most about spending time with Porus? Prayag Menon: “Every moment we spend together is truly remarkable and fulfilling whether it is a minute domestic chore or simple act of sharing a cup of tea. The moments we share are precious and it is the quality of these shared experiences that strengthens our bond and truly makes each day extraordinary.” CI: Tell us about your favourite hobbies. I actually like the tumbling sounds of the washing machine. PM: “I love educating myself on various topics and I particularly enjoy reading articles on genetic testing and historical features. I even like going through Reddit gossip threads as I binge-eat in the comfort of my bed. Lastly, I love to plan an adventurous itinerary for us;…

PINK & GREEN… WHY NOT We never thought we’d be in awe of this combination so much, but TBH we just can’t get enough of this striking look. Want to be a head-turner in every party you attend? This is the make-up trend to try. MAXIMALISM RETURNS If you want to copy this glow make-up, start by applying a luminous base. Then, use a white pencil and make dots on the upper lash line (they should get smaller as they get closer to the inner eye area). A gloss of your favourite colour will be the icing on the cake. THE TWO-TONE LOOK THAT NOBODY EXPECTS Create a perfect canvas by applying a light foundation to the forehead, cheekbones and chin. When you have it, move on to the lashes:…

“My connection with Burma began right from childhood—my mother and her family grew up in the country. She then moved to India after her marriage, but her Burmese roots had a great influence on me. I remember her cooking Burmese food for us at home, and it was an integral part of my childhood. We had a separate pantry filled with Burmese ingredients, and friends and family would drop by for Burmese meals prepared by my mother. All of this inspired me to delve deeper into Burma’s culture and culinary landscape. In 2011, I travelled to Burma along with head chef Ansab Khan to explore the idea of a specialty restaurant. While travelling across Burma, it is common to come across a wide range of vegetarian dishes. We recognised the…

“My earliest memory of food is one where my grandmother used to make this Kashmiri dish called Rishta Kofta. While ours is a typical Punjabi household, this dish literally would take her an entire day to prepare; so she would start preparing a day earlier and would usually make it for lunch as it’s heavy. It was her own version and had nothing to do with authenticity. My first restaurant was Punjab Grill in Ambience Mall, Gurugram. It was a runaway hit…the first two days were packed—my team and I were not used to this level of crowd! That restaurant became a phenomenon and we built the brand over time. I eventually sold the Punjab Grill brand in 2012, but it was a great experience. I still remember waking up…