Innholdsfortegnelse for August 2022 i Harper's Bazaar India

The human body, in all its functions, is one of the most complex and fascinating forms in nature. A wonderland. And yet, in everyday narratives and mainstream culture, the body is largely viewed through the paltry lens of vanity. We see it as a clothes horse, to decorate with clothes. We put our body on diets, so it can meet societal expectations. We sexualise, adorn, fix, and compare our anatomy, sometimes forgetting that essentially, it is a valuable holder of physical power; a tool for us to survive and thrive and interpret the wonders of our world. In the wise words of authors Dr Lexie Kite and Dr Lindsay Kite, “Your body is an instrument, not an ornament”. It is a celebration of the body that forms Bazaar India’s theme…

You’d be well within your right to make a wish upon the new Gucci Attache bag, for once the hooks have been secured at the edges, the altogether new shape resembles a fortune cookie that could just spell your style destiny. It’s a blast from the past, albeit with a fresh take on the future. For the latest It-bag to enter the Gucci universe, the Attache, finds its roots in the free spirit of the ’70s—a decade that has manifested time and again in Gucci’s Creative Director, Alessandro Michele’s style board. The bag is named after the French word for “hook”, and once you play with its versatile shape, you’ll see why. A metal ‘G’ opens and closes its silhouette, which can be completed with interchangeable straps, in leather or…

Embrace a healthy, competitive spirit…

A mountain of chopped wood forms the backdrop to cement homes with tiny windows, and a crow makes its way to work… The artworks of two celebrated artists—Gigi Scaria and Jagannath Panda—address the perils of urbanisation in the second part of a show titled ‘When The Other Stares Back’ at KAEE Contemporary in Kolkata. While Jagannath’s works play with anthropomorphic figures, Gigi makes a pressing case for the need to stop destroying the Earth’s resources, via architectural renderings. The message that these works convey has never been more urgent. When The Other Stares Back is on view at Kaee Contemporary, Kolkata till September 30…

The latest to join the conversation on body positivity are candles that celebrate the glory of the human body, in every shape and from all angles. From the bosom to the derrière, most parts of the anatomy have been transformed into wax and soy candles that double up as artworks in front of the right audience. Some pieces even question ‘perfect’ beauty standards with torsos and hips that flaunt curves. Mostly in nude tones, these creations shine the light on what it means to be ‘flawless’, and just how quickly that concept can melt away.…

The power of nomenclature is such that it can create an altogether new identity… Such is the distinction that emerged between the Indian Modernists and Contemporaries—in art—at the turn of the millennium, which is being showcased in a special exhibit in Mumbai titled The First Contemporaries. Speaking with Bazaar India, the gallery’s Director, Puneet Shah, shares, “This show includes the works of the early Contemporaries who were practising between the years 2000 and 2010. They are representative of that time, each one creating path-breaking works exclusive to their style.” The roster of names includes Jitish Kallat, Raqib Shaw, Reena Kallat, Jagannath Panda, TV Santhosh, and Utkarsh Makwana, among others. Visit this show to appreciate the departure in visual narrative and use of mediums—an education in changing perspectives and expressions. On…

When the 11.1-centimetre-tall figurine of a faceless woman with large breasts and an out-of-shape belly was discovered in Willendorf, Austria, in 1908, the question begged to be asked—why did Paleolithic Europeans create this statuette 25,000 years ago? Some scholars associated the Venus of Willendorf, as she was christened, with the goddess of fertility…a symbol of motherhood, abundance, and all things good, as portrayed with the exaggerated sexual features. Other scholars have associated her with ideas of the Mother Goddess, a good-luck totem, and even an aphrodisiac. Speculations are rife and theories abound, but one thing remains: the female body has always been worshipped, throughout the centuries, and it always will be, in the ages to come.…

She had barely finished her second film when a media review was released, declaring Huma Qureshi five kilos too heavy to become a mainstream heroine. “That really hurt. To do that to someone who is just starting out in the business…is it right? Is it good? Is it ethical? I don’t think so,” questions the Gangs of Wasseypur actor. Cut to a decade since then, and Huma’s clearly having the last laugh as she awaits the release of Double XL, a social comedy film with Sonakshi Sinha that questions body and beauty stereotypes, which required her to gain 20 kilos (“I had to eat everything in sight, it was the best prep ever!”), and also marks her debut as a producer. Huma still has had to hear a lot of…

Make-up and Hair: Rakshanda Irani. Make-up Assistant: Jennifer Nazareth. Model: TJ Bhanu. Fashion Assistants: Shubham Jawanjal and Tanya Sachdeva. Production: Studio Gaaba. Location: The Postcard Hideaway, Netravali, Goa.…

The notions of good looks have changed so many times over the centuries, its transience has made one thing clear: beauty lies entirely in our perceptions. And Harper’s Bazaar has always championed the lasting relationship we forge with ourselves, through an appreciation of ourselves. The beauty is that each time someone accepts themselves, they make way for others to do the same. It’s much like the butterfly effect…a concept evident in one of the first coloured covers of the magazine, photographed by Herbert Matter and illustrated by Art Director Alexey Brodovitch. As the model looks through the wing of the insect, she reminds us to look at ourselves, and life, as a work of art.…

MALAVIKA MOHANAN Malavika is an actor who was born in Kerala and brought up in Mumbai. Her debut was marked by the Malayalam film Pattam Pole in 2013, and she gained recognition for her role in Beyond the Clouds. In The Power Of Female Form, the actor shares her views on the obsession that South Indian films have with a woman’s navel. She shares, “Discussing the objectification of women in Indian cinema made for a very stimulating conversation and I’m glad we are talking about this.” MANASI SAWANT Manasi is a Mumbai-based photographer, who has worked with leading fashion magazines, luxury brands, and commercial advertisements for leading beauty and fashion brands. For the latest issue of Bazaar India, Manasi captures digital covergirl and actor Radhika Apte in A Bright Future.…

How do you make an iconic pair of shoes? Ask Pierre Hardy, the man behind the classic Hermès Oran Sandals he created back in 1997, which continue to capture the imagination of luxury across the globe (“I thought about creating a non-shoe or as little a shoe as possible, and looked at documents about the women of the Ndebele tribe, who paint their houses… It became the success story we all know 25 years later,” Pierre tells Bazaar India). But the triumph doesn’t end there. Red carpets have been rife for decades with some of his most successful creations, and there are heels featuring gold, stones, and diamonds [for the Hermès 2019 theme of the Year of the Dream] and designs that could be compared to works of art. A…

While the business world has been making great strides towards gender equality and women empowerment, the ratio of male bosses versus female continues to be appallingly skewed against the latter. And India, unfortunately, fares abysmally-low on the list—with one of the lowest female labour force participation rates, globally. In 2020, only around 6 percent of companies on the Fortune India 500 list were managed by women. Just 29 had women in executive roles. It’s true that a lot of social factors contribute to the figures. Multiple surveys and studies have reiterated the role of gender bias—conscious or unwitting—in recruitments, promotions, remuneration decisions, and at the workplace. But there is another critical factor at play: the underconfidence that women exhibit, even amongst the most qualified sometimes. A recent Hewlett-Packard research revealed…

Three women living in Coromandel in the 19th century discover truths about life through the eccentric and spiritual experiences they encounter. [Aleph Book Company] A peaceful mountain dwelling is colonised and the future of the land and its people is threatened by reckless greed. Heed the warning of this important tale. [HarperCollins India] Ever since Rumaysa let down her hijab and escaped her tower, she’s been searching for her parents. But a dark, magical adventure awaits in this much-awaited sequel. [Pan Macmillan] Back in circulation after more than a decade, this must-read by poet-novelist Jeet Thayil traverses a range of literary styles as well as deep emotions. [Penguin Random House India]…

Step onto ethical, hand-tufted rugs in delightful shapes and colours by homegrown label Needle Project. The brand makes use of New Zealand wool, considered the world’s best for both its quality and kind approach to the animal as the country has banned sheep mulesing. The rugs also feature silk, and can be customised to suit your colour and size requirements. Available at Instagram/needleproject_…

Artists have always held the power of addressing the human condition, and a special show titled Infinite Reminders in the capital brings together the points of views of various artists—Parul Gupta, Vibha Galhotra, and Ayesha Singh from Delhi; Varunika Saraf from Hyderabad; and more. Highlighting the degradation of the Earth and political disquietude, the exhibit will be accompanied by poetry sessions and public programmes. Infinite Reminders is on view at the Nature Morte galleries in The Dhan Mill and Vasant Vihar till August 18…

For an instant mood-lifter, turn to Chaka Khan’s iconic anthem I’m Every Woman that boldly proclaims an unabashed love for oneself. Heed Beyoncé’s chant of being Flawless, coupled with Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s powerful indictment of the patriarchy. Colbie Caillat’s Try is just the reminder that you don’t need to change a thing… Why, my dear, you’re simply perfect! Make Born This Way by Lady Gaga your morning alarm, evening reminder, and lullaby on days you doubt your worth. Self-effacing timidity is so last season! Pump up Meghan Trainor’s Me Too to amp up your self-admiration. The greatest act of love is to fall deeply, madly for yourself. Which is exactly what Hailee Steinfeld proclaims in Love Myself.…

We are standing barefoot on Palolem beach in South Goa, surrounded by unspoiled sand and the sounds of waves flirting with the shore. Shooting during off season has its advantages, for there is not a soul in sight excepting the Bazaar India crew… and two inquisitve street dogs who want to know if we are carrying any biscuits. Radhika Apte is sitting on the shoreline, the camera capturing her every move, and just then a a sizable wave slaps her in the back, sending the actor tumbling into an explosion of foamy water…and then into peals of laughter as she scrambles to safety. What strikes me in that moment, and throughout the covershoot that continues for many hours after the sun has set fire to the ocean, is just how…

Model: Samruddhi Shirodkar at Kult Models London. Hair: Dayna Vaughan Teague. Make-up: Lizzie Edwards. Photographer’s Assistant: Valentina Tzwetkow. Fashion Assistants: Elle Pintilie and Kiara Matharu.…

The COVID-19 pandemic altered many things for us. Among those was the essence of skincare, which is now governed by self-care. According to Beautystreams, a global beauty industry insights provider, this year kickstarted a movement called ‘Joyology’. Focused on embracing a holistic lifestyle, and maintaining physical and psychological health, Joyology has been defined as “the ultimate luxury in beauty”. According to their study, ‘joy’, a new form of inner peace and beauty, will be the macro theme for the next five years. There are numerous studies that prove the mind-skin connection. Dermatologists will affirm that when you are dealing with tremendous stress and anxiety, it shows up on your skin in the form of acne, rashes, and allergies. And when the mind is at peace, your skin automatically appears well-rested…

THE ANTI-AGEING ESSENTIALS If you’re on a hunt for products that help keep fine lines, pigmentation, and wrinkles at bay, consider these Bazaar-approved formulations for taut, glowing skin. This luxurious formula combines the power of rose extracts that leave the skin supple and smooth, and reveal a youthful glow. Infused with red camelia flower, this serum targets five signs of ageing, revitalises skin, and leaves it feeling fresh. Tackling the most-neglected part of the body, this cream is rich in ceramides and lipids that treat thin, sagging skin around the neck and chest, making it appear youthful. Botanical extracts rich in antioxidants and resurfacing acids make this crème a real treat for your skin. It boosts cell growth factors and also provides 24-hour hydration to transform ageing skin. COLOUR ME…

WRAPPED IN LUXURY Inspired by India’s artistic heritage and crafts, homegrown luxury cashmere label Janavi India has launched its recent collection, Cashmere Carousel, which pays homage to Kashmiri embroidery and its craftspeople. Only the purest cashmere, merino wool, silk, and linen have been included in this line, and along with it, the beauty lies in the delightful, hand-painted details, embellishment, lace, and crochet… There are vivid blooms and even symbols of protection to keep you both cosy and stylish this season. Available at the Janavi flagship stores at The Lodhi, The Chanakya, and DLF Emporio, Delhi SENSE OF RENEWAL As models sashayed down the runway in Dior’s Autumn-Winter 2022-23 haute couture collection, beautiful embroideries of the Tree of Life formed a dramatic backdrop. These striking panels, which caught global attention,…

Photographer’s Assistant: Rosa Matilla. Fashion Assistant: Christian Marchesich.…

Harper’s Bazaar: You have grown up around such strong female forces in your family. Tell us how they have inspired you. Navya Naveli Nanda: “My nani [maternal grandmother, Jaya Bachchan] is someone I have looked up to all my life—she has taught me to be unapologetically myself. What I admire about her is that she is very confident in who she is, and never shies away from speaking her mind. And I have implemented this philosophy when it comes to my work…whether it is speaking up about women’s rights or women’s health, I am not afraid to speak my mind.” HB: What prompted you to launch your own company and an NGO at such a young age? NNN: “I certainly can’t say that I know everything that I want to…

Princess Zahra Khanom or Taj al-Saltaneh (left) was considered the most beautiful woman in Qajar [Iran] in the 19th century. It might seem surprising today, but the ideal of a woman’s beauty, at the time, was in a bold unibrow and a strong moustache, which would often be drawn on to make them look more prominent. The princess, for whom it is said suitors even commited suicide, was generations ahead of her times… She criticised veiling, had an abortion to survive childbirth, divorced her unfaithful husband (being the first in the royal household to do so), and wrote a number of books. Princess Zahra may not have been considerd well-behaved, but she made history.…

“There is nothing more luxurious than that which we cannot have,” says Rolf von Bueren, the founder of Thai luxury brand Lotus Arts deVivre that has made its grand entry to India this season. And he may just have hit the nail on an essential truth about human nature. For his brand of jewellery and artefacts, which is now located in Colaba, Mumbai, has grown to be a well-guarded secret amongst collectors from across the world who have an eye for exquisite craftsmanship. Inspired by nature, and using precious gemstones and semi-precious materials along with gold and silver, the pieces are attention-grabbing, to say the least. There are animal-shaped tables made from driftwood, hand-woven and painted wicker clutch bags, bangles and necklaces in the shape of dragons and snakes with…

“Being a healthy woman isn’t about getting on a scale or measuring your waistline. We need to start focusing on what matters—on how we feel, and how we feel about ourselves.”—Michelle Obama, Former FLOTUS and Author “I feel confident when I walk into a room and I try to remind myself that it has nothing to do with my body.”—Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Actor “Because loving yourself is ultimately about self-acceptance, about embracing every part of who you are. And that’s never just one thing.”—Jennifer Lopez, Artist “You all can judge my body all you want, but at the end of the day it’s MY body. I love it and I’m comfortable in my skin.”—Simone Biles, Olympian Gymnast…

“A common response to my book launch is: ‘So, how’s the book doing?’ Why the f*** do you care about how the book is doing? Why don’t you f****** read the book and tell me how you liked it?” A minute into the conversation, and I am already terrified to admit I haven’t read Kubbra Sait’s new book yet. As I bite my lip and wait to be admonished, the green-eyed actor continues to deliver a life lesson while sitting on the floor of her apartment instead of the cushy couch behind her. “We all want to follow herd mentality, do nothing for ourselves, and then ask, why is the world brutal to us?! Because we’re doing what the rest of the world is doing,” she finishes with a chuckle,…

VIRGO AUGUST 24-SEPTEMBER 23 You’re growing tired of the whinging of people who feel hugely disadvantaged by their financial set-up. You’ll be tempted to pick up all the bills and end up feeling resentful, but don’t. You’ll be on the slippery slope to rifts and ructions. LUCKY DAY 12th—being seen as a unique individual boosts your ego. LIBRA SEPTEMBER 24-OCTOBER 23 As a series of mishaps leads you to lose confidence in somebody else’s skills and judgement, you’ll wonder whether to seize control of a similar situation. Insist on bringing ongoing concerns to a head, however risky or scary it might seem. LUCKY DAY 3rd—an unusual intervention brings everyone together. SCORPIO OCTOBER 24-NOVEMBER 22 Reassure family or friends that your latest adventure needn’t threaten your closest relationships. But be honest…

ON HOW YOGA AIDS MIND-BODY CONNECTION Anshuka Parwani, Celebrity Yoga & Wellness Expert, and Founder, Anshuka Yoga “The world of fitness has gone through a paradigm shift in the past few decades. The advent of modern medicine presented ‘wellness’ and ‘fitness’ as two separate approaches, when, in reality, they are interrelated. In today’s time, with information available at our fingertips, it is very difficult to decipher what’s accurate—there are various theories and myths floating around. And that can be very daunting for many. Wherever you go today, you’ll notice one half of the room seeking the perfect body, and the other, mental well-being over anything else. But one must strive to achieve a balance. It is not just about looking fabulous, or fitting into that form-flattering dress…it is also important…

Make-up: Rakshanda Irani. Hair: Jennifer Nazareth and Virja Mehta. Fashion Assistants: Shubham Jawanjal, Hargun Ahuja, Arjun S Kumar, and Diya Subudhi. Production and Coordination: Kavita Sharma.…

In ancient India, people believed that natural catastrophes like famines, droughts, and earthquakes were caused because Mother Earth had forgotten her pleasure. And so, at the turn of every season, kama festivals were celebrated with a lot of fervour to remind Mother Earth of her inner joy, because only when ‘She’ reawakened to her own pleasure would the rest of the creations blossom. Pleasure refers to an ‘experience’ that feels good, and it makes you healthy, productive, and self-sufficient. It also fills you with happiness, which defines how you are with everyone around you. For a woman, pleasure begins in the mind; we have to learn how to ‘think’ pleasure, and only once it takes shape there can it manifest in the body. But, most importantly, pleasure needs to be…

My five-year-old daughter is lying in the crook of my arm as we relax on a terrace overlooking the Ionian Sea, teased by a light breeze that tempers the heat. It seems apt that I am reading her the opening of Roger Lancelyn Green’s Tales of the Greek Heroes: Stories of Immortals who wander amid the towering heights of great mountains, like those that rise behind us. Mid-sentence, Darcy turns to me and asks: “Is Pan the shepherd still there?”, and it really feels as though it might be. After all, we are on the island of Zakynthos, where the natural landscape—ancient olive groves and saturated skies—seems touched by the otherworldly (in The Odyssey, Homer calls it ‘wooded Zakynthos’). Today, the south coast is lined with late-night bars and tourist…

If the daily grind has taken a toll and you’re craving an escape from the shackles of monotony, then there is nothing quite like a retreat to a dreamy beach destination. While India has its fair share of options, one site that never loses its charm is Goa. With its resplendent beaches, delectable coastal cuisine, and a bustling night life, Goa has always been a favourite with tourists, and for good reason. For those with a penchant for art and culture, it offers an eclectic mix of Indian and Portuguese architecture, evident in its unique villas and imposing churches. If you’re planning that getaway, consider staying at the Taj Resort and Convention Centre, which is tucked away from the city’s hustle-bustle and offers some breathtaking views… Perched on a hillock…