Chanel

Written for EBay – © Manali

The House of Chanel has revolutionized haute couture fashion and is today synonymous with elegance, exquisite taste, wealth and timeless appeal. Besides being a real trendsetter in the world of high-end fashion, the brand has gained immense popularity for its unique style and appeal. Gabrielle Chanel, a French fashion designer popularly known as Coco Chanel (1883-1971), is the founder of the House of Chanel. She rose to be one of the most influential figures in the world of fashion and was the one who brought in the first ladies’ pants. Today, Chanel offers many different products such as perfumes, sunglasses, handbags, purses, earrings, shoes and watches that are considered style icons across the world. The brand has become a fashion cult and is the ultimate sign of French high class.

Chanel Sunglasses are very famous and most of the glasses come with all the gorgeous Chanel trimmings – sunglasses wipe, documentation, case, box and carry bag. Chanel eyewear for women is especially exquisite and comes in different pattern, style and colours to combine fashion with class. And if one wants a bag that should stand out from the rest, Chanel handbags are the absolute choice. Chanel handbag and purse are much sought after because of the timeless design and the grace they impart to the owner. Especially the eye-catching leather bags from Chanel that are available in different colours, patterns, textures and style, are apt find bags for all occasions.

Glitz and glamour have never been far from Chanel. Chanel’s cosmetic jewellery has always been in vogue and has adorned the who’s who in the entertainment industry and celebrities like Paris Hilton, Ashley Simpson and many more. Chanel’s famous jewellery range that consists of silver, cubic zirconia, necklace, earrings, bracelets, broaches, rings, pendent, chains and watches are extremely popular for being exclusive. One is sure to find a lot of appealing options in Chanel earrings as they look beautiful with all kinds of attire, be it a sweat shirt or party wear. The beautiful Chanel logo design adds the final touch and makes the earrings a perfect style statement.

One of the significant elements associated with the success of Chanel is the exquisite collection of designer footwear. The Chanel shoes collection remains classic and sophisticated as it always has been and continues with various styles of footwear like evening wears, boots, exotics, flats, platforms, pumps, platforms, slingbacks, widges, ballets and lots more. There is something just implausible about Chanel’s shoe designs that flaunt high fashion and continues to attract celebrities season after season. Many popular celebrities such as Cameron Diaz and Hilary Swank have been spotted wearing the renowned shoes from Chanel.

Chanel does not lag any behind in creating one of the most splendid fragrances – Chanel No. 5 that has been enormously admired since many years. In one instance, Marilyn Monroe responded, “What do I wear in bed? Why, Chanel No. 5, of course.”– Forever immortalising the quintessence of Chanel No 5. Along with its unbelievable fragrance, the perfume has been a best seller ever since, as the fashion house has perfected the art of celebrity endorsement and is indubitably known as the best perfume maker in the world. Whereas, Chanel coco mademoiselle has been equally up in the popularity chart. Its fragrance makes one feel intelligent, sophisticated and elite, to set it itself apart from others. Other global cosmetic jewellery and fashion mega brands like Nina Ricci, Lancome and Elizabeth Arden have also been on the hot list and well appreciated since many years.

Suvo Das, a true photopoet

Published in Mega Modelz magazine – Jan-Feb 2009 Issue – © Manali

For most of them, photography is just another form of expressing art, and for the rest, it is a cordial passion. But when passion becomes profession, it creates a prodigy… and makes an astounding ingenious like what Suvo Das is today. Mega Modelz gives an insight into the man’s life.

When Suvo Das started photography 17 years ago, his main motive then was only to impress his school friends.Fiddling with the camera of his elder brother, he gradually became passionate about the tool. Later, Das completed a photography course from Triveni Kala Sangam where he met Mr. O.P. Sharma, who exposed him to people photography. Progressively in 1994, his photographs launched former Miss Universe Sushmita Sen in a big way, and since then, there has been no looking back for this Delhi based cult photographer.

Suvo Das’s photography today is synonym to finest artistry, refinement and magical work. Besides being an ace advertising photographer, Suvo Das has worked with several fashion designers, top notch models and actors too – thus being acknowledged as one of the most popular photographers in the country. Ask him what kind of shoots he personally enjoys the most, and he swiftly replies, “Be it advertising, modeling portfolio or a shoot for a designer, the contentment quotient depends on the people involved in it. In advertising industry, the work depends on the layout given by the Art Director that is approved by the clients. And in the rest, I get a freedom to create image gratifying my visualization.”

According to him, any branch of photography needs keen observation and an ability to scrutinize people’s behavioral pattern. Nevertheless, he believes it’s equally important to have healthy interaction with the people in front of the camera.

So, is he selective about the models he works with? “Of course one has to be choosy about the models. Apart from having decent looks, the most quintessential thing required is to have is an indomitable attitude,” explains Das, who enjoys shooting at the studios and outdoors evenly. However, Das reveals that outdoor shoots do get expensive for the clients and otherwise also, he says, ‘a lot depends on the finalized visuals that need to be created’. One thing that he really enjoys about his work is traveling to the best locations across the world, but he confesses about the personal life that does take a back seat at times because of his demanding schedule.

Ask Das what does he like to indulge in when not working and he quickly replies, “Traveling. Since Himalayas is close to Delhi, I usually find myself backpacking there.” He further adds, “People all over the world spend fortunes to come and experience the greatest mountain range, so I feel like making the most out of my favorable proximity to this place.” Traveling has also brought some of the toughest challenges he faced in his work. He recounts the appalling times he had while shooting in Ladhak and on the sand dunes in UAE.

Das divulges, “Severe cold and high velocity wind in Ladhak was quite unnerving and the low Oxygen level completely left me in jeopardy. On the contrary, UAE was very hot. The slight wind had the whole setup distorted; while the pressurized air cans got consumed in no time.” However, he affirms, “Any assignment is a challenge in itself. It’s up to the photographer how s/he manages to handle it in an efficient way.”

If not for photography, what would have he liked to be? “Photography had always been my passion and… music is a great soother. But, my secret ambition since school days was always to become a drummer,” he smiles. On final note, what is the advice he would like to give to all the aspiring photographers? He says, “Shoot, shoot and shoot. If you are an esthetic person then the technicalities won’t bother you. But of course, in this age of technology one has to be abreast with everything.” And he signs off.

Styling & Image Designing – a concrete career option to consider

Published in Mega Modelz magazine – Jan-Feb 2009 Issue – © Manali

Photo courtesy: http://www.pearlacademy.com

If you are a fashion addict on a look for a ground-breaking course in designing and styling, your dilemma is solved. As Pearl Academy of Fashion (PAF), the premier industry oriented design institute in India has recently introduced an exciting three-year full time higher diploma course for the undergraduates in Fashion Styling & Image Designing (FSID). Students who are XII pass can apply for this course. However, a creative background with an aesthetic sensibility towards designing certainly adds value to the approach.

Speaking about the innovative course, Ms Nien Siao, the Head of Department and Design says, “The course covers a wide spectrum of in-depth learning on various subjects like history of fashion, elements of design, fashion aesthetics, photography, visualization and communication skills, computer applications and most importantly image and identity. To support the above learning, the course also focuses on subjects like music and film appreciation, make up and hairstyling.”

According to the Ms Sarita Karindikar, an Associate Professor at PAF, Delhi, Fashion Styling is all about placing together the relevant background and elements of focus in a systemic and positioned manner to give the brand a correct exposure and attain compelling impact on the target audience in order to achieve desirable results. She says, “While fashion designing focuses only on creating the garment based on designer’s creative sensibilities and perceptions, Fashion Styling spotlights the entire look to reach out the audience as well as to help establish a signature style for the designers.” Karindikar further adds, “The most significant aspect of Fashion Styling is to get an impeccable visual balance by flaunting the assets and camouflaging the flaws.”

One such infamous designer who revved up Fashion Styling in the country is Manish Malhotra. His fresh trends inFashion Styling and incredible make over of several admired film stars have not only boosted Malhotra’s career but also shot up expectations of the audience and encouraged them to achieve such look in real life. A similar small kind of revolution in styling was made in the mid nineties by a Make up Artist and Hair Specialist Ambika Pillai, whose immaculate craft revamped the look of a person, which made a solid impact on the audience. Likewise, Anaita Shroff Adajania, Mohan Neelakanthan and Jayati Bose are some other popular names in Fashion Styling in India. These days, a lot of designers have started styling for their own garment shoots to achieve the envisaged image and accomplish preferred outcome.

“Today, the mall culture is escalating rapidly. Hence, Fashion Styling & Image Designing has immense scope in the retail sector. Also, nowadays, there is a huge demand for the stylists, personal shopping assistants and image make over specialist in television and media,” Siao persists. She feels it’s very essential for one to be extremely skilled to achieve success in this field. “Apart from general awareness and inclination to absorb and imbibe from the environment around, one needs to have an ability to constantly update with the current scenario and draw from a pool of resources that are available. It is indeed vital to have an eye for detail and a drive to achieve more than expected. Only then can one set a standard for quality work and make a mark in this competitive area of work,” she adds.

So, are Fashion styling and Image designing related? “Yes, they very much go hand in hand to complete the picture. While fashion styling puts the look together, it conveys an image, which further establishes an identity. Whereas, Image design involves making certain changes and adding new elements to augment the existing image. At the cost of sounding repetitive, it is a visual impact to make a statement worth your personality,” explains Parandikar. Apart the bright future that this field offers, one can also earn decent moolah in this profession. “Depending on the client, a stylist can earn somewhere around Rs.1500 to Rs.10,000 per visit. The scale depends on the kind of work and clients/brands involved,” she concludes.

Destiny’s child – Simran Kaur Mundi

Published in Mega Modelz magazine – March-April 2009 Issue – © Manali

When MM conceived the idea of doing a Wardrobe Raid story with a striking model, Simran Kaur Mundi made an obvious choice. She is young, spirited, gorgeous and above all, the latest crown holder supermodel. The fashion photoshoot had to be nothing but the best. Our team, ace photographer Munna S, make-up expert Pawar and hair stylist Sajaan reached her 7 Bunglows apartment and literally raided her totally heaving wardrobe, while Manali H. Shah got chatty with the dame, discussing her impressive collection, fashion hymns, euphoric life and everything else…

Saurabh Muley Photography

When I first met Simran almost two years ago and asked about her profession, she said she was a popcorn seller at amultiplex. Of course, she was just joking. But it left me wondering that if popcorn sellers would start to be as beautiful as her, who would watch the film? On a serious note, Simran did work for a cinema chain then, but only as a guest relations manager.

Coming from a biotech background, she always dreamt of making it big in the corporate world and thus planned to do an MBA as well. However, destiny had some other plans for this vivacious beauty. “My mum wanted me to participate in Miss India ever since. But I shrugged with the very idea. Every year, she would keep an eye on every detail about the contest. Nevertheless, I was headstrong about pursuing an MBA and getting into the corporate world,” she reveals. “It was until Dorris noticed me at Fame… well… I was actually making popcorn that time,” she laughs. What? “Seriously, I was hungry and making some caramel popcorn when she walked up to me. As we got talking, she said I must participate in Miss India.”

Subsequent to the initial blowout about this idea, Simran finally did some serious thinking. “Following this episode, I took it as destiny’s call and went forward. It was certainly not a childhood dream for me,” she says. Did she ever expect to win? “Yes. I mean, it did not come as a shock to me. After my participation, I knew I was the one.” She exclaims.

Finally the world saw this lovely girl walking away in glory with the prestigious ‘Pantaloons Femina Miss India-Universe’ crown. And that win changed it all for her. Today, after almost a year of endearing the title, she is totally happy to be where she is. Work wise, it’s going great guns for her. She has almost walked for all the renowned fashion designers like Hemant Trivadi, Ritu Kumar, Tarun Tahiliani, Satya Paul, J J Valaya and lots more. She also scores full marks when it comes to fashion weeks. “I have done America’s West Coast, Dubai Fashion Week and several other shows across the world. In India, I have done Lakme Fashion Week, Couture Week, Gitanjali Lifestyle Fest and the likes.”

Saurabh Muley Photography

Her first on-air television commercial for Parachute Hot Oil has earned her sparkling accolades too. She must be flying. “Not really. Luckily, my close friends keep me grounded all the time,” she giggles. So what are her future plans? “I am a girl who lives in present. But I know my future is bright for sure. I will definitely bring another feather to my parent’s hat. Besides, I believe my riches consist not in extent of my possessions but in the fewness of my wants,” she asserts.

For a Miss India title holder, getting film offers is now a standard thing. “Yes. In fact I was offered a film when I was 18…” She goes with the flow, “So now I am certainly getting a lot offers. Though, I am not ready to take a leap right away. I would first want to take a few acting classes and see if I can act. I prefer doing my ground work accurately,” she avers.

Agree. But what about those interesting offers in her personal life? She laughs with vague sense of amusement, “When I am not working, I am usually chilling with my friends. Hahaha…” Come’ on… I push her. “Okay, I kind of like someone, but I am not sure. Let’s hope… career is my first priority anyway. I don’t want any distractions… so I am not taking things forward. Except, if anybody worthy comes my way and sweeps me off my feet… well, then why not!”

Fashion & Wardrobe Raid

Mega Modelz: What is your fashion philosophy?

Simran Kaur Mundi: I don’t hold any philosophies. Fashion to me is a fad which comes n goes. One should not fall prey to the fashion trends. Instead, it’s important to know your body type and flaunt a style that looks best on you.

MM: How would you describe your style statement?

SKM: Style is ultimately all about confidence. If you are comfortable in what you are wearing, you are bound to look stylish.

Munna S Photography

MM: If you were stranded on a deserted island and could only have one beauty product and one fashion item with you, what would they be and why?

SKM: Beauty product would be my gloss, because I just can’t live without it. And for the one fashion item, it would be… hmmm… sexy hot pants maybe.

MM: Tell us about the best outfits in your wardrobe (ones that you picked)? And what is so special about it?

SKM: Well, at the outset, it has to be my Mango jumpsuit. I like it because first of all, it’s a jumpsuit. And I just love jumpsuits. Also, because of its really cool bottle green colour, I think it is pretty unique! Next would be the red Satya Paul gown. It is my favourite too, because it’s red… and I totally adore red! And also the fact that it compliments my long legs to its best, I simply love that one. The Swapnil Shinde dress is also one of my cutest outfits. I like it because it’s flowing n sheek at the same time. Whereas, the Deepika Gehani skirt and top is a complete party, I really like the stones the skirt has on it. It is something that I haven’t seen available easily in the market.

MM: One fashion fetish that you can’t get enough of?

SKM: Bags, definitely!!!

MM: What is the wackiest thing you own?

SKM: I have this wig that has horns on it! Looks wacky on me!

MM: Your most recent purchase?

SKM: A short day dress by CK.

MM: The oldest thing in your wardrobe?

SKM: I have this particular tee that I would myself not know how many years old it could be. It probably even has some holes now. But I still have it because it’s simply my favourite.

MM: The most expensive garment in your wardrobe?

SKM: Lehenga Choli by Ritu Kumar.

MM: The most expensive accessory that you own?

Saurath Muley Photography

SKM: Solitare studs.

MM: Name a fashion brand that you would trust any day?

SKM: Calvin Klein.

MM: Name five of the best designers of your choice in the world?

SKM: Marc Jacobs, Gucci, Dior, Ralph Lauren and Louis Vuitton.

MM: An era in history which was the most fashionable according to you?

SKM: The 70’s, anyday.

MM: Your favourite shopping destinations are?

SKM: Has to be New York and Dubai.

MM: The biggest fashion faux par that you ever committed?

SKM: Luckily, none so far… Haha!

MM: Name one fashion creation that you just can’t understand?

SKM: Low cut harrum pants. Why???

Fighting dreadful disorders the right way

Published in ‘Afternoon Dispatch & Courier’ newspaper – 19 January 2009 – © Manali

With the fast paced lifestyle in a tinsel town like Mumbai, where every one works round the clock, leading a healthy life is becoming essential more than ever. Consider women above the age of 30 years, who lead multi-dimensional lives of raising up kids, being a perfect homemaker and upholding office responsibilities – maintaining hale and hearty lifestyle is now posing a big challenge for them.

It is a known fact that women after this age are often prone to several ailments such as Osteoporosis, Menopause, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Obesity, Sexual Transmitted Diseases, and Ovarian Cysts. These are growing at an alarming rate nowadays, apart from the regular ones like migraine, diabetes, asthma and blood pressure. Let us discover about Osteoporosis and Menopause that pose phenomenal threat and find out how to minimize on those risks and stay away from them.

Osteoporosis is a condition that results in loss of the normal density of bone. This disorder weakens the bone, leading to an increase in the risk of breaking bones. Bones that are affected by osteoporosis can fracture with even a minor fall or an injury. This may lead to a hip fracture, or compression fracture of the vertebrae of the spine. The spine, hips, and wrists are common areas of osteoporosis related bone fractures.

The osteoporosis condition can operate silently for decades and doesn’t cause symptoms unless the bone fractures. Some osteoporosis fractures may escape detection until years later. Therefore, patients may not be aware of their osteoporosis until they suffer a painful fracture.

However, according to Dr Nandita Palshetkar, Gynecologist and Infertility Specialist at Lilavati Hospital, factors that increase the risk of developing osteoporosis are lack of exercise, a diet low in calcium, poor nutrition and meager health. “A person suffering osteoporosis will usually feel low, depressed and weak. You may find the person yelling for no good reason,” explains Palshetkar. People who are prone to this disorder are usually women who have thin and small body frames. The other factors include family history of osteoporosis, personal history of fracture as an adult, cigarette smoking and excessive intake of alcohol.

The fact that Osteoporosis follows Menopause can also cause a hitch. “If a person is experiencing irregular vaginal bleeding, hot flashes, night sweats, and other vaginal, urinary, emotional and cognitive symptoms, then she is likely to be suffering from menopause,” says Palshetkar.

“I have always heard about women with this problem after their 40s. It’s very shocking to know that women at early 30s are nowadays going through problems like menopause. I was diagnosed with spondylosis and went through a very tough time for two years,” says Leena Tondan, 34, a homemaker, who runs a cookery class. Ask her if she had any problem related to the above mentioned diseases and she promptly says, “I had irregular menstrual cycle in my 20s and I also know of women who always go through terrible pain during those times. I think it’s high time that there be more awareness about these issues at an early age within the school going girls.”

Conversely, it is important to remember that each woman’s experiences are highly individual. Some women mayexperience few or no symptoms of menopause, while others may experience multiple physical and psychological symptoms. The age at which a woman starts having menstrual periods is also not related to the age of menopause onset. As a rough rule of thumb, women tend to undergo menopause at an age similar to that of their mothers.

So what are the ways to reduce the risk of such disorders and diseases? “Considering today’s demanding life, most women don’t indulge in basic health maintenance regime such as exercising. Yes, exercise is very important for any person to stay aloof and recover from such ailments. A healthy and fit body reduces 30% chances of osteoporosis,” says Palshetkar.

Exercise in any form can keep a person fit. An hour walk daily and the stair climbing are very healthy apart from the regular weight bearing and other exercises. “It is also very essential to have a balanced and healthy diet in routine lifestyle that includes green leafy vegetables, milk, fiber providing fruits, colored salads that act like antioxidants, pulses, wheat rotis and unpolished rice. It is strictly advised to stay away from oily food and reduce the quantity of salt in every day meal. Most importantly, a person needs to be always happy, positive and joyous from within and indulge in activities like yoga, which is very alleviating for anyone,” she concludes.

The bottom line? Be concerned about health risks, but don’t panic. Do whatever you can to lead a healthy lifestyle — including eating healthy foods, staying physically active, exercising, getting regular checkups and paying attention to your environment. Such measures can reduce your risk factors for these conditions and help you lead a long and healthy life.

Bodylicious Nataasha Suri

Published in Mega Modelz magazine – March-April 2009 Issue – © Manali

With the kind of long sultry legs, sexy gait and dazzling smile she wears, Naatasha Suri is indisputably one of the most glamorous dusky beauty who has marked her prominent presence in the world of glitz and glam today. Life can’t get any better for her, as she humbly holds the Pond’s Femina Miss India-World 2006 title to her credit as well. She is surely the epitome of contemporary girl who justifies the ‘beauty with brains’ theory. Completed her bachelors in business management from Jai Hind College, Mumbai, she has also tried her stint in her father’s garment export business.

The rise of a super model…

This eclectic girl surely knows how to win all the brownie points correctly, as she made preeminent use of her title and bagged some of the top notch modeling assignments over the span of almost three glorious years. Her impressive modeling assignments include modeling for top bracket designers like Rohit Bal, Sabina Singh, Ritu Kumar, Hemant Trivedi, Suneet Verma, Rina Dhaka, Asif Merchant, Rana Gill and lots more. With the gifted poise and oodles of confidence, she has probably walked for all the designers amid different fashion weeks in the country.

Not only this, she still continues to grace the face of Mauritius, by being the official brand ambassador for the country. She has even participated in a lot of international fashion weeks like the Rome fashion week, Dubai fashion week, Srilanka fashion week and continues to do several shows in Muscat, Mauritius, Turkey just to a name few. At this time, when recession is affecting most of the people in the industry, Nataasha is happy with the work that is coming her way. “I have shows lined up in full swing at least till April. I thought the number of shows would cut down because of the global meltdown, but apparently shows are still happening, and I am more then glad.”

She has done plenty of TVC’s for brands like Pepsodant, Parachute, Titan Eye Wear, and Whisper amongst many others. Whereas, some of her exciting print shoot assignment includes that of Ponds, Pantaloons, Sneakers and lots more. She is also the host for the infamous gadget show ‘Cell Guru’ telecasted on NDTV 24/7. Not only this, but Nataasha also makes celebrity appearances quite often and is frequently invited as a Guest of Honour for many events in and across the country. Post Miss India, Naatasha has indubitably reached the pinnacle of being amongst the top bracket A grade super models in India.

“God has been very kind to me. The journey has been really good, you know…” she sallies. Continuing in the same vein she says, “This field is really great for a girl who wants to be financially independent. One gets to travel persistently and meet diverse people from across the world. So it is certainly a good profession for the people who want to learn and explore.”

Bollywood calling…

Nataasha lacks no behind when it comes to films. Bollywood has rung her doorbells ever since she won the title, but this cautious girl is just waiting for the right offer. She tales, “The other day I was just sitting and thinking, when I realized that I had received more then 18 films offers off late. Sadly, none of them really looked like the best one to kick start my bollywood career with. I would rather wait for a nice film to come my way – something that has a good role for me and most importantly, the one which portrays me well.”

Is she waiting for some big banner to approach her? “Not really. I love this profession and respect every work that comes my way, but, I would rather go for somebody who knows what film he is making and who has a definite idea about how exactly he must cast me. For instance, Mahesh Bhatt makes excellent films. But it’s about a director who knows where exactly I can fit, and it should open up the doors for me as well… Then you know its right for you,” she smirks.

As far as her personal life is concerned, she is fiercely protective about it. “I don’t want to talk about it at all,” she states clearly. Hmmm. Immediately though, she continues, “By the way, I am single right now… and totally happy with myself. I don’t think about what I am missing out on may be… but I am not looking for anything right now,” she giggles.

Heath and Fitness mantra…

When most of the super models are totally obsessive about their workouts and cautious about every calorie intake, Nataasha Suri prefers it the other way round. “I am not generally very inclined towards going to a gym. I don’t really the idea of like gymming so much. It was during Miss India days that I was actually pushed for it, but otherwise it does not really work for me,” she says simply.

“I like to keep my diet in control, I try to eat healthy. I go for long walks, cycling and I simply love dancing. That way you can be fit and loose calories too. I like to get involved in sports and other activities instead of just going to a gym – I think that’s too boring. But for everybody who goes to a gym, I think it’s great,” says the lass. She believes her biggest plus point is that she knows how her metabolism precisely functions. “Thankfully, my metabolism is superb. I know what will make me put on and loose weight.”

Is she choosy about what she eats? To this, she swiftly affirms, “I indulge into everything under the sun. But it has to be right. I try to eat everything in moderation. I loose calories by walking, skipping and cycling most of the times. It has to be all fun for me. And I like the whole process of being fit. That’s how I generally am.” Besides, the pretty dame does not have a sweet tooth and is not very fond of rice as well. “So automatically the calorie intake is nominal,” says Nataasha, who has had slim body frame since childhood.

Her breakfast includes variety of things from poha, sandwich to omlette, eggs, bread and juice. She is a total Indian-homemade-food freak. For lunch, she likes dal, vegetables and paratha. “I am a total paratha fan,” she grins.  In the evening, she binges on whatever is made at home and for dinner she says, “Well, I always try to have dinner before 8pm. Dinner again consists of Indian food, basically whatever my mom cooks.”

Fortuitously, she has never had an inclination towards tea or coffee. She is a non smoker and does not intake alcohol too. “May be that’s why I don’t have to make much efforts to detox or cut down on anything. It’s just a regular lifestyle for me,” she exclaims. However, she completely loves junk food. “I can totally thrive on it. That’s the only way I let go and have my own space. Otherwise, my diet is quite balanced,” she says, with a sense of pride. Now we completely agree to this one!

Nataasha Suri unveils ‘5 quintessential habits’ that everyone must incorporate in their daily lifestyle:

1) Wake up early in the morning and take a jog by the beach. It will keep you fresh, active and positive throughout the day!

2) Spend at least ten minutes everyday in breathing consciously. It will keep you rejuvenated and peaceful during the course of the day. Pranayam is the safest bet.

3) Make sure you indulge in some kind deed everyday, even if it’s as miniscule as feeding biscuits to a stray dog or grass to a cow. I will keep you peaceful within.

4) There can be nothing better then reading a good book. It helps you unwind and learn at the same time.

5) Most importantly, smile often… from the heart. Even if things around are not going great, smiling can uplift you and keep you going through tough times.

Mohsin Akhtar, aka impossible is nothing

Published in Mega Modelz magazine – March-April 2009 Issue – © Manali

The humble beginnings…

When the going gets tough, only the tough get going. Mohsin Akhtar was the personification of this adage when left his hometown Kashmir at a young age of 21, and the only thing that he had with him was the burning desire to become a model. Braving impossible odds, he struggled on in Delhi for a while, and one day destiny beckoned this good looking hunk to Mumbai. He heeded the call and the rest, as they say, is history…

The journey from modeling to film stardom…

Mohsin kept his head straight as he only looked for and chose quality projects in films and modeling arena. He believed in doing the right things rather than doing things right. When he won the runner up title of the ‘The Times of India Mr India’ in 2007, the who’s who of the glam world sat up and took notice of this 6”1’ lean model.

Today, he has worked with almost all the fashion designers that include names like Arjun Khanna, Vikram Khanna and many more from the fashion world. He has been the in-house model for Manish Malhotra and has been walking for several designers in the prestigious Lakme Fashion Week since the last three years.

So what is it that stops him from participating in the fashion week this year? “I don’t want to block my dates as my movie is up for release tentatively in March end. And besides, my aim was always to be a Bollywood actor,” confesses Akhtar. Coming from nil filmy background and making it to the top without any godfather in the industry, he is today an inspirational icon for small-town strugglers who come to the city with only dreams in their eyes.

His music videos with T- Series and A.R. Rahman and his cameo stint in the blockbuster Luck by Chance certainly cut his ticket, first-class, to Bollywood.

Following the footsteps of many model-turned-actors, even Mohsin turned town several films offers that came his way as he was not really confident about the scripts. Conversely, he fell in love with the libretto of ‘It’s a Man’s World’ (Ye Duniya Wasi Nahi) that is based on Indian male sex workers; written and directed by Saurabh Sengupta. He immediately agreed to do the film as it was radically different.

Anyhow, Mohsin marks his debut with a comedy film ‘Mumbai Mast Kalandar’ that should be  hitting the big screen in March end. “The movie is truly a reflection of my life… So I feel connected to it,’ he smiles. This movie also stars his younger brother Muzammil Akhtar as a parallel lead. Within the span of less than three years, Mohsin is well on his way to prove himself as the best of model-turned actors that our tinsel town has seen so far.

Heath and Fitness mantra…

“When I saw my favourite actors flexing bulky muscles on screen, I thought even I should have a heavily muscular physique. I started working out in earnest and my weight scored up to 98 kgs,” he says gleefully. “However, when I moved to Mumbai, I was taken aback to see that the same stars were actually lean and proportionate in real life and that’s when I got to know that people tend to look heavy by approximately 40% on screen. Sadly, this is what happens with people from small town – they aim to be like the movie stars they see on screen, but the reality is considerably different,” he asserts.

However, to stay healthy and fit, he strongly believes one has to be regular at workouts and strictly eat healthy food. Coming from a coveted Kashmiri Muslim family, he certainly does not believe in following a particular diet. “I just make sure to intake quality but limited food. I don’t bother much during the lunch and eat whatever I like – dal, roti, vegetables, rice and salad. But my breakfast in the morning is usually filled with cereals and cornflakes with milk. In the evening by 4 or so, I munch on snacks that include sandwiches and other fast food. Nevertheless I am highly particular about dinner, which always includes grill chicken or fruits.”

According to him, dinner is a crucial meal and he prefers being light on it as he boldly terms, “Pet batata hai aapke dinner ka haal!” He recommends that one should munch on small meals every 3-4 hours. ‘It will keep you filled and light.’

Quite surprisingly, Mohsin is not very rigid about the pattern of workouts. “I keep changing my workout regime every month. As after a point of time, the body does not react to the same kind of workout. Sometimes I do two body parts a day, later single body part and cardio and abs thrice a week. The key is to keep on rotating the pattern.” Very few people are blessed with a naturally athletic physique like his, and he quickly comments, “I don’t want to become a body builder. There is a thin line between having a body that looks good and boasting a burly body. So one must always set a goal and work on the kind of body shape they want to achieve. Personally, my motive is to retain a good body and continue looking good, nothing else matters.”

With stars like Shahrukh, Aamir and Salman Khan flaunting the abs, has the ‘six packs’ bug bit him? “It looks cool if you have abs,” he says casually. “It’s like, if you have a six pack and your upper body is not that great, it covers up… but if its other way round, trust me, the body looses its charm. One needs to be very careful regarding these things, rather then just blindly pumping the body,” adds Mohsin.

He also strongly believes that one should avoid carrying cell phone to the gym as it can be a major source of distraction. “When I am working out, I never even bother to even glance left or right… I am just totally into it,” he affirms. Though he does not have a personal trainer, he suggests it’s good to have one. ‘They push you that extra mile.’ He feels that he is gifted with a fast metabolism – as since he tends to put on weight quickly, he also manages to reduce as fast.

His ultimate fitness mantra? “Don’t have alcohol. It makes you mindlessly hungry and then you tend to binge on any food, especially oily food… which can undermine all your hard efforts for developing a good physique,” he says wisely.

As they say, ‘It isn’t the mountains ahead that wear you out; it’s the grain of sand in your shoe.’ Make sure that you shake off that grain every morning before you set out, by following Mohsin’s these ‘five tips…’

1. Wakeup early and plan your day, making a list of things you have to do.
2. Practice yoga or meditation. Alternatively, you can hit the gym if time permits – as morning workouts are the best.
3. Have a nice shower… because your body needs some good pampering. And go through the newspaper, you’ll feel connected with today’s world.
4. Have a heavy breakfast with your family. And if you are staying alone, eat whatever you feel like, with a keen eye on what you actually indulge in.
5. Listen to some nice music that can set the mood for your entire day.

India’s biggest photographer unplugged

Published in Mega Modelz magazine – March-April 2009 Issue – © Manali

Ace film and fashion photographer, rhymester of the prestigious Kingfisher calendar, owner of the ever-flourishing ‘Bling’ celebrity management and the man behind inception of ‘Corporate Image’…  A mixed bag, Atul Kasbekar is walking in the momentum. Manali H. Shah attempts to keep pace…

As I wait for him in anticipation at his studio Negative Image, my inquisitive eyes roll around the office. Quite startlingly, I notice that this place is quite different from my other photographer friends standard but flamboyant photo studios that I visit often for shoots and otherwise. Comparatively, this studio I see is a toned down version of the lot, which has an uncanny hint of sophistication to it. As my train of thought begins to gear up, a vigorous tone interrupts out of nowhere. I look on; and to my realization, it is Atul Kasbekar who calls out a ‘Hi’ to me. I reciprocate with a soft smile.

It is going to be my first innings with this legendry photographer. I follow him inside his studio, where I observe some ravishing models striking spectacular pose, all looking their gorgeous best, as the latest Kingfisher calendar rule a particular section of the wall right across me.

We take a seat, and I quickly move my mobile phone on the table next to him and without wasting much time, push the recorder key on. At the cost of sounding cliché, I pop up the very first question, ‘How did your love affair with photography start?’ And, he clinched. I nonetheless promise him that while the interview proceeds, we would talk regarding some interesting things that he must have never got to speak about in his past interviews. To this, he modestly flags a green, and we head on.

Peek-a-boo into the past…

“I quit studying chemical engineering in the second year of my college when I figured out that this was something I did not want to be in life. I always liked clicking pictures; it’s the art that sort of fascinated me… so I decided to take the plunge in photography.”

“I went to Brooks Institute in Santa Barbara to learn the tool and later worked in Los Angeles for over a year. I finally came down to Mumbai in 1991,” he says nonchalantly. Unlike many of us, Kasbekar, as a kid, performed quite well in the academics bit too. “Be it math or science, I was always pretty good at academics. I never really considered anything else as I thought I would become a doctor or an engineer types,” he admits. Coming from an emblematic south Mumbai existence, he has played a lot of sports during the course of his schooling in the all-boys ‘Campion.’

So, who would he say is the fuel of his life? And he promptly asserts, “I don’t consider any particular person this way. As, when you know your family is always there for you, things become much easier. I have been equally close to my parents, wife, kids and sisters, as well as my in-laws family too. We share a strong bonding in the family. Apart from the family bit, it’s safe to say that if you genuinely like a person who you are in love with, the battle is won. And I have been very fortunate in that sense.”

As I see him getting in the groove, I swiftly ask him to speak about his Brooks institute experience. “Being in southern California where the sun, sand, sea and women are prominent, I definitely had a good time. It was a different time in India when I went to Brooks. As a young boy you are expected to become an architect, doctor or an engineer. But when people saw my penchant towards photography, they suspected my magnitude. Hence, it was certainly path-breaking as I had a lot to prove when I got back.” Even after working with several big photographers abroad, he never considered settling down there. ‘Not even for a minute, India is my home,’ he declares.

The turning point…

He opportunely bagged some high profile assignments within few months of returning to Mumbai. After doing the outdoor campaign for Park Avenue and catalog shoot with the brand Sheetal amongst several others, his pristine work instinctively snowballed him into recognition.

It is no doubt that today, most of the people consider Kasbekar’s job to be the best in the world. “Yeah, I get that a lot,” he laughs incisively. “But, I think it’s true. I frankly think of myself as a very fortunate guy that I can make my living out of what I really enjoy doing. For instance, my Chartered Accountant, he could not care less about cricket or sports… but, as ridiculous it may sound, numbers really turns him on. In that manner I am quite similar. There is a whole lot of glamour quotient attached to my work which is why it is noticed. Otherwise, it’s the same thing.”

He continues, “I would have taken the pictures anyway, it’s just that I happen to get paid for it, which is great. I believe there are very few people who enjoy doing what they do, whereas the rest of them go to work. But, if you are having fun, then, despite of the number of hours you put in, you are automatically having fun all day. And if you get a cheque at the end of the day, how nice can that be! That’s really the whole master plan!”

So what would he call the turning point of his life to be, “When I returned Mumbai, there weren’t many people in the business who came back from a photography school with vast technical knowledge. I was probably the first person. And propitiously, I started getting good break within the first 6 months of being here. Maybe it was just the timing I guess. Nevertheless, I pretty much delivered my best and people were satisfied with my work. It just feels like yesterday…” He muses in nostalgia.

Is that something to do with his winning an award at the Brooks? “Not really. Though I topped my graduating class and won an award. But, if I get a genuine compliment from one of my peers, saying, ‘hey, really nice cover’ – to me that is an ultimate award.”

Do such people really exist these days? “I am not totally sure about that. Nevertheless, if I see exceptionally good work from one of my colleagues, I definitely call him and admire it. I don’t see what’s wrong with it. Though, to the best of my knowledge, there is only one or two person who reciprocate and have a kind word.” Continuing in the same streak, he says, “I learnt this a long time ago from Prahlad Kakkar that if somebody is talented, they are going to breakthrough and do well, whether you help them or no. It’s like, if you light many candles with your candle, the whole world becomes a brighter place.”

Almost all the photographers who has assisted Atul Kasbelkar in the past, are doing considerably well in this field today. Infact, he is the only photographer in the country who’s more then 30 assistants have now reached the milestone in this field. But, he seldom feels threatened. “Infact it gives me immense pleasure when I see any of my former assistants driving a great car or winning an award. I am a kind of person who never generally feels insecure – be it for work or in general. I am very generous with my praise if I like anybody’s work. It just comes naturally to me. I guess someone out there has been really kind to me.”

Photography funda…

When it comes to being behind the lens, Kasbekar makes a highly structured photographer. “To a great extent I am fairly clear about what I want. I visualize the pictures I have to click and use that as a bare minimum benchmark for delivery, and then I probe around to see what else can happen.” He uses reference strictly as a reference. It is important to communicate with the clients about the kind of the mood and feel the photos will reflect. “So that everybody is on the same page and there are no problems in expectation management later on,” he opines wisely. Anyhow, he totally loathes the idea of copying the reference, “Then you are not a photographer… And if you are telling me do this, then you are just paying me wee bit too much… as anybody else can do this,” he mutters.

Effervescent and full of life he might be, but he becomes a completely different person once he is behind the camera. “When I am shooting with the likes of say Shahrukh, there is going to be noise as set is ought to be filled with a lot of people. Conversely, it does not make any difference to me as I don’t hear or see anybody then. At that time the particular human being I am shooting with becomes the most important person in the world, with whom I need to communicate. I totally get into the zone. I don’t take calls, unless if there is any calamitous situation that way. Amazingly, the only time I tend to feel tired is probably after the shoot,” he confesses.

One thing that he totally loves about his job is that no two days are alike. “Even if I have shot anybody for like hundred of times, the hundred and first picture is going to be radically different. There is no rigid pattern, you see.” His job surely earns him incredible amount of moolah… but for Kasbekar, “Money is like a byproduct to being able to follow your passion. If the idea was to only make money, then my Dad has a chemical factory and I could have seriously made a lousy chemical engineer earning times double the money any day then I make by being a photographer. Clearly, there is no dispute about that.” He clears, “Honestly, I don’t think about it. It just comes. Someone up there just makes sure I have enough.”

As nearly 70 per cent of his work happens with the celebrities, he believes in treating everybody as an ordinary person. “It works well if you don’t give them too much importance. In fact, a lot of celebrities appreciate if you treat them normally.” However, his another company Corporate Image that deals in photographically glamorizing the titans of the corporate world like the Ambani’s, Ratan Tata, K. V. Kamath and many more, isn’t it difficult to get them pose in front of the camera? “If you are a people photographer, you have to do whatever it takes. You should have the knack to change yourself to put them into a comfort zone. Taking a picture is something that any idiot can do, but the art lies in making them feel at ease and bringing them to trust you. And the word ‘re-shoot’ is a swear word for me.”

The coveted Kingfisher calendar…

The Kingfisher Calendar conceived by Kasbekar for the UB Group has unquestionably become a cult phenomenon today. So what was his idea behind the conception of this one? “I think, for me it was an interesting space to be in. I was lucky over here that Dr. Vijay Mallya and Kingfisher partnered with me. I had a limited vision of how to make the calendar look good but what Mr. Mallya saw was a much wider cult phenomenon.”

Out of all the 7 editions of the Kingfisher calendar shoot, which one is his personal favourite? “The latest is always the best. As, the 2009 calendar was return to the basics. No gimmicks, no drama and very little Photoshop. The joy is in making use of intrinsic elements like nature, water, light, air, leaves – it was genuinely a rejuvenating experience for me. And the response has been phenomenal! For me it was just cathartic and I am really happy. This is the joy of making an image by itself,” he says, with a sense of pride.

However, one thing that he doesn’t like about the photographers nowadays is that, “Most of them are technically and esthetically incompetent. They depend a lot on fixing the picture after the shoot. But hey, why don’t you do a straight shoot that will blow my pants off? That will impress me!” He emphasis, “I am not afraid to say this… they are both, theoretically and aesthetically a complete disaster.”

“Any idiot can sit on the computer all day and make a striking photograph. But, where is the purity of your vision then? How great an image can you do?” He feels that photographers like Richard Avedon whose work is mostly one light, grey background is an ultimate illustration of art. “They are conceptually and esthetically so strong that if even today you put a logo of any brand on the image and it will surely work wonders!” He affirms.

So what is it that he looks for in a fashion model when deciding on the faces for the calendar, “I shortlist about 8-10 models and Dr Mallya then chooses the final 5.” Kasbekar sallies, “I am not into perfectly perfect face… The ideal beauty is bohemian and I prefer slightly quirky face, as for me those are more memorable. Though all the models are beautiful and sexy anyway…”

Personally perfect…

This ace photographer’s life is no different then most of us. A normal day in his life is, “If all goes ordinary then I see my kids off to school in the morning, then go for workout at Bombay gymkhana and reach work by 10am.” Nothing like other media bees, Kasbekar prefers waking up quite early in the morning. “I get up by 7:30am or so. Yaar, I can’t sleep till late. For me, 5 hours is more then enough to get a sound sleep. Remaining, I feel is a waste of time.

He further philosophies, “Logically, a normal person almost spends almost 20 years out of 60 years in sleeping, now how wasteful is that?!” This leaves me wondering… “I am usually the energizer bunny… as I am more energetic then most of the people,” he says gleefully. According to him, his time is usually packed. “If not for photography then I have Bling to take care of and just incase if I have nothing to do, then I will make up things to do,” chuckles Kasbekar.

His two fraternal twins Arnav and Naomi are 12 years old now, studying in South Mumbai school called Hill Spring. “They play fairly great tennis. It’s good to see them being such an apt at sports.” Kasbekar is personally having one of the best times with his kids right now. “It’s a wonderful age to hang out with them. At this age they still think it’s cool to hang out with parents… but, once the teens bug hit them, let’s see,” he laughs.

I straight away defend him by saying that any child would be lucky to have a parent like him and his kids would surely continue chilling out with such a cool dad even in their teens… “I hope so,” he laughs incessantly. “I have been kidding with my daughter Naomi ever since, that after 5 years even she has to model for the Kingfisher calendar and she goes like ‘noooo…’ It’s basically a family joke now!” He says, with a gleam in his eyes.

Strangely, none of his kids are interested in considering modeling or photography as a profession after they grow up. “It will be good to see them playing professional tennis in the future though, if they wish to,” he adds. Kasbekar’s wife handles the production work in the studio, “She handles the back office and works whenever she feels like,” he smiles.

When not working, what does Kasbekar indulge into? “Hmm… I am actually pretty much working 24/7, except for Sunday. It’s a family day then. Though these days I am listening to my body, say if I feel like sleeping, I sleep. Whereas, Sunday evenings are usually spent with some close friends, where we have some nice food, good wine and fine conversations.”

These days however, he is trying to get in a better shape. “I want to get back in a really good shape, something like I was a few years ago,” he concludes. Another six pack abs in making… I wonder!