Roy
BROUGHT
Setting the stage on fire!
EDITOR
Aakanksha Naval-Shetye aakanksha.naval@starzmediainc.com
Asst Manager - Digital Marketing Aadharika Gandotra aadharika.gandotra@starzmediainc.com
Graphic Designer
Amit Panchal amit.panchal@aldanube.com
Arabic Content Writer & Translator Hanan Yehia Mulazem hanan.yehia@starzmediainc.com
BUSINESS MANAGER - EVENTS
Mayur Panchal mayur.panchal@starzmediainc.com
Senior Coordinator- Marketing and Sales
Anushree Khandelwal anushree.khandelwal@starzmediainc.com
Magazine Co-ordinator
Ali Karrar ali.karrar@starzmediainc.com
FILMFARE (INDIA)
Chief Executive Officer
D eepak Lamba
Chief Community Officer & Editor
Jitesh Pillaai
Executive Editor
Anuradha Choudhary
Brand Solutions Director
Jyoti Verma
PUBLISHED BY: Starz Media Inc
P.O BOX: 18022 Dubai, United Arab Emirates
REGIONAL PARTNER OF
Worldwide Media Pvt. Ltd
Copyright 2022 Starz Media Inc
Winter is Coming! The weather bureaus have announced the onset of the cooling climes and the winter calendars are filling up fast across UAE.
But hold on just yet Dubai, as some of the biggest Bollywood superstars are coming here to set the mercury soaring with their sizzling performances at the much-awaited FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST
ACHIEVERS NIGHT 2022! Yes, we are back… Bigger, Better and with the BEST!
Setting the stage on fire this time around is none other than THE ULTIMATE SHOWMAN of Bollywood – RANVEER SINGH! So block your date - 19th November 2022 - and get ready to meet the Superstar whose high-octane adrenaline-fuelled performance will get you grooving with him! Also meet the gorgeous star JANHVI KAPOOR ready to wow you with her spectacular and dazzling dance moves.
So gear up to see your favourite stars sizzle on the stage, meet many more as they grace the red carpet and join in one of the biggest Bollywood entertainment events in the region. Celebrating the best in cinema will be the names you love, faces that are legends and stars who have ruled screens and hearts!
One such Bollywood diva is our Cover Star MOUNI ROY who will set the stage ablaze with her scorching performance! Very much like she did on screen recently with Brahmastra. The actress stunned and wowed all with her screen avatar Junoon, biting into the role with such relish… and making bad look good like never before as the power-wielding antagonist!
Radiating charm and a confidence that could only come from having that faith in your craft and then seeing it reflect in the blockbuster Box Office numbers, she tells me that there was never a moment of doubt about taking up this challenging role. Read all about it in our exclusive Cover Story with the star on Page 10.
Turn the pages to get your dose of the high-life, fashion and all things luxury! The Cover Launch of our Wedding Issue was unveiled by the September Cover Star Mrunal Thakur! Check out the highlights of the glitzy affair that was high on glam and all things fun!
Don’t miss out our interview with the multi-faceted actor-singer Shruti Haasan who makes a statement for women with her new single ‘She’s a Hero’. We also talk to Mr Bader Ali Habib, Head of Region & 360 Market Lead, South Asia - Dubai Economy and Tourism, about how Dubai’s progress over the last decade has inspired people around the world.
In the Arabic section, check out Hanan Yehia’s interview with the celebrity beauty blogger NikkieTutorial. Also read about the first Emirati model Ahmad Buseem and his journey in the fashion industry.
So there’s lots happening in the pages and lots waiting to happen outside too. Gear up people and book your tickets now for the most exciting Bollywood entertainment event in Dubai. See you all at – FILMFARE MIDDLE EAST ACHIEVERS NIGHT!
All rights reserved. While the
have made
held
Printed
will not
Aakanksha Naval-Shetye
Editor
Filmfare Middle East
LOG ON TO WWW.FILMFAREMIDDLEEAST.COM
DAILY UPDATES!
Copyright 2022: Reproduction in any manner in any language in whole or part without prior written permission is prohibited
09 22 18
GUESS WHO WOULD LIKE TO SLIDE INTO RANVEER SINGH’S DMS
RAJNIKANTH STARTS SHOOTING FOR JAILER KARTIK AARYAN DREAMS OF OWNING A PRIVATE JET
WHEN KICCHA SUDEEP MET SRK!
CHECK OUT SOME OF THE MUST-HAVES THAT SPELL UBERLUXE
AMAZING BRANDS, INSPIRING STORIES
40 44
SHRUTI HAASAN IN CONVERSATION WITH AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE ABOUT MAKING A STATEMENT WITH HER NEW SINGLE
COVER STORY
highlights luxury talk interviews events
MOUNI ROY TALKS TO AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE ABOUT SETTING THE SCREENS ABLAZE AND HITTING JACKPOT AT THE BOX-OFFICE WITH HER JUNOON
LEADING BLOGGERS SHARE THEIR SUCCESS STORIES AT DANUBE PROPERTIES’ MY DUBAI MY HOME EVENT
SANIA MIRZA MAKES AN INTERESTING REVELATION AT DANUBE HOME’S MY GARDEN 2023 E-CATALOGUE LAUNCH
ELLI AVRRAM IS LIVING HER DREAM
ABHIMANYU DASANI GETS CANDID WITH AAKANKSHA NAVALSHETYE ABOUT HIS REFUSAL TO GET BOXED DOWN IN AN IMAGE
ABOUT DUBAI
BY COVER
BADER ALI HABIB TALKS TO AAKANKSHA NAVAL-SHETYE ABOUT DUBAI BEING A FAVOURITE CITY FOR ARTISTES, CORPORATES AND TOURISTS FROM ACROSS THE WORLD CHECK OUT THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE SEPTEMBER COVER LAUNCH BY COVER STAR MRUNAL THAKUR AT HIGH NOTE POOK AND SKY LOUNGE
Highlights
RYAN REYNOLDS REVEALS HE WOULD LIKE TO SLIDE INTO RANVEER SINGH’S DMS
Ryan Reynolds has talked about his love for Bollywood lms before, and now, the Deadpool star has revealed which Indian celebrity’s DMs he’d like to slide into. And it’s none other than Ranveer Singh. In an interview with a leading news portal, Ryan Reynolds shared that he’d like to slide into Ranveer Singh’s DMs. His relatable response has netizens nodding in agreement. To note, Ranveer voiced Deadpool in the 2018 lm Deadpool 2’s Hindi dubbed version. Ryan Reynolds was last seen in The Adam Project alongside Mark Ruffalo The actor is all set to release his docu-series Welcome to Wrexham, which is about his football club, Wrexham AFC. Meanwhile, Ranveer Singh, who was last seen in Jayeshbhai Jordaar, is gearing up for the release of Karan Johar’s Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani alongside Alia Bhatt
Rajnikanth starts shooting for Jailer
a bird’s-eye view of show town’s happenings
KATRINA KAIF SPEAKS ABOUT HER HUSH-HUSH WEDDING WITH VICKY KAUSHAL
Katrina Kaif has opened up about why her wedding with Vicky Kaushal was an intimate, low-key affair. They tied the knot in December 2021, at Fort Six Senses, Banwara. Recently, the couple was spotted attending the Filmfare Awards. Katrina stated the real reason behind their hush-hush wedding and said, “I think more than trying to keep it private, we were restricted by, unfortunately, COVID-19. You know, my family has been personally affected by COVID-19, and it was something that you had to take seriously. “Katrina further added, “I think this year it’s been a lot better, but it was something that we wanted to really be cautious of, but the wedding was beautiful. I think we are both very happy.”
Rajnikanth will once again be returning to the silver screen with his upcoming lm Jailer. The megastar started shooting for the movie recently. Jailer (aka Thalaivar 169), directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, also stars Ramya Krishnan. The makers of the movie have released the rst look of the movie, which shows the actor sporting an intense look. Other than Rajnikanth and Ramya Krishnan, sandalwood star Shiva Rajkumar will also be seen essaying a pivotal role in the movie. He is reported to be the antagonist in the movie. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is also reported to play one of the leading ladies in the movie. The movie is scheduled to be released in theatres in mid-2023.
TWO GOOD!
Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor are expecting their first child, and they are overjoyed. We are as well. Alia Bhatt attended an event in Hyderabad to promote Brahmastra, which stars the newlywed couple, wearing a dress with a ‘Baby on Board’ sign on the back. How adorable is that? We love how much the hottest couple in town is in love with their pregnancy. Alia Bhatt is proud of her baby bump and has been flaunting it with confidence. She even turned around so that the audience could see the artwork. We adore her and Ranbir and wish them a happy pregnancy.
WHEN KICCHA SUDEEP MET SRK AT MANNAT
Kiccha Sudeep is a pan-Indian star today, but there was a time when the Kannada star wasn’t that well known across India. After the release of Ram Gopal Verma’s Rann, he was reportedly invited to Mannat by Shah Rukh Khan, where the duo engaged in an insightful conversation. According to another report, Sudeep’s friend Nikhil Dwivedi took him to Mannat without telling him where they were going. Sudeep was nervous at rst, but soon the ice thawed and the two engaged in a two-hour conversation about cinema. “He (Shah Rukh Khan) was sweet enough to invite me to his house after seeing Rann. Yes, we had a good cup of coffee, and we chatted for a long time. I saw his house. He was very kind,” Sudeep recently revealed details about the meeting to a portal. Sudeep was last seen in his pan-Indian lm, Vikrant Rona.
VICKY KAUSHAL, SANYA MALHOTRA AND FATIMA SANA SHAIKH BEGIN FILMING FOR SAM BAHADUR
expert adviceVicky Kaushal’s next is Meghna Gulzar’s highly anticipated lm, Sam Bahadur. The lm will see Sardar Udham star as Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw. The actor has shared a video of the table read and preparation as lming begins. It also offers a behind-the-scenes look at his onscreen transformation. Filming for Sam Bahadur, which also features Sanya Malhotra and Fatima Sana Shaikh, is of cially underway. In a new video, the cast and crew can be seen reading the script. Vicky Kaushal shared the video on his social media handle. He captioned the post, “Reading together, a story we are honoured to tell. Of a Soldier and a Gentleman. The video offers a look at Vicky Kaushal donning the uniform. We also see him alongside Sanya Malhotra, who plays his wife, Silloo. Meanwhile, Fatima Sana Shaikh plays Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
KARTIK AARYAN DREAMS OF OWNING A PRIVATE JET
KARTIK AARYAN SAYS HE STILL TRAVELS IN THE ECONOMY SECTION DESPITE BECOMING A SUPERSTAR AND HASN’T STOPPED DREAMING BIG. “I HAD A DREAM CAR AND WANTED A LAMBORGHINI, AND I GOT IT ALSO. I WANTED TO BECOME AN ACTOR AND THAT GOT FULFILLED. AND THE DREAMS ARE GETTING BIGGER. PRIVATE JET BHI AANA CHAHIYE (I WANT TO OWN A PRIVATE JET AS WELL).” KARTIK WILL BE SEEN NEXT IN SHEHZADA, THE OFFICIAL HINDI REMAKE OF THE 2020 TELUGU FILM ALA VAIKUNTHAPURRAMULOO, WHERE HE CO-STARS WITH KRITI SANON, THE FILM IS SET FOR A FEBRUARY 10, 2023 RELEASE.
DR. SANA SAJANACNE SCARS:A QUICK LOOK AT HOME REMEDIES AND MODERN-DAY TREATMENTS.
Acne is common among people of all ages, from teenagers and young adults to womens. While it can be distressing, the good news is that it is possible to manage acne scars effectively.
As far as home remedies are concerned, application of aloe vera gel extract, coconut oil, vitamin E, raw honey, shea butter, grapeseed extract, icepacks, lemon juice, etc., can effectively lighten the acne scars on the face.
However, in cases of severe acne, acne marks may require a more thorough treatment to make them less noticeable. A wide variety of acne scar removal treatments are available, but the right one depends on the type of acne, its severity and the extent of damage it has caused to the underlying skin. So, it is best to get expert advice from a dermatologist to choose the right and best acne scar treatment for you.
There are numerous treatments available to remove or lighten the scarred surface, reduce its size or improve its appearance. Here are a few most effective ones:
CHEMICAL PEELING:
This involves the use of strong chemicals (acids) to remove the outer layer of skin and reduce the appearance of scars. Various chemicals such as trichloroacetic acid (TCA), glycolic acid can be used depending on the skin type, severity of acne and scarring caused by it. It is especially effective for deeper scars.
BOTOX INJECTIONS:
Botox injections are very effective for acne scars with puckered skin around them. This puckered area can be relaxed with an injection of botulinum toxin (Botox) to improve the appearance of skin.
PUNCH EXCISION:
This involves surgically removing an acne scar through a punch matching the size of the scar.
DERMABRASION:
Reserved for the most severe acne scarring, the procedure involves removal of the damaged top layer of skin with a rapidly rotating wire brush or wheel with a rough surface. The procedure deeply exfoliates the top layer of the skin to reduce the appearance of deeper scars.
MICRONEEDLING:
One of the most recent advances in pimple marks removal treatments, microneedling uses a small, handheld pen or needle-studded roller to puncture the skin on the surface of the scars. As the punctured skin heals, it makes collagen and reduces the visibility of acne scars by smoothing out the skin.
LASER RESURFACING:
Laser treatment for acne has recently gained a lot of noise for its superior and early results without using any chemicals or scrubs. The procedure involves the removal of the top layer of skin to reveal the underlying younger skin cells to reduce the appearance of scars. It creates a more even surface of the skin.
ettingS theScreens
Mouni Roy
Mouni
Roy and fantasy thrillers
seem to be a lucky combination, be it on the small screen or big! However, portraying the powerripped, fearsome antagonist Junoon in the super-hit Brahmastra with aplomb and elan, it’s easy to see that the performance was no flash in the pan for the stunning star who has over the years cemented her position as a powerhouse performer. The role was a challenging one and the actress admits that there was much to un-learn too. But Mouni nailed it perfectly on screen, acing the role as the formidable foe! Riding high on the success of her latest, she is now looking forward to raising the bar with many more such versatile and thrilling roles in the projects lined up ahead. In an exclusive interview with us, she talks all about it and also reveals her dream role!
AakankshaNaval-Shetye
Both – the audience and the critics - have been raving about your performance as Junoon in Brahmastra. Did you expect to strike such a strong chord with movie goers?
Honestly, no. I did not. Even before the release, Karan (Johar) Sir and Ayan (Mukerji) had told me that this is going to be special, but I did not know how special it is going to turn out for me and I’m absolutely overwhelmed with the audience’s reaction and the kind of love I have received for Junoon. And I couldn’t be more thankful for being able to be a part of this movie, this Astraverse. And I am just really grateful.
How did you prepare for the role… Did you have any character as a reference?
No, I did not have a reference character I could draw parallels from. I truly believe that Ayan has written this character so well and, in his head all the characters of this film have God-like qualities and Maa Kaali being Junoon’s inspiration. And Ayan was very clear that he did not want Junoon to be very loud. There was a quiet confidence in her and she should evoke fear as she stands and even talks in a normal volume and without any projection. So, it took me some time to kind of understand it, understand his vision and I had to un-learn a lot. Like this was not something I have ever played before. So, it took a lot of readings, few workshops and yes, I think we cracked it by the end of it when I was on set, and I was saying my dialogues. Well on set, Ayan would come and tell me every day to listen to Shiv-Strotram. And he was very clear that the way my relationship with Shiv-Ji is or Krishna is, and their importance is in my real life - Junoon also has the same relationship with Brahmdev, whom she was channelizing all her energies and powers from. So, that was one thing that I kept in my mind.
Were you at any time apprehensive or skeptical about playing Junoon, especially since she is an antagonist?
No, not for a moment did I think I did not want to play Junoon. From the word go, I really thought it was very interesting, a very powerful female part. It’s not every day in Hindi cinema you get to see a female antagonist who is all powerful and so fearsome. To be a part of Brahmastra, the
vision that Ayan had was a huge thing for me. So, I okayed it I think the first time I went and met Ayan. I loved it so much.
And, funnily it was going to be a special appearance, the first time that I met him, and I still wanted to do it because I was like I want to be a part of a superhero film playing this character and I am just happy that it turned out the way that it did, and I couldn’t have asked for more.
So what was it that made you sign the dotted line in the first place ?
Story, it’s always the story that makes you accept or reject a role, I guess. The script was brilliant. The actors that are there in this film are legendary, all of them. Whether its Ranbir (Kapoor), Alia (Bhatt), Shah Rukh (Khan) Sir, Nagarajuna Sir, Mr. Bachchan. I mean it was a complete deal come through. And I am a huge fan of all of them. So, when I got to know that I am playing the antagonist in Brahmastra, I was over the moon. There was nothing for me to say no to or not accept it.
What was the most challenging bit about playing the character? I think the most difficult part about playing Junoon was to not have any projection. Whether it is the dialogue or body language or in facial expressions, but still be that all powerful person or the fearsome villain that she is. And so initially when I started playing it or during the readings, I had a tendency to get slightly loud and I could feel that something wasn’t right. We really worked a lot on the dialogues, the voice modulation. It was a completely different animal for me to kind of understand the character and to get in the skin of the character.
Is it going to be tougher to choose your next role or easier now with the huge success on your back!
I don’t know. For an outsider, I think, things are always slightly more difficult. Having said that, I think I am getting a lot of good offers now. And I can only hope and pray that I get to do different roles, versatile roles, authorbacked roles. And great roles and characters are being written for women now. And thanks to the OTT space also opening up the way that it has, we have a lot to do and lot of characters
to play and such great stories are being written for women. I truly believe Brahmastra has done well for everybody who’s associated with the film. From every department.
And yes, only looking forward. Fingers crossed. And hope in my heart and faith in my heart that I get to do some very good, very cool stuff.
You were reigning the TV industry and now the Box-Office too... Does it create pressure for you as
an actor to live up to that measure of success or you just enjoy the process?
Not really, I don’t think I feel any pressure. Because, as actors we can only be putting in 100 per cent of whatever we’re doing at present, being in the present moment and completely let yourself be taken over by the character that we’re playing, doing a good day’s work. So, in television as well I used to do the same. I used to take one day at a time and do my work with full discipline and that’s it. So, I don’t think anything is in our hands. The success or failure
of a show or of a movie varies on very different equations. So that’s all you can do. You can do your work with honesty and let the audience decide if they like it or not.
Has life been different post Brahmastra?
Life is just the same. My family and friends are the same. They treat me the same way.
They fight with me the same way. In terms of professional space, yes, most definitely it is better. I can feel that people take me a little bit more seriously than they used to as an actor and more doors are opening up. And I am really looking forward to doing some great work.
So, what is the real Mouni like?
The real Mouni is a normal person, who loves life. I am a happy-go-lucky person. A person who loves her family and friends, who is spiritual, religious. A small-town girl with big dreams and still ready to wake up as a newcomer every single day and ready to learn and unlearn what life has to teach.
How do you look back at your journey so far?
I look back at my journey as a complete rollercoaster ride with so many experiences. Some great experiences, some not so much. But I
think I am where I am because of my journey and everything that I have learned along the way, everything that I have experienced, I feel like I have grown up a lot in this industry. Learned so much. And life is full of surprises so I’m just going to let life surprise me and take me wherever it wants to.
What is the one thing industry has taught you?
The one thing that industry has taught me is - work begets work. The harder you work, luckier you get. Be disciplined, keep working and you can go on and on and on.
Do you have a dream role... Your wishlist?
I have lots and lots of dream roles. A lot of people, directors that I want to work with. Both in the Hindi film industry and down South. But if I have to pick one, I would say maybe like an Indian dance drama, like Indian Broadway musical where I play the character of a Kathak dancer.
You and the fantasy genre seem to be rather lucky for each other?
Yes, I would rather think that. Me and fantasy fictions just go hand-in-hand, I feel. Because I am also half the time, like spaced out in my own world, daydreaming. And seem to have a connect with that which does not exist to the world. Which is why my understanding of that world is kind of good I would say. In fact, I am doing something else also which again I can’t reveal in which I am not a normal human being. So, I am really looking forward to that project as well.
Tell us more about your upcoming projects?
Well, I am doing two more films now and two web-series. But I can’t disclose anything at the moment because it’s unfair. I have to let the makers do the announcement. But it will all be announced very, very soon.
Your advice to newcomers would be… To work, work, work! Work hard on your craft. Do some sort of homework. Take workshops. Hone your skills, your craft. If you are interested in dancing, rehearse as much as you want. There is no substitute to hard work, riyaaz, abhyaas.
What keeps you going when times are tough… What would you say is your strength?
My strength would be to be able to look for solutions when there is a problem. And knowing that it is not going to last forever. I think my experiences have taught me that. You know, in your adverse times whenever there is a problem, give that also as much love as you would give your happy times or like prosperous times. Because hardships are a part of life. The more you embrace it, the more peaceful you would be.
ON A WINNING STREAK
Designer Nachiket Barve seems to be the most at ease among threads and weaves, as he let Indian craftsmanship seep into his cinematic visions. With a recent National Award for costume design in the historical epic Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior, one can only imagine his attention to detail and unwavering passion for his craft. The artistic journey that began with his eponymous label in 2010 has soared and attained resounding success, and today, he is approached to chronicle the best of historical tales, letting costumes narrate a story of a bygone era. Excerpts:
“FOR ME, FASHION IS HOW PEOPLE CHOOSE TO EXPRESS THEMSELVES THROUGH THEIR CLOTHES AT A CERTAIN POINT IN TIME. WHEN WE ALL COLLECTIVELY FEEL LIKE THIS IS RIGHT, IT BECOMES FASHION” - Nachiket Barve
TANISHA BHATTACHARYA CHATS WITH DESIGNER NACHIKET BARVE, WHO WON THE NATIONAL AWARD FOR COSTUME DESIGN FOR HIS WORK IN TANAHJI
Let’s begin with the big National Award win. Were you expecting it?
I had no idea the national awards were being announced that day, and I got a call from Om Raut. He had called to congratulate me, and I said, “For what?” and he was like, “You’ve got the National Award!” So it was a very pleasant surprise. It is a very high honour to be given that kind of recognition for a film like this, which takes so much blood, sweat, and tears.
Period productions are particularly the mostdif cultbecause there’s the era to keep in mind, the larger-than-life characters to keep in mind. There is a common misconception that period films must be OTT, grand, or highly exaggerated—they can be, but I believe that my job as a film costume
transform these wellknown actors into believable characters. Om had a vision in mind for this film, and it was a very specific brief. It had been almost two years of research and I had been to museums across the length and breadth of the country: the Craft Museum in Delhi, SalarJung in Hyderabad. Even though the Victoria and Albert Museum in London is not open to the public, it does house original Mughal textiles - textiles worn by people during that time period.
Also, when making an action film, there should be a functional aspect in addition to the cinematic beauty. There is harnessing. The shoes must be authentic while also being comfortable for the actors to run in. There are all of these extra details, as well as things that should help you along the way. I wanted to use a palette that was historically accurate, so we used a lot of natural dyes. We experimented a lot with mineral colours and flower colours like indigo and gerua - the colours that should have been prevalent at that point in time.
designer is to Khan
What reaction did you get from Ajay Devgn, Kajol, and Saif Ali Khan to your vision?
The whole star cast—let’s start with Ajay Devgn. He is a man of few
words, but he is very intelligent, perceptive, and intuitive as well. He made a couple of suggestions at times -like altering the fit to make it look good on camera. Kajol is part Maharashtrian and she has only worn a nauvari saree at her own wedding. So she was so excited to wear all this stuff and tell this story. Saif Ali Khan was also so forthcoming. He took me to his house to show his ancestral jewellery and then he picked a ring which we had worn as a personal touch to the character. That was brilliant.
Samantha Ruth Prabhu wears your design in the iconic Oo Antava song. She looks stunning, and it’s a far cry from what you did in Tanhaji. I enjoy juggling several balls in the air. Whether it’s the brief for Oo Antava, which came from the film’s stylist, they wanted a certain kind of look and it was up to me to interpret it in a certain colour or texture, or Tanhaji, which is a completely different world; or what I do for fashion, which is for contemporary women today. Each one is correct in its own way.
You’re also done costumes for Adipurush by Om Raut. What other projects do you have planned? I have completed my work on Adipurush. I’ve also completed work on a multilingual film called Har Har Mahadev, which will be released on Diwali. I’ve also worked on a few characters in another contemporary Hindi film. The exciting thing about period films
is that there is a lot more research involved, as well as the fact that everything has to be created from scratch. You can’t just dash to the mall and buy something. As a result, it becomes both challenging and exciting.
“THERE IS A COMMON MISCONCEPTION THAT PERIOD FILMS MUST BE OTT, GRAND, OR HIGHLY EXAGGERATED — THEY CAN BE, BUT I BELIEVE THAT MY JOB AS A FILM COSTUME DESIGNER IS TO TRANSFORM THESE WELL-KNOWN ACTORS INTO BELIEVABLE CHARACTERS”With Saif Ali Khan With Amitabh Bachchan
UberLuxe
Objects of Ultimate Desire
DIVAS� DREAM NECKLACE
Richard Mille and Ferrari, a natural alliance forged by two brands obsessed with precision, reliability and innovation. To celebrate this partnership with Ferrari, RM pushed the envelope to the extreme and created the hyper-flat 1.18mm calibre RM UP-01 in collaboration with the laboratories of Audemars Piguet Le Locle. This is a limited edition of 150 timepieces.
The Gray ALTER EGO iPhone case is a design-conscious accessory for the latest Apple-branded smartphone that is intended to provide passive protection and an ultra-luxurious accent.
Carpe Diem Watch
The Louis Vuitton Tambour Carpe Diem watch is one of the latest timepieces from the high-end fashion house that is focused on providing fans and collectors alike with a somewhat macabre style to add to their collection.
the Eternal City through a modern design and
Embodying the ultimate Italian elegance, the DIVAS’ DREAM necklace is meant to epitomize the legend of a diva, with her mysterious and unforgettable allure. Quintessentially feminine and refined, the jewel’s fan-shaped motif draws inspiration from the mosaics of the Roman Caracalla Baths, reflecting Bvlgari’s integral bond with the Eternal City through a modern design and the vibrant sparkle of precious stones.
British perfumery Creed, creator of fragrances beloved by Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly, introduced this Royal Exclusive scent.
Luxury Austrian jewelry brand Swarovski has once again teamed up with Nike to release the Swarovski X Nike Air Force 1 Low, a crystal-clad version of the iconic sneaker.
The Meze Audio Empyrean is an open-back Isodynamic® hybrid planar magnetic headphone. Symmetrically placed on each side of the diaphragm, the neodymium magnets are specifically arranged into a Hybrid Array to create an efficient Isodynamic magnetic field required for a uniform activation across the whole diaphragm surface. This results in combining two independently shaped voice coils within the same diaphragm that deliver more selective acoustic performance to the various areas within the structure of the ear.
Gazelle ring in pink gold set with a 2.15carat heptagonal-cut E VVS2 diamond and onyx, paved with round and baguette-cut diamonds totaling 17.63 carats.
CRISTAL ET BRONZE Cygne Flament basin mixers
FLYING SPUR AZURE
Bentley
The Flying Spur Azure is more than just a spacious, handcrafted luxury sedan. It is a car that brings together everything Bentley knows about making driving effortless, while boosting the wellbeing of every occupant. It is a showcase of Bentley’s luxury technology and design, as well as its unique ability to combine all this with exhilarating performance.
handcrafted luxury sedan. It is a car that brings together making as this
SYMPHONY OVAL BATHTUB BY MAISON VALENTINA
Like a perfect symphony, the bathtub has gold-plated brass tubes stand out on this oval-shaped design, giving it the elegant yet luxurious look. The tub is made of white casted iron giving it a clean look that is perfect for any luxury bathroom project.
Available at Casa Milano Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Iconic Looks
Singh
Jennifer Lopez
Vuitton
Sabyasachi
Coach
Padukone
Bluemarble
Valentino
The Answer of a Luxurious
LookingWhyat the global high-end brands around the world, there is a story to tell and an interesting fact to share. While we are celebrating the luxury aspect of the fashion world, Hanan Yehia Mulazem goes back in time and discovers the answers of a why that we all might have asked once. For instance, why Hermès is orange?
QWhy Hermès is in Orange?
Founder: Thierry HermèsFounded: 1837, Paris, France
In the 1920s, Hermès packaging was designed in a cream shade with a gold foil logo and edging. In the mid-1930s, the faux box color was updated to a rich mustard or marigold yellow with dark chocolate brown edging and logo.
When World War II began in 1939, shortages struck Europe. Everything from sugar to silk to steel became terribly scarce and often rationed. The shortages were extensive in war-torn France and seemed to impact every facet of life and business, including the packaging available to the Hermès design house.
In 1942, Nazi-occupied France could no longer source the faux of Hermès packaging. Paper boxes made from cardboard could still be found, but cream and marigold dyes were no longer available. The only color the supplier could provide turned out to be a bold orange. The Hermès orange box was born from hardship and necessity and grew to become quickly recognized as a symbol of ultra-luxury worldwide.
QWhy Louis Vuitton burns their Bags every End-Of-Season?
Founder: Louis Vuitton
Founded: 1854, Paris, France
Louis Vuitton burns their unsold bags at every end-of-season. There are two main reasons for following this practice. The first reason is that Louis Vuitton avoids sales at any cost – the brand almost never discount anything and want to ensure that every buyer gets the product at the same price.
Secondly, Louis Vuitton destroys unsold merchandise as a stock control and theft prevention option. If they had a warehouse somewhere full of unsold and legacy stock, it would become a lucrative target for would-be fashion thieves.
QWhy Burberry started Trench Coats?
Founder: Thomas Burberry
Founded: 1856, Basingstoke, UK
The one piece that you always find in a fashion girl’s (or guy’s) closet is the Trench Coat, the credit for which goes to Thomas Burberry. He invented Gabardine, the fabric used in most trench coats, in 1880. Initially meant to protect soldiers from rain on the battlefield, it was after the war that the Trench went mainstream and eventually became a classic.
QWhy Versace has Medusa as an iconic logo?
Founder: Gianni Versace
Founded: 1978, Milan, Italy
Everyone knows that Versace’s logo is the head of Medusa, but few people know about its meaning. Medusa was the Greek mythological figure known for having hair made of snakes and eyes that could turn men to stone. It is said that Gianni Versace wanted to use Medusa because her devastating beauty made everyone fall in love with her. He hoped that his clothing would produce the same effect.
QWhy all Rolex Watches are timed at 10:10?
Founder: Hans Wilsdorf
Founded: 1905, London, UK
Rolex watch company – Rolex S.A – is owned by the Wilsdorf Foundation. Hans Wilsdorf was the founder of Rolex and established the foundation in 1945. The foundation was established to commemorate his wife Florence Frances May Wilsdorf-Crotty, who died in 1944. Hans Wilsdorf moved his 100% ownership of Rolex to the foundation in 1960. Since then, The Wilsdorf Foundation owns and controls the Rolex watch company to this very day. Today, Rolex donates a large part of its profits to charity and social causes.
And one of the most interesting facts about Rolex is that all the watches are times at 10:10. According to reports, the reason why the clock’s hands are time at 10 O’clock and 10 minutes because it shapes the letter V which represents Victory.
She’s aHero! Shruti Haasan
rank, opinionated and brutally honest… Shruti Haasan is known to be as bold off screen as she is when it comes to the choice of her roles on it. The talented star and multi-faceted artiste is also celebrated for balancing out her passion for music with her love for acting. With an impressive line-up of films ready to hit the marquee, the actress-singer recently dropped her newest single – ‘She’s a Hero’ – that’s become quite a rage for the message it sends across. We talked to Shruti about her latest song, her upcoming megaprojects and her call of refusing to compromise with roles if they don’t resonate with her beliefs!
Your new song ‘She’s a Hero’ has a beautiful message and it’s creating quite a buzz too. What were your thoughts behind it? I’m so glad to hear that, especially coming from a woman. You know, I write more autobiographically and my other songs are also more removed from a general sense of society. But this was written from the point of view of all women… when we all have those moments of self-doubt, but knowing we having this fire within us too. So the song starts with ‘she has a fever and it’s burning her up from the insides’ because it’s also our pain and our doubt and all of that is something that we women take forward and convert it into stronger energy, in essence. So it’s emotional, but there’s also an underlying tone of aggression.
How was the conversion from the lyrics to making it a single…
When I wrote this song originally, it was just me riffing on the piano. Then Altaf came on board and we decided to make a video. So, it’s just been like step-by-step. I would like to say that it was really amazing collaborating with Altaf, and the two producers, Karan Kanchan and Karan Parekh. We’re also extremely thankful to our creative director, Shantanu Hazareka who’s also a partner of our production company, Black. So, this is our first release. But the most special thing about this whole experience was having the beautiful young ladies from ‘Shiksha Sevak Foundation’ be in our music video.
What do you think is the most beautiful thing about being a woman?
I think that each of our stories are
very unique, but we’re all bound by certain traits, certain tropes that we face as women. And I think the most beautiful thing about women is there is a persistent perseverance in us, whether it’s like combating a period every month, to finding financial independence, to standing in society, in a more egalitarian way, I think that there are many triumphs to being a woman.
A lot of women nd themselves in your voice, where do you nd your strength from? I don’t know if it was like, ‘oh! I’m going to be brave and I’m going to say it’, you know, my process has been such that I kind of started out being this way as a kid. And then life kind of gets to all of us, in good ways and in bad ways. There was a time where people were like a film actor shouldn’t express themselves in such a way, and I was like ‘okay’, I gave that a try. I’m one of those people who’ll give it a try before anything else. And I felt that it wasn’t for me, because I have opinions about my life, so I wouldn’t say I’m an ‘opinionated’ person, because I don’t like to have opinions about other people’s lives and things I don’t know about. But, I like to be opinionated about my experiences, and
if that resonates with people, I’m doubly thankful for it.
What is the one advise you’d say never to follow?
I think that we live in a society where it’s important to be responsible citizens, it’s important to not hurt other people, but it’s very important to be true to your calling in this world and to be true to your voice. And that is something that’s important as an artiste, as a woman, as an individual, for a man for anyone really. So, I would say don’t listen to unsolicited advice. Ever!
Has there ever been a con ict between the real Shruthi Haasan and you as an actress - with the kind of roles that you have to agree to sometimes for the commercial aspect of your
profession?
Yes and no, because sometimes I’m in an environment that isn’t conducive to certain aspects of my personality. And then there are times I’m working with people that I’m proud to be working with. I would say proudly that I do not agree to a role if it stands in opposition and it’s not something I can fully kind of write off even as entertainment.
Like recently there was a dialogue in one of my films that referred to someone’s skin tone, darker skin tone, as being something negative and I just refused to say it, because that’s just not something I ever want to propagate, even as
another character.
So do you always take a stand! Well, I don’t want to interfere in the script, but you know, unless it was a character, or I’ve chosen from the beginning to play a character of a negative shade, that is a bigot and is terrible, then I can defend it. But if it’s just one offline, that’s the tricky thing right?
You have quite an impressive list of lms coming up… Salaar, Chiru154 with Chiranjeevi, and also NVK107! Yes, It’s amazing! With Salaar… I’ve been a huge fan of KGF because I love directors who create really convincing worlds, like where you get sucked into that world and they visually create this emotional painting and KGF had all of the guns and dudes and bros and yet it was so emotional at the core of it. And that’s why it kind of like worked across the country, and people liked it so much! And personally, I’ve enjoyed working with Prashant Neel (director) a lot! He’s been just fantastic and a lovely person as well. And then, working with Prabhas, is just wonderful. Apart from being like one if the biggest stars in the country, he’s just really down to earth and a wonderful human being. So every day on set, it’s just really fabulous. Coming to NBK107, working with a
legend like Gopichand Malineni again for the third time, it is like working with an extended family. And we have a very honest way of communicating, and it’s a comedy! And I love comedy, cause I find that the most challenging. And then Chiru154 has a really interesting character, so I’m really glad to be working with the team.
What genre appeals to you the most?
I think Indian cinema offers us the amazing opportunity to sometimes do more than any one genres in one movie. And that’s really amazing. But what appeals to me is, I would like to play roles that explore the grey parts of women, that don’t box women into stereotypical tropes and that are willing to explore the layers and the way that we are misunderstood as women. And to give darkness as much credence as light has given.
Have you ever thought of direction or writing something on those lines exactly, for women?
I don’t know if I’d say for women, but yes I do write outside of songwriting. I write on script ideas, I’ve been doing it for years. I’d love to direct too, I’m just really nervous about it, because it seems like a really difficult job.
…This (‘She’s a Hero’) was written from the point of viewof all women… when we allhave those moments of self-doubt, but knowing we havingthis fire within us too.
HIGH NOTE On a
The Cover Launch of the Filmfare Middle East September issue with the Cover Star Mrunal Thakur was one glamorous affair. The Bollywood star unveiled The Wedding Issue with Mr Rizwan Sajan Founder and Chairman of Danube Group along with Hari S Kaimal - Founder & CEO of Goldmead Hospitality and Sanju Nair - Partner & CFO of Goldmead Hospitality at one of Dubai’s most happening dining spots - High Note Pool and Sky Lounge amidst media and leading influencers of Dubai. Mrunal was also seen interacting with guests and fans at this memorable evening!
Living
Elli AvrRam Dreams Her
You have a very impressive line-up of films…
Yes, I am very excited and grateful. I never thought that these movies will end up releasing back-to-back. We started with Goodbye last year and started with Naane Varuven this year. So Naane Varuven which is my South debut released on September 29th and Goodbye is releasing a week later on October 7th. Both these films are very special to me, very close to my heart. And I’m just hoping that my audience, fans, my well-wishers will love my performance, especially since my roles in both are poles apart. I love to look very different in each and every film. And I also have Ganapath where again my look is very wild. And then there’s a fourth film as well which I haven’t announced yet which is again a very different look.
Making your debut in South with a star like Dhanush must be all the more special? I’m very excited about my debut in South because it’s actually been on my dream list. I love how they always keep their tradition alive in the films. And I really love that, also because of my love for India and its culture. And yes it’s been a dream come true to work with Dhanush and with Selvaraghavan Sir who is really a genius and a wonderful director. Dhanush as a co-star is amazing. More than a superstar, he is such a fabulous actor. And that for me is more of a high, to get to perform with such an amazing actor, because it brings out the best in you.
And you’re also working with Amitabh
Bachchan…
To tell you the truth, even in my wildest dreams, I never thought there will come a script where I will fit the role with Amitabh Bachchan Sir. And then this script comes and I nailed the audition and I’m doing a film with him. It was surreal. Like I used to dance to ‘Shava Shava’ and here I am acting alongside him. It took me some time to tell him about this because I’m a little shy but then I do remember that I told him. And he was just so sweet.
How have you navigated around the obstacles, considering it must not have been easy for you to break into Bollywood?
Yes, it’s been a roller coaster ride. It’s literally me being stubborn and not giving up. I just believed in myself, I know my art and I know what I can bring to the table. I love to act. It’s what I live for and I can’t really think of anything else. Also I am the kind of person who love challenges. Even though there have been moments where I really felt like I’m going to just pack my bags. But I have faith in my honesty towards my craft. And I’m not going to give up that easily. And because of those stubborn moments, God has just blessed me with such wonderful projects. So great things do come your way. You just have to keep on working on yourself. You just have to keep on believing in yourself and just keep patience. It might take time, but it will come to you. I am a proof of that. When I decided to go for my dream, everyone around me was like ‘but that’s just not possible’ And I was like, let me be
I’M TOTALLY A HOME-GIRL, A ‘GHARWALI’ (LAUGHS). I LOVE BEING AT HOME. JUST ME AND MY CAT. TO MAKE ME STEP OUT FROM MY HOME, THAT’S AN ACHIEVEMENT FOR THE OTHER PERSON…
the first one that first person who changes the possibilities in life. So no matter how weird or crazy or wild your dream might sound, if you really believe, it will happen.
Actors especially with dancing skills like you have, do get typecast. Was it challenging to break that mould?
Yes, Oh My Goodness! It’s really been a journey where I have worked very hard to just not be typecast, because that was happening initially. There’ve been a lot of projects which I have said no to just because I’ve been very clear with my goals and with my dreams and what I’ve actually come here for. I love to act and dance. I started off my career as an actress with Mickey Virus and then of course Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon
Then of course I’ve done a lot of songs, which I really loved. And then it was that phase of ‘Is she a serious actress or has she only come here to do songs?’ Dancing is just a part of something I love to do. But I’ve grown up watching Indian films and loving the fact that you as a heroine can act and also dance. You express in both ways and that’s what I connected to so much. But it took a while for filmmakers to understand that dancing for me is a plus point, not the whole deal! So I’m grateful that there were filmmakers who could look beyond my dance talent and see the actress in me. Like Selvaraghavan Sir, he took that leap of faith and believed in me for this role, because it’s a very performance-
oriented role.
When not shooting, what would we catch you doing… partying or being a home-body?
I’m totally a home-girl, a ‘gharwali’ (laughs). I love being at home. Just me and my cat. To make me step out from my home, that’s an achievement for the other person. I do love to meet my friends and celebrate and do adventurous things, but I would always prefer to be at home.
And what’s your take on love? For love, it definitely has to be a guy who’s going to pursue me, because I am so in love with my work, all my focus is on my art, what I want to create, and how I want to grow as an artiste. Also I’m addicted to my babies - to my Charles and Edward - my two cats. I don’t have time to
be entertaining someone. So the effort has to come from that person. And that person has to have a lot of patience.
Your Hindi is so clear. Is it something that you’ve been working on regularly? There’s actually a lot of confusion when I step out and I’m not dressed in Indian clothes and suddenly I start talking in Hindi and everyone just stares at me. They’re so confused like is she Indian? But it’s purely my love for the language, for the country, for the culture. I even studied Devnagri from Stockholm University before moving to India. And then when I came here, I just made sure that I talked in the language every day. I feel so comfortable talking in Hindi. It’s one of the languages I speak on a daily base for the last nine years.
That’s what Abhimanyu Dasani has been proving to be with his choice of roles in each screen outing! With an unconventional debut like the quirky Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota to the Dharma romantic-comedy Meenakshi Sundareshwar, the actor refuses to be boxed down in an image or be typecast in a genre. Brimming with excitement and ready to showcase the talent he harbours to the audience, he minces no words as he bares his heart out in a candid chat with Aakanksha Naval-Shetye
Breaker! Rule Abhimanyu Dasani
You made your debut with a rather unconventional movie - Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota!
Yes, that was an unconventional film, especially for a debut. It was a festival film, we got awards and standing ovations all over the world and it went extremely well.
Would you say that commercials lms are an easier bet?
No, in fact commercial films, that’s the hard task. You have to know how to dance, do action, romance, comedy, serious scenes, emotional scenes, and sabse tough
cheez hai lip synching for songs. That was so tough. So doing all these things and looking good while doing it… People think it’s an easy genre, but I honestly don’t think so. And more so now that I have worked in it, I know kitni mehnat lagta hai to make a commercial film. So I don’t think it’s an easy genre at all.
How was working on Nikamma, because on one hand you had Shilpa (Shetty) who came with so much experience and on the other hand there was Shirley Setia who made her Bollywood debut with it… Shirley is a superstar in her
own right! And there was a lot to learn from both these independent powerful women. I’ve been surrounded by a lot of powerful women all my life. My mom, my sister, even a lot of my friends are extremely independent and powerful women. So, it’s always great to have them around. So, both these women in the film have motivated me and inspired… dono se bahut kuch seekha hai maine. But the most surprising thing was that inspite of her experience, Shilpa ma’am was like the newcomer amongst us. Like she was most excited and her energy levels were right
up there on sets. Like its 5 am, we are shivering in cold and can barely wake up, but she was like ‘come on let’s shoot’! She’s fantastic, the energy that she brings on the set charges up everyone. When she enters the room, you end up looking at everyone and everyone’s smiling suddenly.
So you have found a friend in her? There’s too much respect that I have towards her, so I can’t say friend, but I’ve definitely gained someone in my life whom I would like to keep forever. She’s been amazing to me on the set and off set.
You have been unpredictable in your choice of roles…
I came in with the belief that each time you try and put me in a box, I’ll break it. So going from an unconventional debut to doing a romantic film with Dharma which every actor aspires to do, and then do an outand-out comedy film like Aankhmicholi, the idea is to not get stereotyped. So with each of my films even as a newcomer I have attempted to hit five to six different genres. And that’s something that I wanted to do when I was getting in movies. I don’t want movie-goers to be like ‘Abhimanyu Dasani type of films’. I love challenging myself as an actor and its very important for me to be responsible to do different things. That’s not the legacy I want to leave behind. It’s just something that I want to achieve just for myself. Aur kuch nahi. I’m trying to test my limits. And everything that I think I can’t do, I’m like - let me try.
Your mom (Bhagyashree) has never been swayed by fame. Is that something you’d want to imbibe from her…
Yes absolutely. There are certain family values and traditions that have been inculcated from the upbringing that I have received and it’s something that I want to stick with for the rest of
my life. I think these are important notions for me to be a principled person and not work on convenience and for that 30 seconds of fame or anything like that. This is something that I want to do for a greater purpose. Obviously, I’m enjoying myself and I’m extremely grateful that I get paid to do something that I love. But you know an actor is a ‘Kalaakaar’ which if you break down it’s ‘Kal ka aakaar’. So, we artists kind of shape the tomorrow. And I want my legacy to leave behind some hope in people’s life. When you watch my film, I want you to leave the theatre with a smile on your face. And that’s what I’m hoping to achieve with every film that I do.
Do you ever feel a pressure of projecting yourself in a certain way which is convincing for social media?
There are so many people telling me every day that you have to do this, you have to do that. But I just believe in being myself. There’s an individualistic, unique energy that I attach myself to in anything I do. Even when it’s my commercial ads - I like to have an essence of Abhimanyu and not an essence of a trend. Because do you want to be a ‘trend’ or do you want to be a ‘tendulkar’. Do you want to become the next hot thing for a few months, or do you want to leave a legacy behind? I’m fortunate to have this opportunity to be a part of this art form and I want to do something to push the envelope of the conversation. And if you are doing the same thing as everyone else, you’ll never be number one, cause you’re always following. So, I want to do something that is me. For me it’s always about adding value.
5
words that describe you the best!
Sincere, hardworking, funloving and romantic. I am very romantic. And a huge foodie. That’s my first love. And my childhood photographs will show you how much I love food.
What makes Dubai such a favourite with artistes from across the world?
Dubai has always been an attractive hub for artistes from across the world. It’s architectural innovation and futuristic approach, along with a blend of rich cultural heritage and history, are constant sources of inspiration for creators. The Museum of Future, which opened earlier this year, is a prime example of how we blend culture with a futuristic approach; and this unique positioning is a key part of Dubai’s approach to tourism as a whole.
The emirate is filled with beautiful landscapes, properties and attractions that are often tapped for films, and other media projects. Visitors also enjoy the quality of life Dubai has to offer, as well as the safety and security of the city. Many are now even choosing Dubai as a permanent base to live and work from remotely. We’re confident that design, culture and the arts will continue to be major attractions that drive interest in Dubai and fuel the growth of our creative sector.
Can you tell us about your initiatives for
Bringing the
world together!
forging cultural bridges internationally especially between Dubai and India by collaborating and encouraging talents from across borders? India has consistently remained a top source market for in-bound travellers, and visitors from India have always had a unique affinity towards Dubai. We welcomed over 850,000 overnight visitors from India between January and June. The UAE’s Golden Visa and our Retire in Dubai Programme are our key examples of initiatives that focus on creating cultural bridges. The Golden Visa enables foreign talents to live and work or study in the UAE; while the Retire in Dubai Programme in collaboration with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA-Dubai) encourages foreigners (aged 55 and above) to go beyond a recreational visit to Dubai, and instead settle down and call Dubai home.
Dubai has always been a Bollywood favourite when it comes to shooting its movies. Can you tell us something about the kind of support offered to filmmakers by the authorities here that makes Dubai such a preferred shooting destination?
One of the many reasons Dubai continues to be a top pick for movies and other media projects, is the city’s dynamic nature. It has so much to offer in terms
of varying locations, landscapes and facilities – all of which are important aspects for creators. We pride ourselves on offering visitors a seamless experience, when it comes to both work and travel. Strong air connectivity with all major Indian cities, geographical proximity, and the presence of a large Indian community are also key factors for travelers, business owners, and filmmakers to choose Dubai. The cultural richness of Dubai and its inclusivity, make the city such a warm and inviting place to visit.
Dubai also shares a special bond with Indian cinema and Emiratis have long been interested in Indian films and music. Most recently, the Dubai Film and TV Commission introduced an initiative ‘Ticket to Bollywood’ that supports Emirati scriptwriters from across the UAE and abroad to produce scripts for Bollywood. Initiatives like these will continue to enhance our cultural bond with India, and generate even more opportunity for creative projects, in the future.
The tourism industry has bounced back spectacularly well in Dubai, what do you attribute this to?
The growth in Dubai’s tourism sector in the first quarter of 2022 really outpaced the pre-pandemic
I HAVE VIVID MEMORIES OF WATCHING SHAH RUKH KHAN PLAY VILLAIN ROLES IN BAAZIGAR, DARR AND ANJAAM. I WAS DRAWN TO SHAH RUKH KHAN EVEN BEFORE HIS ROMANTIC FILMS AND MY ADMIRATION FOR HIM GREW WHEN I SAW HIM MAKE THE TRANSITION WITH FILMS LIKE DILWALE DULHANIA LE JAYENGE, DIL TO PAGAL HAI AND OF COURSE KUCH KUCH HOTA HAI
levels, this is the result of strategic measures taken under the guidance of our visionary leadership that has enabled our city to safely navigate and accelerate. For Indian travellers, Dubai is increasingly becoming a destination that is a one-stop for everything and for travellers belonging to all age groups be it Bollywood stars, corporate executives, ministerial delegations, or entrepreneurs. In fact, Dubai is the most preferred destination for Indian bleisure (business + leisure) travellers. Corporates are also looking for a place where they can strategize their growth initiatives.
What are the biggest challenges working in a post-pandemic time? We are glad that the Covid-19 situation has improved tremendously across the globe. Travel was restricted between countries for a while, as the safety of people was our utmost priority. But Dubai was amongst few of the first cities globally to reopen for tourism and business events, with a continued momentum by rapidly and efficiently rolling out a vaccine programme. Our Dubai Assured programme further ensured the safety of every traveller visiting the city. Our very first objective was to commence our National Vaccination Drive in December 2020. The government also undertook several initiatives to protect the health of its citizens and residents, while supporting the health, economic, social, labour, and environmental sectors. Through these strategic measures and several key initiatives such as our National Disinfection Program, drive-through test centres, surveillance, and contact tracing, we worked constantly to ensure the highest levels of protection and prevention to combat the spread. Further
to this, a large percentage of interactions in Dubai continue to be ‘touchless’, such as hotel check-ins, restaurants displaying the menus as QR codes, or the check-in for flights at the airport, in order to reduce the risk of infection. Most recently Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards 2022 has rewarded Dubai with three prestigious titles: #1 on the global list of Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards for Best Global Destination, the world’s #1 Destination for ‘City Lovers’, and #4 destination for ‘Food Lovers’. Winning the three accolades is a significant achievement for Dubai showcasing a testament to the dynamism, resilience, and accessibility of the city and how we continue to successfully provide moments of delight to residents and visitors, and overall, delivering the highest standards of service and best guest experience across all tourism touchpoints right from their arrival in the city and until they depart.
What’s your vision when it comes to boosting Dubai tourism globally? Travellers have always had a high level of familiarity and affinity with Dubai as it is also perceived to be a worldclass destination in terms of infrastructure, luxury, and experiences. India has always been a number one source for Dubai. In 2022 H1 the city welcomed over 7.1 Million overnight visitors globally out of which 858,000 were from India. Dubai’s progress over the last decade has inspired people around the world. Emiratis are hospitable by nature and we have welcomed people from different cultures and geographies for over a century now. Today, we have tourists specifically asking to learn about Emirati culture and lifestyle. We are also a melting pot of sorts. Today, over 200 nationalities call Dubai their
home and this confidence further enables us to showcase Dubai’s cosmopolitan characteristics and create opportunities for people from various parts of the world to connect and engage over shared values.
Please tell us about your interest in Bollywood and your cinema favourites?
I have been an avid Bollywood fan since a very young age. I was first drawn to Hindi cinema through Channel 33, a TV channel that aired Hindi films every Thursday back in those days. I have vivid memories of watching Shah Rukh Khan play villain roles in Baazigar, Darr and Anjaam. I was drawn to Shah Rukh Khan even before his romantic films and my admiration for him grew when I saw him make the transition with films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Dil To Pagal Hai and of course Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.
By mid-2000’s Bollywood started producing diverse films and my canvas expanded from Shah Rukh Khan’s romantic films to more off-beat films like Dil Chahta Hai, Lagaan and Company. My all-time favorite Bollywood films are Lagaan, Hera Pheri, Rang De Basanti, 3 Idiots, Gangs of Wasseypur and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara. These films have tremendous repeat value and I have great memories of watching them. Of late there hasn’t been a film that strongly resonated with me but I thoroughly enjoyed watching Pushpa, Jai Bhim and Gangubai Kathiawadi. Clearly there is more access to pan-Indian cinema and there’s a great deal of good content on OTT as well.
You have interacted and met so many stars, any interesting anecdotes or experiences that you can share with us?
My most memorable interaction so far has been with R. Madhavan. He is a very intelligent man! His sound knowledge of art, science and tech was really impressive. I particularly remember him explaining me concepts derived from Chanakya’s teachings. I was fascinated.
Did you always want to be an RJ?
This would sound too typical, but it was radio that chose me! I have a double Masters in Finance, probably would have been a high-flying Investment Banker or a CFO if Radio hadn’t happened!
So, when did Radio come calling! When I bumped into my yoda, who said, ‘May the frequency be with you’ (laughs). On a serious note, while I was still studying, a friend reached out and asked if I could record a voice-over for a commercial and though hesitant, I did it. The next thing I hear is that the Radio Station where that commercial played, liked my voice and wanted me to come over for an audition. 12 years to that day, I have hosted multiple Radio and TV shows in India and in the UAE.
What is the most fun part of being an RJ?
First up! There is not a single dull moment on the Radio and secondly, I get to be ‘me’, in the most unapologetic way! Like, if you are working in a corporation, you have a dress code, even actors have to play a character…
I, as a radio presenter, present MYSELF, my opinions, my thoughts, every single day of my life at work! Doesn’t that sound fun!
...And what’s the most challenging?
The good part is, people understand that my job is to entertain, little do they know, that I too can have a bad day. I too, due to what-so-ever reasons, might feel gloomy… and despite the mood being on the other side of the spectrum, I still have to ‘entertain’ without anyone getting to know what’s the real feel behind the mic. Over the years, the ability to switch has surely
Your daily dose of laughter!
An award winning TV and Radio presenter, a sports anchor and a popular name when it comes to hosting events - Shruti Chhangani aka RJ Shruti - is quite a force to reckon with when it comes to the mic. With an experience of over 12 years in the industry, her signature is her quirky sense of humor! While you can catch her on her number one rated daily show ‘Hashtag Trending’ on 89.1 Radio 4, Aakanksha Naval-Shetye caught up with her for an exclusive interview. Excerpts
improved, but emojis bhi toh saare ek tarah ke nahi hote hain…
Any thumb rule you follow?
Yes, parampara, pratishtha and anushasan! So these are the OG thumb rules you got to follow, if you are at AB’s Gurukool, but to churn out an outstanding radio show, just turn on the microphone and let the magic happen.
Tell us some high points as an RJ… No celeb interviews or interactions can beat what I have been able to do in a few instances. At an early stage of my radio career, I was able to crowdsource blood donors after a listener called in from a hospital with an urgent requirement for his mother. That day I understood the true power of the radio. Similarly, a child who had to discontinue studies as due to covid-19 his parents weren’t able to pay the school fees, we got him a scholarship of AED 20,000 through the medium of radio. When you get to do good for someone,
it invariably becomes a ‘High Point’ in your life, let aside your career. These and more such instances in addition to meeting the who’s who of various industries which has been instrumental in my personal growth as well.
Who’s the one celebrity you would want to interview on your show and what’s the question you would ask?
Dwayne THE ROCK
Johnson - Are you finished cooking, cause I can still sometimes smell what the rock is cooking! On a serious note, he is such an inspiration, a global superstar and yet so humble! Made a massive career switch, and super successful in each of his careers. Would want to know his mantra. Also, I’ve been a major fan from his wrestling days!
What would be your advice to aspiring RJs?
I’ll answer this question in two parts:
A: Don’t try to talk like an RJ, talk the way you talk, as that’s what we do, we talk the way we talk!
B: Don’t take yourself too seriously!
Danube Properties launched its latest campaign ‘My Dubai My Home’ bringing together 11 personalities from different nationalities who have created waves in their respective industries with compelling success stories. At the press conference Founder and Chairman, Danube Group Mr. Rizwan Sajan, shared how he wanted to deliver a powerful message on why Dubai makes for the ideal city for any expat to settle down and buy their dream home.
The campaign ties in Danube Properties’ lineage of realizing countless dreams of owning a home in Dubai whilst highlighting the inspiring journeys of well established personalities like Mo Vlog, Jumana Khan, Nina Ubhi, Ahmed Mokbel, Sadiq Ahmed, Chef Kelvin Cheung, Ahmed Haffar, Virdah Khan, Vlada, Ritu and Rinki Pamnani who proudly say #MyDubaiMyHome
Thiswas Sania Mirza’s dream when we asked her about one superpower that she wish she could have. We met her at the Danube Home Garden’s new catalogue launch. She spoke about her journey with Danube Home and how they worked wonders to get what she wants, and how Dubai was a welcoming place for her and husband - Shoaib Malik (former Pakistan cricket captain) to meet. Hanan Yehia Mulazem speaks to the tennis player, who’s actually in love with everything that has to do with interior designing.
I wish to disappear for an hour everyday
Why did you choose Dubai as a home?
Well, honestly, Dubai was a great commute for me and Shoaib when we got married 12 years ago. It was the easiest way to meet and catch a flight and come to. We travel for 13 weeks every year, so we had Dubai as one stop location to meet. Dubai was our first choice, and we knew it that once you live in Dubai it will be difficult to leave. For me, I will always travel between Dubai and India, and for him, he always travels between Dubai and Pakistan
While we are celebrating Danube’s Garden collection, what is the element that Danube Home added to your house, and transformed it from a house to a home?
I think everything Danube Home did to me helped me to transform my house to a home, it will be unfair to specify one thing only. They actually helped me to have the house of my dreams when my house was empty. I had planned how every room in my house should look, and they helped me in getting my plans done. Like I have a room in my house that I wanted it to be in full black and white decoration, even I wanted the walls to be in black and white, not for once they said it’s not possible or no we can’t get this done. Whatever I’ve asked for they made sure that I get it. They worked wonders around my dreams and turned it into reality. Actually, this is the magic of the interior design industry, they work around with what you want, not the opposite.
What is your favorite spot in your house?
My bedroom and the outdoor. I think these two places where I spent most of the time at
If you could have a superhero power, what would it be? Wow! Only one? (laughs). I would love to be able to disappear. Sometimes I feel like I want to disappear for one hour a day and just be myself.
If you were not in tennis, what would your career be?
I would be an interior designer. Actually, I was the interior designer of my own house, I have chosen every piece and decorated every corner making sure that my house looks exactly how I have imagined it.
assion fuels Purpose
If you ask Mateen about his rule in the business world, it will be “Passion fuels Purpose”. We met Mateen Ali Mohammad at his new restaurant in Oud Metha, a venue that promises an authentic experience of Indian cuisine and culture, characterized by exquisite ingredients and attention to detail. Read on to know how Mateen’s turned his dreams to reality, and how he kept control over food wastage.
Hanan Yehia MulazemWhy did you choose Dubai for your business?
To me, Dubai is a melting pot of rising dreams, a homegrown culture, and a refined lifestyle. It is indeed the perfect destination to start a new venture as the city brings so much exuberance into the economy. Our visionary leaders are the greatest support system and source of inspiration for this booming economy. Dubai is not only a second home but also a safe home to many ex-pat businessmen who have arrived here to make a living.
How do you see the huge competition that exists in the food business?
Primarily, I don’t see the food
business here as a competition. This is my passion and I see it as an opportunity to share my traditional taste and cuisine with a vast cultural bandwidth. However, from a business point of view, the food industry in any part of the world is highly competitive; but this only pushes several entrepreneurs to get creative and qualitative by bringing the best to the table. As a business, we believe in making customers feel at home with passionate service and consistent taste. This will help any restauranteur to achieve sustainable growth.
What is your definition of success?
My definition of success is relative to different roles. As an entrepreneur, success to me is an amalgamation of three things: Acquiring satisfied returning customers, providing a healthy and happy environment for my employees, and creating an unparalleled identity for my home-grown brand Mateen’s and The Sheesha Factory.
How do you deal with the food leftovers?
Food wastage…. a great challenge we encounter on a day-to-day basis in the restaurant industry. As the famous saying goes “Today’s Wastage is Tomorrow’s Shortage”, reaping on the same thought, we take this as a challenge as well as an opportunity to give back to society. We have joined hands with the Dubai Municipality and installed a Food Bank at our outlets wherein we recoup and store food leftovers. Every day we have several workers coming to get their daily meals at our food bank.
From Electronic engineering to F & B, what made you take this step?
I would say, I’m a very good dreamer. My dreams are my best friends as well as my worst
enemies, as they often don’t let me sleep. Well, it all started with a dream which later went on to become a passion. I built a passion to serve people the best hospitality and taste that they ever experienced. I was amused by getting associated with a wonderful team that carried the same passion.
What is the quality that every businessman should have?
A pragmatic vision, an honest approach, and a willingness to constantly learn can take you a long way. Adding on…being genuinely passionate about what you do is very important. It gives you the drive to move in the right direction. Finding purpose in what you do helps in achieving clear a vision of your goal.
If you can give advice to someone who is starting their business, what would it be? Firstly, don’t be afraid of failures. If you won’t try, you can’t win. Embrace the journey of ups & downs. Secondly, Research well, weigh your pros & cons, seek professional advice and always be open to learning. Learning never ends! Lastly, find your inner motivation and purpose. Deeply understand yourself and if the business that you wish to jump into is really what you are passionate about. As it’s rightly said, Passion fuels Purpose.
ARomantic
affair
Glimpses from the wedding celebrations of Enrica Bhatia and Nitin Shroff (#CrazyENlove) at the Raf es Udaipur, India.
Bringing the best to the Table!
One of Dubai’s most popular and loved Food Bloggers Rafeez Ahmed talks to Aakanksha Naval-Shetye about the success of his hit page TableeForOne and reveals what keeps him ahead of the curve in the blogging scene. The successful blogger also chats up about kickstarting his new page TableForTech and shares some tips for newbies
to be the first solo male Indian blogger in Dubai to hit 100K followers in just 15 months.
Tell us about your journey as a blogger?
It all started one-anda-half years ago in January 2021 when I quit my job in Ras Al Khaimah and moved to Dubai for better professional prospects. While I was waiting to start a new job, I got on TikTok and that’s where my journey began.
You are a well-known food blogger with the rather successful food blogging page ‘TableeForOne’ and have recently ventured in tech blogging too, how is it combining two such varied passions?
I wouldn’t completely call myself a tech blogger yet because it’s still a new venture, called ‘TableForTech’. I created this page because learning and using various tech is one of my passions. But when it comes to Food Blogging, I’ve always been a big-time foodie even before I started my page. I’ve been living away from my family since 2014. So I end up eating out most of the time and that’s what motivated me to start the page. For me it’s the most
organic extension of who I am and what I like.
And Dubai is hub for both – Food and Tech!
Absolutely! Especially when it comes to food blogging. Having lived across Middle East, I know for a fact that no country gives a wider opportunity to bloggers like Dubai does. You can find a new food blogger here every two days.
Also, when it comes tech blogging, yes it’s once again a hub. But there aren’t many well-known non-Arab speaking tech bloggers, so, that’s why I believe there’s a huge scope for tech blogging here.
Yes, being in Dubai is a boon for bloggers, but there’s also high competition then isn’t it?
Yes, that’s true. But to be honest if you are consistent with good content and precise with your work, you will end up building your own set of loyal audience and followers that will keep growing. That’s exactly what happened with my page. Inspite of lots of other known bloggers and new bloggers coming up every day, I emerged
What would you say is the USP of your pages and handles ?
I would say quality and authenticity. If there’s one’s thing I know that I can confidently say I’m quite better in something compared to other pages is, the quality of the filming. Being a photographer and a videographer myself that’s something I’m always concerned about. And I tend to keep the content very authentic so people can relate to it.
So, what’s been the most challenging part of being a Food Blogger?
The difficult part is maintaining a healthy lifestyle. I myself have gotten into little worse health conditions because of this lifestyle largely. In food blogging you’re at a point where you end up eating even if you really don’t want to. But over the past few months I’ve taken strict measures to take care of my health without compromising on my content.
What’s the one advice you’d give to all aspiring bloggers?
It would be to stay as consistent as possible, because the competition
is just too high and there’s plenty of talent out there. So, if you want to stand out from the crowd, make sure people are aware of you frequently and to do that make sure you are consistent. Because that’s one thing I follow always not just for blogging. CONSISTENCY IS THE KEY!
Top 3 mistakes to avoid...
First, stop trying to be like others. Don’t copy what others are doing. In this case you will not be able to create a true identity for yourself and it would be difficult for people to engage with your work. Get inspired but don’t copy.
Second, do not stress yourself to be out there always. It’s okay to take breaks, it’s okay if your videos aren’t performing as expected. It’s okay to go through this because it’s all a learning process. And third, never put out false or baiting information. Because this will lead people to lose their faith in you and your content.
One hack you swear by… Honestly I don’t have any such hacks (laughs). I just make sure I’m always up-to-date with the trends and make sure I get to be one of the firsts to always cover any new things coming up.
A
Fairy Tale Wedding
ضرع لاجم
ميمصتلا ملاع لخدت دق
يض�فن ليختأا ةركف ءايزألأا ميمض�ت
نأا
اذل .لبقتض�لما في اهيلإا هتجا
بغرأا ءيض� وه ءايزأا ممض�م حبض�أا
نأاب بغرأا .لبقتض�لما في هب مايقلاب
اهليختأا يتلا ميماض�تلا كلت لعجأا
ةض�نمو عقاولا ض�رأا ىلع ةقيقح ميمض�ت نم نكتمأا نأا .ءايزألأا ض�رع
ةلاض�ر لمتح ةلماكتم ةلماك ةعوممج
،نلايم فيو يبد في اهض�رعأا نأا ،ةيوق
ض�رع ،اذه يملح ققحأا امدنع ىتحو
هنع فقوتأا نل ءيض� وه ءايزألأا
ةدعاقلا يه ام
ملاع يف
ام ،تايدحتلاب
يتلا ةلاسرلا
لكل اهيمدقت
هذه أرقيس
دجوي ثيح لماع
نحن ،تلق امك
نأ� كيلع
بغرأ�و .كلبقتص�م لجأ� نمو كلجأ�
�وبحي
عيملج� يركذتب
افطل ثركأ� �ونوكي نأ�و ثركأ�
رجاتم ترتخا اذامل نواعتلل Watsons
قلاطإ لجأ نم مهعم
ةصاخلا Nimya تاجتنم ؟يرصح لكشبو كب
ةيراجتل� تاملاعل� ددجأ� نم ايلاح مه عم نواعتل� بحأ�و ،قوص�ل� في
مهف ،ةديدلج� ةيراجتل� تاملاعل�
نوص�طعتم مهنأ� امك ،�دج نونواعتم
حيرم مهعم لمعل� .يلثم حاجنلل
.في�دهأ� عم قباطتت مهف�دهأ�و �دج
رﺎﺠﺣﻷا هﺬﻫ
ﺮﻳرﺎﻘﺘﻟا تﺮﻬﻇأ .رﻻود تﻮﻜﺳ ءﺎﻳزﻷا ضرﺎﻋ .ةﺪﺴﻛﻷا تادﺎﻀﻣ ﻰﻠﻋ جﻼﻌﻟا اﺬﻫ رﺎﻜﺘﺑﺎﺑ مﺎﻗ يﺬﻟا ﻮﻫ ﺎﺑرﻮﺑ ﺖﻨﺴﻨﻴﻓ ﻞﺜﻣ تاﺮﻫﻮﺠﻤﻟﺎﺑ ﻪﺟﻮﻟا ﻚﻋد ﻦﻤﻀﺘﻳ يﺬﻟا ﻚﻟذ ﺲﻴﻟو ،نﻮﺤﻄﻤﻟا تﻮﻗﺎﻴﻟاو سﺎﻤﻟﻷا ﻪﺟﻮﻠﻟ
ÒãµdG .É¡H º∏MCG »àdG QGhOC’G øe ÒãµdGh ÒãµdG …ód AGƒ°S .º¡©e πª©dG ‘ ÖZQCG øjòdG ÚLôîŸG øe GPEG øµd .܃æ÷G ‘ hCG ájóæ¡dG ɪ櫰ùdG áYÉæ°U ‘ ÉeGQO πãe ÉÃQ ∫ƒbCÉ°ùa ,IóMGh QÉ«àNG ≈dEG äQô£°VG å«M ájóæ¡dG …GhOhôH ≈≤«°Sƒe πãe ,ájóæg ¢übQ .∑ÉJÉc á°übGQ á«°üî°T Ö©dCG כ כ א א א ,≥aGƒàf ‹É«ÿG ™HÉ£dÉH ™àªàJ »àdG ΩÓaC’Gh ÉfCG ,º©f Gòg øY á∏°üØæe ÊCÉH âbƒdG ∞°üf É°†jCG »æfC’ ô©°TCG É¡d ¢ù«d »àdÉc hóHCGh ,á¶≤«dG ΩÓMCG ‘ ¢û«YCGh ⁄É©dG IÉ«◊G º¡aCG »æfCG ‘ ÖÑ°ùdG ƒg Gògh .⁄É©dG ‘ á∏°U ôNBG ´hô°ûe ≈∏Y πªYCG ÉfCG ,™bGƒdG ‘ .ó«L πµ°ûH ’ â°ùd »æfCG ’EG ¬æY ÒãµdG ∑ÈNCG ¿CG ™«£à°SCG ’h É°†jCG ™∏£JCG ÉfCG ,∂dòd .º∏«ØdG Gòg ‘ ájOÉY áfÉ°ùfEG QhO πãeCG .É°†jCG ´hô°ûŸG Gòg ≈dEG É≤M כ א א א א א
¿B’G øjôNBG Úª∏«a ≈∏Y πª©dÉH É«dÉM ΩƒbCG ,Éæ°ùM …CG øY ∞°ûµdG »ææµÁ ’ øµd .ÖjƒdG ≈∏Y Úà∏°ù∏°Sh