MIND Mag APR 2018 Issue #4

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‘Let us be shy no longer. Let us go to our strength. Let us offer hope. Let us tell the world that a new age is not only possible but probable.’ - Ronald Reagan

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Team and Contributors Sukiran Singh, Editor Juhi Ali, Editor-at-large Simarjot Wadhwa, Junior Editor Supreet Khurana, Creative Executive Sanjana Prabhu, Content Writer Vrishti Nadkarni, Content Writer Shubhankar, Photography Assistant

Contributers Kedar A., Photographer Ranveer Dua, Photographer Karan Nevatia, Photographer Ruchir Vashishtha, Photographer Valene D’souza, MUAH Tarsha Khorana, MUAH Ambica Kukrety, MUAH

Thanks to Grandmama’s Cafe All the Artists featured in the Issue.

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CONTENTS

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16

Jasmeet S. Bhatia

Balraj

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28

Kaneez Kurka

Dream

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Taste of Titans

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Syal

A Girl’s

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JIM SARBH

Animal Spirit

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Anushka Shahaney 4 Issue #4 April 2018

84 Shasha Tirupati

Editor’s note

In the times of depressing Indian television, the way forward for entertainment is, well, not television. With over 225 million regular, mostly young, YouTube users in India, the dynamics of Entertainment is changing. YouTube has given a platform to alternate talent, which were given none before. There’s a lot creativity out there, that deserves to be heard, is now getting a chance.

Apart from YouTube, the creation of content apps has lead filmmakers and artists to find work in the form of digital content. The budgets are less as overheads are less expensive, and the directors and artists get more creative freedom as there are no control or censor laws on internet.

This is the dwelling time to hop onto the digital bandwagon, as the content is promising, entertainers know what the audiences want and are really not scared to shy away from their ideologies and principles. Well, everyone knows how powerful the internet is; elections are won on its might. Enough said.

The April 2018 issue is our biggest issue yet, and features some great talent across the digital Horizon. We are quite proud to pull off this one.

Sukiran Singh Editor, M.IND Mag

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NEW AGE ENTERTAINMENT

by Vrishti Nadkarni

We can see robust change in the viewing habits of the audience, making us conclude that digital distribution of the content over the web and mobile has become new trend. They can effectively meet the demands of the modern age audience going several steps ahead of the traditional methods of viewing (TV and Cinema). Over the last few years, mobile technology has tremendously advanced, facilitating the greatest shift in the viewing habits of the audience. Today’s audience has the freedom to choose from multiple range of contents, along with that, where and when they want to watch the content. While today’s digital age generation deems these choices highly necessary, technology has provided them with the best way possible.

Along with the digitalization of media, there is a massive growth in media platforms as well, in terms of viewing content. Over-the-top video that started as a complementary service in the Television business, has been taken over by the multi-billion dollar Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD) industry. This particular evolution of trends doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon. Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime have emerged as new age entertainment giants and virtual multi-channel video programming distributors are re-writing. Netflix has a phenomenal success over the years globally. Its recent expansion targets includes among them, which is the home for the second largest internet users.

One of the propositions of technological progress is that it democratises entertain-ment, catering to masses that was once reserved only for the elites. Better quality entertainment is available to people than before. At the same time, individuals across

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the globe can find an audience much more easily than it was previously possible.

Even more remarkable is that mass entertainment can be tailor-made, there is something for everyone and at any time that suits them. The success of Netflix, Hungama Play, Hotstar, multiple YouTube channels and web series among other digital streaming services have highlighted the fact that Indian audience is ready and excited for engaging content. Their preferences of content is shaping and paving the future of digital content. The increase in the online interaction has also transformed content on television, with media houses now aiming to provide consumer-centric content along with generic melodrama.

Digital technologies have fundamentally altered the nature and function of media in our society by reinventing old practices of public communication, evading traditional media, and more importantly, challenging its privileged role as gatekeepers of news and entertainment. The rise of new age entertainment and entertainers have irrevocably altered the formation of communities, opinions and influences on people. This media landscape is technology led and it has shifted the way consumers perceive the world around them. As media is being digitally accessed, and traditional media model’s package and distribution is unravelling, it has started to follow the needs and trends demanded by the consumers. With the space for online content , the scope exists for personalization of all forms of content, and end users will be empowered and have greater influence. It can’t be emphasised enough that technology and its current applications have evolved at a lighting pace and is transforming media and entertainment. Everyone involved in the production of creative content, like photographers, journalists, writers, and musicians, knows that nothing is, as it was earlier.

These new age entertainers support transformational ideas that promote quality journalism, media innovations, and engaging communities.

The changing digital entertainment, locally and globally, bring with it certain challenges and opportunities. Even the producers of digital entertainment don’t go unaffected. This has changed the dynamics of our media culture. As far as enterprises, institutions, administrations, organizations, groups, families and individuals start their own web presence, they become media on their own, they also become sources for traditional media and delivering of alternative coverage. In many cases, they produce strong media criticism, opinion about how issues are covered. The blogging phenomenon represents the ultimate challenge for the old communication system because it integrates both the new features of the digital world and a wide democratization in the access to media with a universal scope. A new ‘model’ is potentially on the horizon that may include elements of ‘shared’ resources and apportioned rewards both in terms of recognition and monetary value. There will of course be resistance on both sides – seismic changes in the production and economy are always disruptive but the media landscape is already changing shape and the power of mass collaboration combined with the Internet will ensure that it never look the same again

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The culture of everyday life has become entwined with the Internet. The flourishing of online entertainers and artists offers a striking example of how the construction of significant relationships can draw on the resources provided by the digital and social media platforms. The intermeshing of the virtual with the “real” is part of the reality of contemporary culture. Bedroom culture is the product of two interrelated and sometimes contradictory developments. On one hand the confinement of the youth indoors is the outcome of adult initiative. At the same time the specific form that bedroom culture assumes is frequently shaped by young adults desire to create their own space and enjoy a measure of independence from adult control. Arguably it is through the medium of digital technology, social media, and online entertainment that some people seek to regain some of the freedoms that they have lost.

This culture represents the reversal of the family-centred television viewing in a common room. Media usage has become increasingly privatized and the new generation plays an influential role in the construction of the new media home environment. The bedrooms of many young people are media-rich environments that is the growing proportion of teenagers have computers in bedroom with online access. Highly motivated to create a separate autonomous space where the youngsters can experiment and develop their personality, seek to evade parental control. The flourishing of bedroom culture encourages the privatization of media usage as young people attempt to forge a world that is distinct from that of their parents. Through pursuing the project of self-socialization, young people attempt to personalize their media to ensure that it directly relates to their interests.

Apprehensions about the impact of digital entertainment portals brains of the youth.

Digital entertainment serves as a metaphor through which wider social and cultural anxiety are communicated. The online content is also an object of glorification by its technophile advocates. Time and again the public is informed that the content on the internet is transforming human life towards more enlightened and creative existence.

The internet and digital entertainment are very powerful tools that can influence and shape human behaviour. The internet has played a significant role in the recent outbreaks of social protests and resistance. Many observers have concluded that the content space online media possesses the potential to promote public participation, and engagement. No doubt that the new age entertainment are powerful instruments for mobilization. However, it is not its own technological imperative that allows the online media to play a prominent role in social protest. Rather the creative use of the digital entertainment media is a response to aspirations and needs that pre-exist or at least exist independently of it. This technology ought to be perceived as a resource that can be utilized by social and political movements looking for a communication infrastructure to promote their cause. Often the term “sudden radicalization” is used to highlight the power of online content media to swiftly convert otherwise confused youth into hardened liberals. The relationship between the digital entertainment media and radicalization is both an interactive and dynamic one. The social

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media provides a medium through which pre-existing information or sentiments can gain greater clarity, expressions and meaning. It provides a medium for the kind of interaction that can throw up new ideas, new symbols, new rituals and new identities.

The digital entertainment has got people crafting their own forms of media, and creating their own content without waiting for traditional institutions or production houses to sanction it. Now a new breed of empowered, talented young people can make films, art work, records, and books from their bedrooms in the form of blogs ,online photos, albums, personal channels or websites. A tidal wave of creativity has flooded the cyber space. Tools like iMovie, Final Cut Pro, Garage Band, Cubase, and Photoshop have democratised creativity, making it easier and simpler for people to make films, art, and music in the comforts of their bedrooms. Social media networks and content aggregators have a strong presence in uplifting and hosting this generation’s creative output like on MySpace and Youtube. The popularity of these creative reservoirs is testament for the generations that want to put their own self-expression out there and receive reassurance and approbation from their peers in the form of comments and links. And nothing illuminates this new age of creativity, empowerment and interactivity more than the explosion of the Youtube and online TV. Vlogs, or online videos and streaming are curated by individuals and published on the web, have been the marketing buzzword of the last few years and their number, influence and relevance increases day by day.

Technology has opened doors that have created a new mind set amongst young people. The rise of digital entertainment and entertainers has occasioned a new set of values. The audience has moved from the “importance of me” to the “importance of us”. There has been a realization that to get ahead, life should be about participation, involvement and openness rather than aggressive individualism, sharing their opinions, constantly being connected to the world, communicating frequently, and generating debates. Some can say that these digital content space keep the public involved in an informed disclosure on matters of public importance, maybe on a large scale. Content, plot, or propaganda disguised as news is flourishing, thought interaction of the youth with the digital domain teaches something valuable, it can also expose them to grave risks. The digital age has arrived with a set of big communication challenges for traditional mainstream media; new relations with audience in the sense of interactivity; production with new languages in the lines of multimedia and introduction of new grammar with reference to hypertext. But the media revolution and evolution not only changes the landscapes of the existing player of media, it opens up opportunities for new mass communication systems to wide range of new players along with people associated with it. ***

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NEW GEN COMEDIAN

JASMEET SINGH BHATIA Photographed by Sukiran Singh Styling by Supreet Khurana Interview by Sanjana Prabhu

From coding in a corporate company to being a YouTube star – how did it happen?

People often tell that leaving a job and doing comedy is a big decision. But honestly, I was not losing a lot. I used to work for Infosys earning around three and a half lakh per year. So even if i was leaving the job, it wasn’t a big deal. It was a big step to put down the papers and leave but I had already got the confirmation from TVF. I was into coding when I was younger but college changed the whole perception about the course. It was hard to catch up with every new update in the IT field. I was always encouraged comedy wise.

What was it about comedy, that made you think - This is where I belong?

At that time, I didn’t think about anything other than shifting my place. I was associated with YouTube channel during my college days. I had a natural knack for comedy and I could make people laugh. It was the one thing I was sure I could do. I was fortunate to finish my engineering at an early age. When I left the job, I thought about figuring everything out later.

Which medium do you prefer- theatre, TV, cinema or web? Why? I guess the web because there is maximum liberty on the net. If you have money, you can make good content without passing it to anyone. There is no censor or authorization. Sometimes there are topics you want to talk about and people hold you back, for example the Padmavati controversy. You don’t have to go through such mess ups on the web. In addition, I have been doing web for a long time so I know how things work and how a show is made. I have been studying film making for the past two and a half years. I have been working on my skills for writing scripts and have also taken online Master Class in acting.

The web gives you an experimental stage. Even if you don’t have a polished piece of your work, you can put it online as a trial and people will appreciate you. These people will be beside you on your journey. It is a pretty encouraging medium.

What is the difference between writing stand-up and writing sketches?

Both of them actually have a common rule; the joke formation should work and people should find it funny. With sketches, you can stick to stand-up comedy ethics and finish off a 5-6 minutes sketch soon. But for an episode of 20-25 pag10 Issue #4 April 2018

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Suit : Dalip & Sacorina Shirt & Belt : Indian Terrain 12 Issue #4 April 2018 Bow Tie: The Stylease

es in a web series, structure and craft is required to be followed. Screenplay writing takes a lot of focus. If you are not a good reader, you may find it tricky for stand-up comedies.

How did your association with TVF/ Screen Patti begin?

I had taken my CAT paper and got 96.26 percentile but didn’t get through. I worked really hard for the exam but was bummed out. I felt like I wasn’t meant for this field and I was doing something wrong. So I thought about trying something else. I had a group of friends I would chill with. So we started a YouTube Channel called QLC (Quarter Life Crises). We were still teenagers and started making a series called Hypocrisy which was about the basic attitudes of people we saw in our day to day life. It catered to the stuff like ‘gay rights being legalized’. The series was humorous but we didn’t get much response. So we decided working on something related to the home life. We made our last video called ‘Driving with Daddyji’ which was relatable to the society. That video blew up and finally after cracking the rule of reliability, I realised how the platform works. The video got more than 30k views and I received an award from Sukhvinder Singh as well.

Your hit song “Dilli De Sardaarboys” created waves all over. How did the idea strike and how did you decide to work on it?

We were listening to ‘Starboy’ on repeat and it struck. In Delhi, everyone has a generic representation. Sardaars in Delhi are not known for their coolness.

So I thought about capturing this and staging the fun they actually do. Punjabi songs always have brands and girls which is silly. So I decided even if I take big shot names, I would add them in the grey market (lyrics). We made a Gen X Punjabi song which stood out. Jasdeep has a habit of ruining songs and he was a huge contribution for the song because he, sort of, gave the title. We wrote it with all our heart and soul. Any sardaar can relate to this.

This industry has a constant battle between Creative and Commercial. How do you maintain the balance?

If you have the commercial resources, be as creative as you can. If you don’t have the commercial resources, be creative enough to get that commercial resource. I am from an upper-middle class background. My family gave me as much as they could afford. I wanted to go outside and learn film making. So I thought I would do the commercial work here so that I can pursue the creative outlook later.

What do you have to say about “Comedy as a tool for activism”?

In India, comedy has always been there. Jaspal Bhatti was amazing in satires and a pun was always used as the device to talk about the malpractices in government offices. Stand-up comedy is about speaking the truth and making jokes around it so that people can relate and be on the same page. It addresses the elephant in the room.

Do any vloggers influence you? If yes, Name a few.

I wouldn’t say any of them influence me but I do enjoy some of the vloggers

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work. I admire Logan Paul’s 365 day vlog where he vlogged everyday for an en tire year. I respect his consistency. Now he has some activity issues.

How do you deal with trolls?

I laugh. I have always been following the British style of comedy actors and everyone takes it in a playful manner. I crack jokes on myself as well which makes it easier. Sometimes I do have the urge to reply to them, but resisting to them is maturity and that is a better path.

Why, do you think, that comedy is the only genre (apart from music) that is doing well comparatively, on Indian YouTube space? Why not thriller, drama, romance and other genres ?

Things like stand-up comedy, singing and rapping are individually grown talents.

You can make your own YouTube channel, sing covers and become popular; you don’t need anybody’s help. That’s the same with stand-up comedy as well. I’m not saying that you don’t have to put in any hard work. It takes equal amount of talent and dedication. It takes a team to tackle the other genres. You have to have concrete script which has all the suspense and how you go about the suspense. These things do need a group of people and a process to go through. In India, we visualise and conceptualize but when we actualise, they tremble.

Does any other genre than comedy, entice you?

I love drama. I like heightening an emotion more than it should be. When I thought about acting, I always wanted serious roles.

Tell us about your experience with Dharma Productions.

It was my first time working for something so big, so I felt like an alien in the crowd. I was very ecstatic with all the sources available. I was given so much exposure with so many celebrities around. It wasn’t taxing at all but timings were something everyone was strict about. I got this movie within 3 months after shifting into Mumbai. I was still trying to get my way around the city when I was offered a role in the movie. It was pretty chill. It was the best thing I could do that summer. I also worked for Secret Superstar which was different. We had strict working grounds but it was mad fun there as well.

What other projects are you working on?

I am working for a show called High School Comedy. It was a nice experience working with well known name in the industry like Ram Kapoor and Gopal ji. My bucketlist has all the checks now. So, let’s see what I can find for the future.

Based on your own experience, what will you advise youngsters trying to make a mark on YouTube ?

Figure out what you want. Don’t be confused and have a half mind on doing something. That is a dangerous state. Just Google if you can’t make up your mind; you’ll get fifteen suggestions in one go. Find out your interest and work on the craft. Even if you have raw talent, nothing can dissuade you from taking on the challenges. Be sincere, put videos as frequently as possible. People lose interest if you don’t update. Reduce obscenity.

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Jacket and Waistcoat : Dalip & Sacorina Belt and Pants : Indian Terrain Shirt and Shoes : Max

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NEW GEN COMEDIAN

BALRAJ SYAL Photographed by Sukiran Singh Styling by Juhi Ali Interview by Sanjana Prabhu

What’s the state of stand-up-comedy in India?

I think it’s really good. It has deteriorated a bit since last 8-9 months and I think that’s because digital and television are not jelling together. Overall, it is actually at a really good stage.There are individual shows now which wouldn’t happen before. In the past comedians would accompany singers on tours and fill in for them during the breaks or would open the night and disappear. There are ticketing shows which last for 2 hours now. Stand up events have risen and people call comedians to perform on different occasions.

You’ve been doing stand-up for years now. How much do you need to prepare for a gig?

You have to prepare a bit. If you are performing for half an hour, you have to be prepared with two-hour content because in the first five minutes you just throw different kinds of content, then you realize which one works for the audience.

You have to be ready with all the spices in your pocket. If you need to beat the stress, you have to go on stage very well prepared. Make sure you have done your research before the curtain calls you. Make sure people present there can relate to the content.

Have you ever been heckled? How do you usually deal with hecklers?

When someone from the audience messes around with us, we like it. We grab hold of him and the content shifts towards him. And because he is one of the audience present, people then to relate to him. There has never been a time where someone has misbehaved with us yet. To a certain extent we can handle it, we come mentally prepared for something like this to occur. The only time a problem arises is when someone gets hurt by our content but we make sure we don’t prick the audience’s sentimental nerve.

Does a good show give you a rush? How about when you bomb?

I try to make the stand up as interactive as possible so that people don’t feel alienated. I try to talk about the things around, creating a lighter mood within the room. I like to involve people. It’s a two way process. I like to make them participate. When people are involved they feel like the artist who is performing, belongs to them. The environment should always be chill. Sometimes things just don’t work out, like in a marriage. There are so many things to do in 17

a wedding that you don’t have the patience to sit only through a stand up comedy. But we try our best to do our duty.

You’re a super high-energy, physical comic. How did you figure out your style?

I work really hard and am very particular about everything; from clothes to habits. I think there is a misconception in our industry when it comes to stand up comedians with their physique. But I think that you need to look presentable and show yourself off on the stage. I talk to the creative head and stylist to make myself really well dressed. Celebrities wear dresses that sparkle which can be seen from far, but we comedians wear the simplest clothes on stage. If we look nice as well, the audience pays more attention to us as well.

We all face some hurdles. What were the hurdles in the journey of becoming a stand-up comedian before you became a professional?

My appearance. When I started this career, I had a very healthy physique. I would go to the gym twice a day. People would always look at me and tell that I wasn’t made for stand up comedy. They pestered me to go into modelling or do a villainous role on television. I always did pure stand up, I never played a character as such. I just stand up and deliver. I always thought if I could speak well, then it shouldn’t be a problem for the audience to understand. What has my physical appearance got to do with anything? I faced this for round three years. Since the digital era took over, people are more revised and don’t care about the physical attributes of the person. People are more considered what we speak.

Do you follow any International Comedians? And who are your favourite local comics?

I don’t follow anyone in particular international comedians. There is Russel Peter and Vir Das, who is now an international comedian and he is touring. Kapil Sharma is the most expensive stand up comedian in the world. He is a local as well as international stand up comedian now. I follow Rajiv Thakur a lot. I feel like Indian stand up comedians have it hard since we don’t have the liberty to talk about anything and everything. We are still restricted with our content. International comedians have the liberty to roast and people too reciprocate in a positive manner as well. But even after all these limitations, comedians are making it in the industry.

Your work begets happiness, and you tend to motivate people and their creativity. How do you feel about it?

It feels really good. Spreading happiness and laughter for me, is the best feeling. I once got a message on Facebook from a boy telling me about his grandmother who is 85 years old, is one of my fans. You feel blessed knowing that an elderly person appreciates your work. I feel really happy knowing that i can make people laugh even if it just five minutes of their entire day. Those minutes, people forget all their worries and enjoy. When you make people laugh, they fall in love with you and that is unconditional, regardless of caste, stardom and gender.

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Tell us about your upcoming book.

There is still time for that. People think stand up comedians cannot write a book because it is a very taxing job. The book contains my journey and my struggles to this point. It’s about stand up comedy existing in India for a long time but people didn’t accept it in the past. It talks about the changes in the years and how people have started to welcome us with open arms.

You have acted in films as well. How was that experience compared to stand up comedy?

Honestly, really good. Films have a particular time limit. I’ve worked in Punjabi films. The narrating is different, the shoot comes out as something else, and final product isn’t how you imagined it would be. Artists get discouraged because of that. But the recent films have been really good. Through these experiences, I have realised not to get carried away with these opportunities. I have learnt to wait for better scripts and to go through the process before accepting one. I have grown as an artist because of these films.

What would you be doing if it wasn’t for comedy?

I would be struggling to do comedy. I don’t know what else I would be doing.

Everything I have experienced since my childhood, is just narrated to you all. I don’t think about anything. My humour is observational humour.

Is there anything you haven’t done yet that’s on your vision board?

My dream is to win one Filmfare award. I want to hold the black lady at least once. Last year I was nominated for the Punjab Filmfare Awards. I was also hosting the red carpet. Sadly, I didn’t win. But hopefully one day I shall accomplish it.

Are there any new acts of yours that are coming soon?

My new show is coming. Entertainment Ki Raat Season 1 was wrapped up in February and we are coming with Season 2 from the second week of April. After that you will also witness me in realty show whose name shall be disclosed soon in the papers. It’s something different from stand up comedy. These two things are on the list for the time being.

What message do you have for people who want to become comedians or something of this sort?

Just go along with it and don’t give up. Keep going with what you have. Don’t improvise on your content. Different people have different characteristics and that’s what makes you stand out. Work on your craft and have patience. You will surely get your chance. ***

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NEW GEN COMEDIAN

KANEEZ SURKA Photographed by Ranveer Dua Styling by Juhi Ali MUAH by Valene D’Souza Interview by Vrishti Nadkar ni

What is it like being a woman in comedy? Did you face any problems?

This is the first question journalists ask me. I don’t want to harp on it much. I just want people to start watching female comedians. What we need to do is to provide larger platform to female comedians, so the gap is bridged between the two ends. The problem is on a social level where people don’t accept women as comedians. They aren’t used to a woman doing comedy. It’s not as easy as watching men doing comedy. Hopefully people don’t confine themselves to gender bias and just see an individual doing comedy. Other than that it’s been a normal journey.

Who would you say, influences you in the world of comedy?

First of all, I’m not a stand-up comedian. I do a bit of stand-up, but I’m primarily an improv and sketch comedian. Amy Poehler, Will Ferrell, and Tina Fey have been a huge inspiration to me. To see someone who didn’t do stand-up comedy, make something out of oneself and was successful. So for me it was like, ‘Oh! stand-up comedy isn’t the only avenue I need to go down’. There is a lot more you can do in comedy. For me, the three of them were an inspiration to push me to continue on my path of improv or sketch comedy.

Did any artist’s performance leave a lasting mark on you?

Rowen Atkinson’s one man special. I remember watching that years ago and finding it hilarious. How he was doing a solo show, there was sketch involved.

There were characters. It wasn’t just him doing a piece with the audience. He was playing different characters and doing different scenes. I remember that was one of the first comedy acts and realized that this was something I could see myself doing.

You have done a course in improvisation in the US. Did that experience help you shape your comedy?

Hundred percent. I felt the difference when I joined the group of improv comedy in 2005. After I joined the show The Week That Wasn’t, I had done another improv course before the comedy scene began. I had done a lot of improv but at one point I started feeling like I reached the ceiling. There was no one doing improv here in India. And the teacher I had, he thought me everything he knew.

That’s why I decided to go to the US to enhance my improv skill. The course 22 Issue #4 April 2018

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did change a lot of things. When I came back , a lot of people from the industry and the community started respecting me as an imporv artist because I made an effort to go abroad and study. Everyone started giving me the title of improv comedy and that formed my image in the comedy industry. I started doing workshops after that. I really made my mark in improv because I was teaching it.

I became a synonym with improv.

Let’s address the giant elephant in the world of comedy. What happens if the audience doesn’t laugh?

If they don’t laugh, there is nothing much you can do. When I was doing standup, I observed the audience was not laughing. When you do a sketch or an improv comedy, you have other people on the stage that you are performing with.

So, you don’t notice the lack of laughter as much because you are not facing the audience. When you are doing stand-up, my god, you are facing the audience. You are talking to them directly. When they don’t laugh, it definitely sucks to be up on stage. It’s very demoralising sometimes but as it happens a couple of times, you get used to it. You cannot avoid getting on stage so you challenge that situation.

There is a video on YouTube on how AIB uses feminism. And we see you mentioning the roles you play in their videos. What are your thoughts in the characterization of female roles in comedy?

We all are learning how to portray women in media. My snippet in the video was from an AIB video. It was a joke I was making. It was one of the behind the scene video. My take on this is that learning is an ongoing process. I also feel it is my responsibility to be expressive, ‘I don’t want to play these roles’ or make these roles a little more catered towards the neutral style. I’m very close to AIB so I do have the space to opine. That’s what we do now. When we do sketches, they take me through it and take my viewpoint. Media is embracing women in diverse characters than just playing a mother, a girlfriend or a sexual object. I’m glad that video came out and made everyone aware. But we also knew that it was a problem.

What is your opinion on people who say that the comedy content on YouTube is outshining the content on other media?

I agree. In YouTube there is a variety of stuff. Also, for YouTube, you don’t need to have a producer to produce the content. You can do it on your own. You can shoot your own video and upload it. There are no barriers. In television and other forms of media there are going to be producers and channels. They are all going to have their say on what goes on the channel. But on YouTube there is no moderation, you put whatever you want to. It’s not defined by what the producers or the television executives want. It’s about what we think is funny, and that’s great. The creativity and its expression enjoy the freedom otherwise the comedy doesn’t work. That’s a place, I think, where you can see genuine and authentic comedy. It’s not censored or moderated in any way.

How do you feel that stand-up comedy and improvisation has changed since you started being part of it? Has that change been good or bad in

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your opinion?

There was no stand-up or improv comedy before. It is a nice thing to be a part of an industry or a community from its inception. We were the ones who brought all of this to India. There were people trying to imitate a kind of comedy. It was the real thing, in my opinion, for many years till 2010. I know comedy existed before that but I’m talking about its western format, in terms of standup and improv. Indian comedy is under the influence of the western format.

Now we are evolving and making it our own. We have taken a bit from everything, the stuff from the past from Johnny Lever’s time and infused it with the western style. We are finding our own voice now. We are creating a whole new Indian comedy style, I would say. Comedy has evolved in India from more slapstick or louder comedy to more of verbal wit. We are creating a new age of comedy that is blown up recently, and we were all there at the inception of it.

Since there’s a lot of competition now, how does one get started in standup or improv comedy?

You need to start hitting open mikes if you are into stand-up comedy. One is that you need to perform your jokes. A lot of people think they are funny or have been told they are funny. But if you can’t deliver it or perform it, you are not a stand-up comedian. If you want do improve comedy, join workshops that you can come across. Besides that if you think you have something funny to say, then just make videos and put them on social media. There are a lot of avenues for people to do comedy, there is no heavy process to enter. It is such a small community of a few people in India. I guess there are about three hundred people doing regular open mikes all over the country. Out of which twenty to fifty are actually making money out of it. Amongst them, twenty five to thirty who have actually made it their career. In India, comedy hasn’t reached a competitive stage yet. It’s still a growing culture and there is room for everybody. So if you want to try it, you should totally do it. It’s not saturated at all. It’s not difficult yet, there is still room for new comers.

What advice would you give to comedians just starting out?

Just do it. I hate the Nike tag line, but I really believe that. There is so much fear that grips, when doing stand-up, if people do not laugh or respond. It’s like putting yourself out there and being judged. All these apprehensions hinder you from going out there and just doing it. It takes a lot of courage. But the thing is when you break that fear barrier, it becomes so much easier. Don’t plan too much or think too much. My advice is ‘ just go and do it.’ You learn so much while you are doing it. You really need to go out there, try and practice. Only then you will find a difference. ***

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Top : Zara Pants : Sarita Joshi Shoes : Rosado Earrings : Loupe Ring : Bijoux

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A Girl’s

Dream 28 Issue #4 April 2018

Ph otog rap h e d ( an d Ve rse s) by S u kiran S in gh Styling b y Supreet Khur a na M od e l S h ru ti Tu li ( T FM Mo de ls) M ak e u p an d H a ir by Tarsh a K h o ran a

The Golden Bar, and the dream so far, The lies that seep, Fill holes that deep.

Dress : Eshaani Jayaswal Neckpiece : Swarovski Shoes : Steve Madden

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Weights of world, the mellow Tears, If joy is yellow, then so are Fears.

Shirt : Zara Cape : Esha Sethi Thirani Skirt : Sameer Madan Neckpiece : Eurumme

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No Shackles, no Bounds, A leap off the grounds.

Dress : Sharnita Nandwana Neckpiece : Eurumme

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The War within, the war with-out, When darkness peeks, just sound the clout.

Complete Look by : Esha Sethi Thirani

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36 Issue #4 April 2018

The Streaks of hope, the streaks of freedom, Color me paradise, thy garden is my kingdom.

Top : Zara Skirt : Zara Earrings : Eurumme

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PHENOMENON THAT SHAPE US

BY SIMARJOT WADHWA

Hope never withers away. It is passion, vision and belief. It rejuvenates , reverberates and propels. It is a force that makes Mr. A.R. Khan forge ahead. He upholds the baton of zeal, zest and dynamism and joyfully expresses, ‘Hope is ambition and aspiration. You have to keep in mind that only ambition can’t do anything. You have to proceed further to succeed and fulfill what you aspire for.’

MR. A. R. KHAN Born on 1st July 1935 at Yavatmal district in Maharashtra, Mr. Khan is tenacious, fervent and vibrant. His age doesn’t deter him from being buoyant. Currently, a practicing advocate in Supreme Court of India and High Court of Bombay, he carves his niche as an exemplary person .

FAMILY His journey of life began in a small village of the Yavatmal district. He belonged to the family of cultivators but education was the priority. His grandfather Mr. Hyder Khan was the Headmaster in the Marathi medium primary school of the village. He was also the in-charge of the village postal department and carried out the duties pertaining to money-orders. He used to handover the money orders to the postman for the delivery to the villagers. Being an educated person, he also drafted letters and provided help if it was sought for. He was well-versed with Hindi, Marathi and Urdu. The family had their own land and his father cultivated it. His mother was the home-maker.

Cattle were domesticated and there was a horse for horse-riding. Even a camel was a part of the family during his great grandfather’s time.

EDUCATION AND PROFESSION He completed his primary education till class IV in the village. Since there was no secondary school in the village, he joined a high school at Yavatmal. He passed his SSC from the same institution. Despite of scarcity of funds for further education, he never let his desire to pursue his study fade away. His cousins assisted him and he came to Bombay to graduate in English Literature from Bombay University. The interest in law made him enhance his qualification by doing L.L.B. Opportunity knocked at his door and he flew to Muscat to work in a company.

There was no looking back for him. His vision to reach the height paved the way to a better job in Saudi Arabia and then to Dubai. He was fortunate to be the legal advisor of two giant companies – ARAMCO and SAMAREC. Eighteen years of experience in the Gulf countries earned him good reputation. He returned to

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Mumbai 1995.

MARRIAGE Once he was professionally settled , he got married to Mrs. Saira Rafat Khan . She was also from Yavatmal . She was an SSC pass out in Urdu medium. She was a home-maker who devoted herself in bringing up her five children (three sons and two daughters). The nature of the job couldn’t allow the family to be together but the distance couldn’t weaken the strong family bonds. A couple of months in a year were enough to bridge the gap and indeed, sufficient to cherish the moments for the remaining months. He feels contented to see his children well settled in their lives.

UNFORGETTABLE INCIDENTS He recalled the horrible moments during the Kuwait war where life was at stake.

Nobody knew what was destined for him. By God’s grace, he and his family could manage to shift from Jeddah to Mecca and resided with families from other nations like Libya, Syria, Egypt, Poland, America, Scandinavia etc. A complex of seven buildings sheltered the people during those gruesome times. They heard about the ghastly situation but felt protected and secured in the premises. The inconspicuous benefits one reaps through prayers, could really be felt at that time.

Destiny had some other plans for him. He happened to meet some kind British people who sponsored him to London. He also got an opportunity to work as a supervisor in the King’s palace for three months. While going down the memory lane, he talked about the palatial grandeur, tight vigilance and the palace being so technically safe and sound. Prince William never wanted to part with him. He said , ‘Till the time I am here ,you cannot go.’

BACK TO INDIA He came back to India. He was offered jobs along with family visa by the companies in the Gulf but he preferred to settle down here. He started working as an advocate in Bombay High Court and later became an advocate in Supreme Court. He deals in criminal, civil, trust and co-operative cases. He also takes income tax and sales tax cases though the category is different.

PROFESSIONAL STRENGTHS He is proud of his strengths and convincingly communicates that he studies his case thoroughly and completely prepares himself according to the provisions of law. He is confident in his approach and says , ‘ I prepare my case with clinching evidence so that I always appear with good words.’ He further shares, ‘ I used to be at the top of myself , completely prepared to argue.’ He daily visits the Bombay High Court or Subordinate High Court. He also flies to Delhi once in a month to attend the hearings in Supreme Court. He is actively linked with social media and keeps himself updated. A list of memberships add glory to his profession: 1. Member : Supreme Court Bar Association, New Delhi.

2. Member : High Court Bombay Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa , High

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Court of Bombay 3. Member : International Court of Jurists,1, Queen Anne’s Gate, London, SW1H,9BT (UK) 4. Life Member : City Civil and Session Court Bombay, Kala Ghoda , Mumbai 5. Member : Western India Advocate Association, High Court Bombay 6. Life Member : All India Muslim Education Society , Chennai OTHER PURSUITS His hobby is reading books and desires to write his experiences. He is socially active and enjoys his free time with cultured and progressive people. He cherishes his moments spent in the social gatherings. He fondly recalls the time when he organized a kavi sammelan at Saboo Siddik College of Engineering at Byculla, Mumbai and the, then, Chief Minister presided over the function. He has also founded a registered society in his hometown. He has donated his land for the same. It will be a Galaxy of education, arts and culture and he is working hard to collect more funds for the building to be constructed. He firmly says that life is frustrated without education.

VISION Never get disappointed. Evaluate yourself to find out the causes of failure. Plan wisely for better future. Courage and diligence go hand in hand. We must not get nervous. Keep working vigorously.

DREAM He wants everyone to be well-educated. Keep higher goals and achieve them.

He wishes his grandchildren a good luck and a prosperous future in whichever part of the world they are. He tells them to live life confidently.

POETIC TOUCH An effective rendering of Allama Iqbal’s poetry reflects his passion, dreams and foresightedness. yakein - e- muhakkam , amal - e - paham muhabbat faateh - e - aalam , yeh hain zanjeerein jihaad - e - zindgani ki “(You should have complete confidence. Put your thoughts in action. If you dream, make it a reality. Whosoever you meet, meet with pleasure and spread brotherhood among people.

These are the struggles of a person which can lead him to success).”

MESSAGE “Work for the benefit of the common man. There should be friendship among masses.”

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“There is nothing like a dream to create the future.”

-Victor Hugo

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TASTE OF TITANS FAme Game

Ph ot o gra phed by Ked a r A mb ur le M odel - Marc elina (I nega Mo del s ), Sty l i ng by Sn e h a l K o th a ri Mak e up by Amb ic a Kukret y, Ha i r by Va lene D ’s o u z a Photogra phy a s s i s ta nt - Da nny Vya z Lo c a t i on- G r a nd ma ma ’s C a fe

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Dress and Face mask : Esha Sethi Thirani Shoulder Pads : Stylist’s Own

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FAme Game

Dress : Kartikeya Neckpiece : Stylist’s own

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FAme Game

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Dress : Vidhi Wadhwani Bracelet : Stylist’s own

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Dress : Kanika Goyal Belt : Stylist’s own

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WHAT ! LENIN WAS A TERRORIST?

By Simarjot Wadhwa

Vladimir Iilyich Lenin must have been thinking about the prospect of being a ‘terrorist’. While dwelling in his abode, he might have been introspecting his ideologies whether they propagated terrorism or human welfare. He might have been pondering over the word ‘revolution’ and thus letting ‘think tank’ emerge to overhaul the society. It can be said that revolution is a form of war but certainly not that induces fright and hatred. It is a change for the betterment. If Russians were freed from the clutches of the Tsarist rule , it had definitely not been an obnoxious and brazen act.

How can we forget our own independence struggle? It is unambiguous that it was a kind of a revolution. If our politicians today consider Lenin to be a terrorist, what about Chandrashekhar Azad , Bhagat Singh and many more. Would it be too harsh to consider Lenin’s revolution from the viewpoint of the Tsars? Obviously Lenin brought the Russian masses out of the tyranny of the Tsars and their henchmen. The only difference is between the two time zones and the forms of governments. Don’t such kinds of comments mar the democratic rationale? It is saddening to find India today regressing rather than progressing. We call ourselves a liberal and secular nation, then why such Tsarist slanders? Forcibly imposing ideas creates a rift in the society.

Does the renaissance occur without sparks? The spark within ignites inertia and what

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follows then, is obvious. The outcome may be outrageous but this is, undoubtedly, not detrimental to the society. Can demolishing statues obliterate the ideologies? Isn’t it insane to conceptualize the impertinent? With almost 12 million people added to the unemployment every year, where we are heading to. Isn’t this situation alarming ? Lenin will remain forever and history will always stand by him.

Why ‘much ado about nothing’? Why squabble and lock horns ? Are we left with disdain, loathe and contempt as parameters of a developing society? It is heart-wrenching to see your own soil stained with blood. What about being ‘A Proud Indian!’ Let’s seek the Quality of Mercy instead of rancor and scorn. ***

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JIM SARBH Cover Story

JIM SARBH is an Indian Actor who is trying to push bounds in Indian Cinema.

Interview by Vrishti Nadkarni What attracted you to begin your career as an actor? Have you progressed in your acting career as you hoped or expected?

Nobody forced me to become an actor. I think I always wanted to be the same, I’ve always been acting. That is the only thing that struck. I am really happy wherever I am at present.

You were studying psychology at Emory. Did theatre always interest you?

And does psychology help you to craft your acting ?

Yes, psychology does help. But you should always forget about psychology while acting because the main job of the actor is to act and not think. So when people are stuck in their heads or straight-jacketed by their ideas of what the character should be, I think that’s also fucked up.

You have worked in numerous short films by indie directors, apart from the silver screen. What was it like working with a renowned director, Sanjay Leela Bhansali?

It was really good. I like his precision and detailing, the way he sets up a frame.

The fact that he always pushes you to try to get the most of your character. I feel that you should treat every project like it’s the best that you can give in.

Try to achieve what you want to achieve. Not worrying about who the director necessarily is. But in this case, I was very nervous in the beginning because I had heard so much about him, that he is a hard-task master. But I found him to be a hard-task master in a good way; in a way that I appreciate; in way that I would like to be directed and couched. Someone who is really clear with what he wants and this passion constantly strives you to do the best and reach the hidden potential of the scene.

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Jim Sarbh COVER STORY

Photo gra phed by Sukir a n Sing h S ty lin g by Juhi A li, As s i s ta nt Sty l i ng by P ush k a r Va z e Mak e up by Anu M a r iya J o se, Ha i r by R uc h i S h a h Outfit: Jacket, shirt, pants and Shoes - ss homme Watch- Jaipur watches company

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Jacket and pants - Ajay kumar Shirt- amen menswear Sunglasses- hughdesign Shoes- berliegh duke and Dexter’s

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It is rumored it is very tough to work with Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Was it demanding to do Padmavat? Do you believe it is okay for a director to cross boundaries, for the sake of art?

I liked him. He cares about his film, so I care about his films.

You have been part of plays and performed in theatre in Atlanta and in India. How different was it for you to act in a movie and to act in a theatre play? Which one did you enjoy or prefer the most?

My first movie was Neerja. It was a very theatrical type of set up where there were really long takes, and where we had to know the whole script before we even started. There were rehearsal processes. So it was an easy transaction. All other films after that, have been more about precisions and hitting marks. All this can be distracting and they were slightly confusing for me in the beginning too. But it’s just another pattern to learn. I like both for different reasons. People always try to make a distinction between theatre and films, asking me which one I would rather do. I want to act!

Do you enjoy directing over acting in theatre or vice verca?

I like both. But I have garnered more experience as an actor, so I’m happy to pursue the same till I get bored.

You played the role of Khalil, a terrorist in the movie Neerja. How was it like taking up and pursuing negative role and the preparation that went into it?

I don’t believe in distinctions so I don’t prefer to answer such questions ever.

You have often played the role of a “baddie” in your previous movies. What is your dream role? Is there another role or a character you would be interested to play? Can we see you in an offbeat intelligent comedy?

I want to play interesting characters. If he is a morally ambiguous person, that’s fine by me. If he is a good person, that’s fine by me. All of that doesn’t matter.

It is more about the quality of the role, his lines, his actions, and his emotional journey. The more complicated and more shades I get to show, the happier I am.

How do people from your past and now, whether they are your friends, acquaintances, or family, react to your presence on social media and otherwise?

“Hey Jim. How are you? We saw your photo”. And I say ‘thanks’. When I ask if they understood it, they say no, and I’m like ‘okay’.

We love your Instagram wall, it’s modern, provocative, artistic and intelligent. Besides being recognized as a talented actor, you’re floating among followers and fans with your charm and splendour. How do you handle this kind of attention?

I like the attention.

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We saw some vibrant visual arts on your page. What kind of art do you get drawn to? Any particular artists you like?

It depends. I like a lot of modern Indian art. I like a lot of French and European impressionist painters. I’m going through an Egon Schiele phase right now. I always liked Picasso, almost always. I like the new kind of collage, mash up art that you can find all over Instagram. Combining two different things that you wouldn’t usually combine. I find that very interesting. To some extent surrealistic art.

Do you get nervous about posting something on social media? Do you feel like you have a certain standard to uphold as a public figure, and as a role model?

No, not really. I don’t think much about it. People usually like to take photos with me so I have some photos of myself that I can upload. If I don’t, then I upload some other things that I think are cool. I don’t really see it a way to show people my social life. It is more important for people to see a part of my work life that otherwise wouldn’t get out into the world. In general, I value my personal private space. So I don’t post things like, “birthday with my mum”. I don’t think that’s my general vibe on Instagram.

Along with being an actor, is there anything else you’d like to be part of as an artist?

Not at the moment. I think if you really want to do something ,you have to focus. I guess various other people have varied other interests. I do as well. But just now I’m more focused on acting than anything else.

What genre of movie or drama do you like the most?

I like all kinds. It just depends on the quality of the film. If it’s a good comedy, it’s a good comedy. If it’s a good thriller, it’s a good thriller. If it’s a good romantic comedy, I’m cool with that. If it’s a nice drama, I’m into that. I don’t have any particular genre.

Though history is unclear about this, but you were the other “love interest” of Ranveer Singh, in Padmavat. What was it like romancing a man on screen?

Fine. Same as romancing a woman. We both were just trying to play our parts and I liked him a lot so it was pretty easy. As far as men go, pretty good choice to have to romance.

What was your reaction when open letters were floating around after the release of Padmavat?

I think everyone is allowed an opinion. And whatever sparks a communal debate is a good thing.

How was it like working with the legend, Om Puri, in “A Death in the Gunj”?

Really nice! What a great guy. I learnt something from him on the sets. He 57

Outfit- Siddhartha Bansal

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Outfit: Ajay Kumar Watch- Jaipur watches company

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Shirt- Rajdeep Ranawat Blazer and pants - Ankur Kapoor

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would improvise a lot and he would do just what his impulses were, what he felt was right about the character. Later when I watched the film, he was my favourite performer. I remember watching him on set and doing his best. I realised that he was someone to learn from.

Do you believe in method acting?

On the set if you feel like staying in the character, I think you should. It’s much easier. I think other way to achieve something like this, is through proper rehearsals.

Do you have any future projects coming up?

The Sanjay Dutt bio-pic is going to release in June. There is a film with Michael Winterbottom, Dev Patel and Radhika Apte. Something will happen about it later this year. In November, Made in Heaven will release, which is a web series that Zoya Aktar and Nitya Mehra have directed. There is another film I’m about to start in Dubai with Barkhad Abdi. It’s a debut feature film for the director named Neel Kumar. So looking forward to that. I think the next one will be my stint as a bad guy for a while or I’m going to do nothing until I get another kind of role. I’m a bit tired of playing the provoker. I want to play the person who is reactive.

Any tips or advice you would like to share with budding actors?

Keep acting.

***

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Outfit: Jacket, shirt, pants and Shoes - ss homme Watch- Jaipur watches company

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Animal Spirit

P h o tog rap h e d b y Ruc hi r Va shi sht ha S ty l i n g b y Sommy Eric St yling assist ant - Tan ya Agg a rw a l M o d e l s - A na nt K uma r, A ditya S h ar ma, Jojo an d Imran (Runway l i fes ty l e Pv t. L td .)

Makeup and Hair by S alon i Arora Pho to g rap h y assist ant - S ah il Ch au dh ry an d Hars h Gup ta 66 Issue #4 April 2018

Anant with cat Bomber jacket and Black runner pant by Siddharth Tytler, T-shirt by forever 21 Right: Imran with Cock Dhruv vaish, Shoes zara

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Aditya with dog Check overcoat & Printed kurta shirt by Dhruv Vaish Harem pants & Block shoes by Anaam

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Right: Jojo with rabbit Blazer by Sadan Pande Printed kimono by Vintage Threads

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Jojo with Owl White kimono and Trousers by Jenjum Gadi Shoes & Black Robe by two.two Left: Anant with fish Red blazer by Sadan Pande, White printed runner by Siddharth tytler, Stockings forever 21, Printed canvas shoes by jenjum gadi

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Aditya with butterfly Wardrobe: Siddharth tytler

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“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.“ -Eleanor Roosevelt

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OH TEACHER, THY LORD IS MISERY Life Shorts By Simarjot Wadhwa

The sun was meeting the horizon and the twilight saw birds returning to their nests. Waves ebbed and broke the eeriness. The wind whipped past Ratna, strolling at the beach. Her constant gaze at the sun indicated the depth of her pain. A queer tussle within grappled her; the tranquility was jeopardized.

Nothing seemed to be good and favourable. Frivolous times and the clouds of uncertainty had been hovering over her. How could Nature be so cruel? How could destiny maroon her and become so callous? Picking up the reminiscences, Ratna treaded along. Suddenly, a twinkle in the eye and the life infused hope. Better future awaited Ratna and journey from Jalgaon to Mumbai kindled optimism.

A government job filled her with a feeling of security till retirement and was decisive in leaving the job of a supervisor in a CBSE school. She knew that a government contract as a Shikshan Sevak for three years would fetch her meagre salary of Rs.8000 per month but later, life would be colourful. She was determined to overcome any challenge and an urge drove her to move to the city of dreams – Mumbai. She along with her husband and two school going daughters , arrived here just to find all that glitters is not gold . The battle of life began‌. Finding an accommodation within minimum resources proved to be an uphill task. From the payment of deposit to monthly rent started haunting her and the savings dwindled. Her husband’s unemployment aggravated the situation but his consistent yearning to overcome the odds paved the way to a job. His salary supplemented the income but this indeed, was not sufficient for making both ends meet. There arose the next mammoth question i.e. admission of her daughters in a befitting school. Life once again got a jolt when asked for donation. Keeping the self-respect aside, she borrowed money to ensure smooth sailing for her daughters. Incomes were so limited that she ran into debt.

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question i.e. admission of her daughters in a befitting school. Life once again got a jolt when asked for donation. Keeping the self-respect aside, she borrowed money to ensure smooth sailing for her daughters. Incomes were so limited that she ran into debt.

Her contract of three years came to an end and hope knocked at her door, infusing in her an inexplicable bliss. But, the agony never departed and the Goddess of Fortune never smiled. Her dreams shattered because of her penury. Hope could not sustain the semistarved being. The fourth year didn’t bring anything. The departmental hassles delayed the entire process of permanent appointment. Even her monthly subsistence allowance was stopped. The financial crisis became so acute that it shuddered her from head to toe. The family was forced to subsist on her husband’s meagre income. To add fuel to the fire, the monthly rent was increased.

Could survival be possible? Ugh! A noble, hardworking and dedicated teacher. What a bad luck in BHARAT DESH! ***

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NEW GEN SINGER

Anushka Shahaney P hot ograph ed by Kara n Neva t ia , Sty l i ng by Sayali Angachekar M akeu p an d Hair by Ta r sha Kho r a na I ntervie w by Vris hti N a d ka r ni

What got you into music?

I come from a very musical family. Nobody took it up seriously. My grandmother used to sing. She, in fact, had ‘Bhajjans’ at home. My mother and brother took part in different singing competitions in school. I guess it was always in my blood, always something I had seen while growing up. That’s how the interest sparked.

You were part of a popular music reality show, The Stage. While singing, did you encounter any glitches? If yes, how do you handle these glitches or mistakes during the performance?

It was how a reality show should be. Whatever we gave, were our final performances. My performances were completely raw and whatever I sang on stage, is what they show. There was no second chance basically. For me, I did go through laryngitis after the second episode. It was hard for me to sing for two episodes. Later I bounced back so that was fine.

What genre of music do you like the most?

My style of music has been influenced by various genres. I believe that if you want to be a good song writer, I think it’s important to get influences from all genres and then decide where your interest lies. Right now, my original music is quite commercial but it’s hard to point out a specific genre.

Munnabhai and debuted with her as your costar?

What are your fondest musical memories?

When I was in the fifth grade it was the first time I ever sang on the stage, in front of people. I heard a song from The Sound of Music, my favourite musical. I always struggled with stage phobia. I was really nervous but I managed to come

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Jacket : Myriad Activewear Track Pants : 77 H&M Neckpiece : Paroma Popat

Top : Myriad Activewear Track Pants : Myriad Activewear Neckpiece : Paroma Popat Shoes : Zara

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first in the entire competition, so that’s one of my fondest memories. Also, the first episode of The Stage, when I got a standing ovation, is imprinted forever.

I was heavily into academics like psychology and philosophy. The Stage was my first music exposure as a gig and I was really nervous. But in the first episode itself getting a standing ovation, was a big deal. It was more of a reinforcing. I understood the seriousness of it.

The scenario in India has always been people listening to more to conventional movie songs rather than independent music. What do you think of India’s independent music scene? With reality shows like Dewarists, Coke Studio, MTV Unplugged coming up, how has it impacted the singers and the people?

I think we have a great amount of talent in our country now. When it comes to English music, the audience’s perspectives are changing. There are some great indie scenes. Personally I believe that a commercial artist can come out of India now. I think we are ready for that. And that is why I haven’t been doing too many gigs because I’m focusing on my own song writing. I want to change the world’s perspective on Indian musicians. So more and more musicians get a chance to be part of the international music scene. I think the fact that there is an English singing reality show, is a proof that the independent music has more and more people rising from it. This indicates the changing perspective. Indian independent music scenario has really been a positive influence. Along with that it’s giving more people to dream and the guts to follow what they love. That’s why, the number of independent musicians are also increasing. People are getting a platform, and demand for them has increased as well. There is so much talent out there.

What challenges did you face in breaking into professional singing? Was it difficult as a woman?

I don’t think so. That way I think I was very fortunate. Right after The Stage I was signed by the label EMI records. Mohit Suri, the famous director and our mentor , gave me an opportunity of singing two English songs in his movie, Half Girlfriend. They took me under their wing. Everyone at Universal is so nice and approachable. They really helped me with my song writing. I feel like I discovered myself as a song writer because of my label. They really helped me in growing. They were really encouraging. I feel fortunate because I’m not alone. I consult them for everything because they always have the best advice because they are more experienced, obviously. I think that way my journey has been really great.

You have learned western classical music and you can sing in many languages. Did you ever consider teaching music? Have you tried this in past?

The course that I did from Trinity College in London ,was very rigorous. You have to do English, Italian, German, French songs. It was a part of my repertoire. Now in fact I left all that. I’m learning Indian classical singing. Which I think is the best thing I’ve ever done. It is the most amazing form of training. It suits my voice, it’s transformed it. I’m really grateful that I managed to start Indian classical. I was heavily into psychology and I didn’t think I would take this path

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before. I did get a scholarship to go to LA for music. That time my plan was music therapy. I wanted to be a therapist who would address my patients and help them out through music. Otherwise I don’t think I would be qualified enough because I have my own style. That may not necessarily suit someone else. But I do give guidance now , especially when it comes to warm ups.

You have been a student of psychology. Does music have any kind of positive or negative impacts on psychology?

Music can only have a positive impact. It’s quite interesting actually. I like doing a lot of research. I found that there are different frequencies associated with different feelings. I think music has a lot to do with the subconscious mind. I feel that because of my psychological background I am able to write songs with a lot of undertone associated with making people feel better and uplifting their mood. I think psychology has really helped me when it comes to my song writing, understanding people, and understanding demographics. I’m able to write catchy songs. I feel it’s benefitting for my career.

How did the opportunity to sing for Half Girlfriend come your way? How was the experience of recording music for a Bollywood film?

It was quite interesting. I was asked by one of the judges from The Stage. When I went to the office, I met Mohit Suri. He wanted to see my talent, so he asked me to write a song for him. He gave me a theme and a whole situation. Within fifteen minutes, I had written the hook of the song called, lost without you.

Actually he wasn’t sure what he wanted to use it for he was still figuring out his movie situation. Later on, he decided to put it in the movie. He called me to his office after few months and then came Stay a Little Longer, which is one of the main songs. He made me listen to the Hindi version and asked for my western take on it. He explained the movie and the story to me, then I wrote it down.

That’s how both these songs went in the movie. There were people who really wanted me and artists like me to grow. We understood each other really well. It was a great experience. It was a very big learning experience.

You’re a young musician who flourished in the show, The Stage. Along with that got the chance to sing for a Bollywood movie. Is there growth in this field? How do things generally look for new musicians entering the field, especially in the Indian music industry?

The fact that there were two English songs in a commercial film, should tell you that the industry is shaping. People are getting more and more open to different styles of music. If you look at comments on Stay a Little Longer on YouTube, more than 80% are positive. It was well appreciated by the masses I think that was a very good sign. I think now is a great time. If you can write your own music and if you have that fire in your belly then you are unstoppable. I think it’s great to tell your own story through your music.

Your International Album is launching, tell us about that.

It’s not an international album. It’s something else and it’s really exciting. I think it will open a lot of avenues for a lot of people.

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What personal advice would you give to someone wanting to pursue this career?

Be yourself. Be patient. Keep writing your own music. Keep practicing because it will never go waste. What I have learnt is that it is a waiting game. It gets frustrating at times. But if you really persevere then I think there is nothing that can stop you. ***

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MODERN INDIAN SINGER

Sasha Tirupati P hot ographe d by Sukir a n Sing h, Sty l i ng by Supreet Khurana & Disha Shah, Mak e up and Hai r by Va lene D ’so uz a I nterview by Vrishti Na d ka r ni

How do you physically, emotionally, and mentally prepare before recording a song?

Emotionally and mentally I try to be one with the vibe of the song. I try to be in emotional and mental alignment with the track, and what the vibe, the style, the requirement, or the mood of the track is. Accordingly I accentuate specific words or give a particular vibe vocally. Physically, I do two hundred push ups and two hundred sit ups…. I’m kidding I don’t do that. I flex my muscles of neck. I make sure I’m relax before recording because. A lot of times, when you get a new opportunity, you get tensed up. I try to avoid getting nervous because it messes with your system. Along with that I drink a lot of water.

What is your style of singing? Do you prefer having your own style while recording?

I think I’m very versatile as a singer. I would like producers to call me for songs that are beyond, what they feel, is my genre. It is very simple to be type cast in the industry. Because the initial two songs I sang were romantic and semi-classical songs, many people thought that is my genre. Which is very untrue, because I’m pretty much self-trained in classical music. I’ve learnt whatever I know of classical online. It’s a lot of me teaching myself, and not having receive a more formal training. I enjoy singing club tracks and peppy club songs like, Suraj Dooba Hai or Lay lag gayi. There are a few composers like A.R Rahmaan Sir, who have experimented a lot with my voice. That is something I would like to encourage other music composers and producers to do as well.

What do you think is the most important aspect of a song?

A song is a conglomerate of a lot of things. There lyrics, melody, the singing, instrumentation, arrangements, and production. All these things have their own significant roles play. So I don’t think I’ll be able to pin point anything in particu

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lar because they are all equally important in a song.

You’ve sang songs for Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi movies. Was there a difference in the work ethics in the two? Which one did you prefer more?

I don’t prefer anything. Will always go towards singing a good song. So, if you play me a song, I like it, I’ll go ahead and sing it for you. I sang for twelve industries in twelve languages. They all their own essence. I have received equal respect and reverence down South of that I have received in Bollywood. I think my association with A.R Rahmaan Sir and his music has really helped attain a particular stature in both the industries, as well as beyond. I thoroughly enjoy working in various industries, and hope I get to sing for another dozen other industries as well.

Lately there have been many remakes of old songs. What are your thoughts in remaking songs as compared to original ones?

Remakes and originals, they both have their own significance. Originality is very important. Original music is very important because, we want to hear new things. We want to hear new melodies, hear new music, or hear new lyrics to a new tune. And at the same time, remix are an old wine in a new bottle. Remix have their own beauty. They bring old songs forward to the younger generations, who probably didn’t have the opportunities of listening to old gems, like we did. Or our elders did. It gives you the benefit of doing that. When they hear old tunes in perhaps a more palatable way, or sonically advanced. It can inspire them to go back and search for the old version and listen to it. Which was done at a time when we didn’t have digital music. I think it’s a beautiful thing. There should be a balance between the two. That’s my take on remix and original music. There are a lot of original creators there and they need to be heard. Their music needs to be heard. Their tracks need to see the light at the day. It’s very important for people to continuing doing that as well.

You started singing in a very young age. Was there ever something else you were passionate about besides music?

So many thing! I was a swimmer, I used to swim professionally. Besides that I loved travelling, and my job lets me do that, luckily. I love switching my phone off and backpacking to places where wouldn’t know I have gone. I’ve always loved to eat and try new food and new cuisines. And cook! I absolutely love, love, love, cooking. I also have a thing for coffee, perfumes, and goggles. I have a major collection of all three. Lots of great coffee at my place. Lots of great perfumes that own. And, lots of pretty cool shades.

Also, I used to play the classical guitar, before I started singing that was another thing I thought of doing.

What was/is it like to work with the legendary A R Rahman?

I’m always stumped for words when I have to talk about my experience working with Sir. I worshiped him for twelve years. Literally. He was in my temple at home. I used to show him the aggarbati and diya. And I did that for twelve years. Finally this happens. There is me sitting in another end of the world in or

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Vancouver, Canada. Suddenly I’m noticed from a choir, of all places. Till date I have sung around thirty-eight to forty songs for him. The funny thing is that every time I meet him, or every time I work on a new track with him, even when there is an interaction; I’m still star struck. When recording I shake madly, my knees shake madly when I see him. I still palpitate when we record because it’s unreal, you want to do your best, and you are bloody nervous. I still feel like that when I’m working with Rahman Sir. But, he makes you feel so comfortable.

Now it’s come to point where he throws things at you and he wants you to deliver right there and then. He has faith in all his artists he calls to record. I absolutely adore that about him. A lot of times you wonder if someone you idolize or really looked up to, and seems unreachable. At least for me, I used to think I was the kind of person that questioned, ‘would I want to meet him’? Because I don’t want the perception of that person to be tarnished after I meet the person. Or disappointment, I guess. But with Rahman sir, it’s unreal that he turned out to be even more amazing than what I had imagined him to be.

How do things generally look for new musicians entering the field?

I think this is the best time for new musicians to enter the field because, if you look at any recent movies over the past couple of years, you’ll see a wide plethora of artists. So many artists singing so many different songs. There are exceptions like Arijit Singh. Other than him I have not seen another Shreya or Sunidhi.

There is no monopolization where you one singer ruling all charts. People have become more open now with voices and textures. If you are newbie in the scene, then I think it’s a great time to get in and get noticed, and get work!

Do you think in the music industry men and women generally get the same opportunities and equal pay?

I think, yes. I think in the music industry there is no sexist segregation. I think we are pretty lucky that way. It’s not like I haven’t asked other male artists how much they get paid. But I’m aware of the standard rates, and that is pretty much equal.

How do you get people or family to take you seriously as a musician?

I make it point to consistently learn and to keep myself abreast with new styles of music that are in. and my singing technique to adapt to applying various techniques or to achieve a particular sound. I just try to keep myself up to date with new music and vocally being able to translate it all.

What are your future projects?

There are few that I can’t talk about just yet. We are looking forward to a few things and are pretty excited. But I’m not allowed to talk about them at the moment. What I can talk about is my original work. I’m working on some original compositions where I have sung, I have composed, I have written lyrics for songs. These are for my band. We are pretty much in the Indie zone. I’m going to be a little pompous here, they are beautiful songs. That’s not just me talking, I do believe in my work, but other people are believing in work more than I do.

So that’s one thing I’m really, really hyped about. Hopefully I’ll be releasing year.

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them as singles every month. It’s my original stuff that I planned and intend on performing it on festivals with my band, very soon. Hopefully by the end of this year.

Other than that, lots of gigs, lots of globetrotting! ***

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LUXURY LIFESTYLE WEEKEND COVERED BY VRISHTI NADKARNI

The Luxury Lifestyle Weekend put up the most elite shopping grounds in the city. It housed the top brands and names of fashion, lifestyle, beauty, art, real estate, watches, cars, and more under one roof. This was the first edition of the LLW and around 30,000 visitors were expected. The weekend was an elaborate affair. It created the opportunity to experience, exchange, and engage with variety of brands across different categories. The debut edition was held at Jio Gardens, Bandra Kurla Complex from March 9 to 11, bringing together luxury brands and consumers.

LLW has been created with the objective of presenting a platform where both ends of the luxury spectrum may engage, converse and develop an enriching ecosystem. The interaction with the world’s renowned luxury brands has changed the perceived concept of high end brands. More than being considered as articles of snob appeal, luxury is a means of consuming goods and services with guaranteed superior quality. These niche audience and consumers indulge in the access of high-quality, curated experience rather than embracing a mundane lifestyle.

Luxury Lifestyle Weekend, India’s inaugural platform brought together luxury brands and consumers in Mumbai. This was devised and produced by the country’s premier luxury consultancy and experiential service-provider, Magnanimous Group. The platform showcased one-of-a-kind interactive experiences across ten different categories, with hundred luxury brands on the display. The launch was hosted by LLW team, Atout France, and La Vallee Village. The event saw a Parisian themed soirée, where guests were invited to enjoy the

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performance of Natty Congeroo and The Flames of Rhythm, a well-known European Swing band. The evening also saw a performance by powerhouse singer and young style icon Ananya Birla. Rounding off the evening was an exclusive fashion showcase by the talented, young designer Gabriella Demetriades, and her eponymous label Deme. Actors Rhea Chakraborty and Mandana Kareemi sashayed down the runway in key looks from Deme’s capsule collection created exclusively for LLW and in homage to the start of the Spring-Summer season. Day one kick-started the event with a series of brunches, high teas, fashion shows and a grand sundowner.

Jaipur Rugs showcased the line of their latest collection of rugs, Tattvam. These grand line of rugs were created in collaboration with celebrity interior designer, Gauri Khan. Diamond jewellers, Forevermark had set up a black room with a ten carat diamond on display with a shoot of white light. The scattering of light flaunted its quality and finesse of their diamonds. Anish Bhatt, Founder and CEO of Watch Anish also displayed a remarkable collection of watches.

On the second day, panellists from various renowned brands discussed the upcoming prospective of Luxury and Technology, and luxury trends. The panellists consisted of Rahil Ansari- Head of Audi India, Rohan Vaziralli – Country Head of Estee Lauder India, Neerja Bhatt – VP of Etihad Airways India and Indian Subcontinent, Remy Julia- Watch Specialist at Cristies Dubai, Anish Bhatt – Founder of Watch Anish Magazine and Digital, Shantanu and Nikhil- Indian designer duo, Sheetal Munshaw- Director of Atout France India with moderators Aabha Bakaya and Devna Gandhi- Co- creators, the Influence Series.

It was a day for watch lovers. Remy Julia flew in to discuss luxury watches. There was a Master class by Panerai held on the art of making watches. There was a showcase of Cristie’s vintage collection of Patek Philippe and Rolex. Along with that, the fashion brands exhibited their latest collections, flashing new trends. The arena was ornamented with prestigious brands that presented an interactive experience for the audience. The extravagant day ended with a spectacular sundowner with jazz performance by London based band, Natty Congeroo and The Flames of Rhythm. The AD Sunday brunch at LLW brought together the city’s connoisseurs. There was an exclusive art installation by Klove studios in the arena, and a luxurious set up done by architect, Rooshad Shroff.

A watchmaking Masterclass by Panerai and exhibits by brands such as Hublot, H. Moser & Cie, IWC Schaffhausen, Franck Muller and Bovet, are amongst other things to look forward to. If you own vintage timepieces, you can get a confidential valuation of them. The prestigious auction and sale house recognizes that each individual is looking for something unique and specific, which is why they have bespoke private sale processes through which a dedicated team of watch specialists work one-on-one with you to source or sell timepieces, utilizing their global network of collectors and dealer relationships.

Over hundred Indian and international luxury brands had set-up a pop-up experience across verticals like art, automobiles, aviation, décor, hospitality, jewellery, watches and more. It introduced consumer to luxury through the lenses of experience and craftsmanship. The Luxury Lifestyle Weekend promised and delivered three days of exclusive extravaganza, one of a kind experience. It wasn’t just about the posh tangible goods but also about inspiration and creativity. It was curated experience that brought together existing and aspiring consumers of luxury to connect with the brands and engage with them on a personal level. ***

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Shantanu and Nikhil in a Seminar

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