Foreigner's 'slums near Chennai 5-star hotel' video sparks India wealth gap debate
In the caption, Rowlands added: 'This view from the smith machine summed up India's staggering wealth divide. I only use the phrase 'practically slums' to help emphasise the contrast.'Take a look at the post here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by D E C L A N R O W L A N D S (@declanrowlands)In the comments section, several users offered perspective on India's urban fabric, where the wealthy and the working class often live side by side.One Chennai-based user explained, 'I'm from Chennai and, in most Indian cities, the concept of slums is meant to coexist with the residential population living there. These people are basically supporting the entire household. The area you're shooting from is MRC Nagar, and I bet even the hotel would be employing a few from these humble dwellings.'Another added, 'You see the contrast here, because the poor aren't hidden away in India. There is no shame in being poor here. Unlike certain developed countries in the West, there are no specific areas where only the poor reside, and certain areas are meant only for the rich. Here we live together, rich and poor, 5-star and the slums next to each other.'Some even challenged the blogger's expectations: 'What are you expecting then? Kick them out to some remote area in the city, like they do in the West, so that the artificial aesthetics are maintained with an illusion that oh look, there are no poor in the West?'- Ends
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
News18
20 minutes ago
- News18
Neha Kakkar's ‘Badmaash' Post Gets A Red Heart Reply From Brother Tony Kakkar
Last Updated: Neha Kakkar's ensemble featured a sheer long-sleeved top, featuring strategically placed cut-outs in the neck and collarbone areas, highlighting an edgy vibe. Neha Kakkar knows how to set trends with her youthful and trend-forward approach to fashion. Known for her bold and expressive mix of glam and streetwear, the 37-year-old singer experiments with vibrant colours, statement co-ord sets, and playful drapes. The Badmaash singer set another example of blending comfort with high fashion as she stepped out in an all-white ensemble, exuding bold yet elegant vibes. Taking to social media, the singer shared a thread of pictures looking absolutely stunning. Neha Kakkar Sports Sheer White Co-Ord Set Neha Kakkar took to Instagram and shared a series of behind-the-scenes snaps of getting ready in a gorgeous white co-ord set. Her ensemble featured a sheer long-sleeved top, featuring strategically placed cut-outs in the neck and collarbone areas, highlighting an edgy vibe. The bodice of her top had a sweetheart neckline with a fitted and ruched bustier peeking through the sheer overlay. Kakkar paired the top with high-waisted sheer pants underneath a mini skirt-style lining, imitating the viral skirt-over-pants trend. Her pants were wide-legged and flowy, matching the texture of her top. Kakkar styled her outfit with metallic platform heels and silver handcuffs and jewellery. Her hair was styled in soft, voluminous waves as she opted for fresh, dewy makeup, keeping her overall look sultry and playful. Sharing the pictures, the singer quoted a line from her latest song, Badmaash, which read, 'Atki Aankhien Tujhpe Meri Jaise Cassette VCR mein!" followed by a heart eyes emoji. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Neha Kakkar (@nehakakkar) How Fans Reacted Soon after sharing the pictures, fans jumped to the comment section to praise the singer. One fan wrote, 'Omggg! Queen stealing hearts left, right, and centre!" Another fan commented, 'Absolutely stunning," followed by a fire emoji. Someone else added, 'The last one has my whole heart," while another fan simply asked, 'How can someone look this perfect every time?!" Neha Kakkar Makes Waves With Latest Track Badmaash Neha Kakkar's recent track Badmaash, in collaboration with his brother Tony Kakkar, who wrote the lyrics as well as composed the song, has become a chart-topping number. With catchy beats and eye-catching visuals, the music video has surpassed 42 lakh views in just two weeks and gained over 26,000 likes on YouTube. Channelling her electrifying on-screen energy in the Badmaash music video, Neha Kakkar proves once again why she is considered the queen of Indian pop. First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
News18
32 minutes ago
- News18
Kiara Advani's Nutritionist Breaks Down Her War 2 Bikini Body Transformation
Last Updated: Kiara Advani's physical transformation for War 2 has left her fans impressed. Her nutritionist revealed how the actor achieved the bikini body with mindful eating and discipline. On 31st July, Kiara Advani celebrated her 34th birthday. The actor gave fans more than just a celebration; she delivered a visual treat in the sizzling new track Aavan Jaavan from the much-anticipated War 2. Her on-screen chemistry with Hrithik Roshan turned heads, but it was her sculpted bikini-body debut that truly stole the spotlight. Behind that transformation was not a crash diet, but a structured wellness strategy crafted by nutritionist Nicole Linhares Kedia. View this post on Instagram A post shared by KIARA (@kiaraaliaadvani) Forget extreme dieting or trend-driven cleanses. 'Kiara had a fairly clean eating style; she loves ghar ka khana," Nicole told Pinkvilla. But to get camera-ready, they elevated her routine with precision. 'The biggest challenge was adjusting her macros, especially increasing protein, while keeping her in a steady calorie deficit," she explained. This meant monitoring even the tiniest elements, like cooking oil or cheese shavings, to stay on target without taking away the joy of eating. Protein-Packed Mornings With A Twist Kiara Advani 's breakfast was a key focus. To fuel her long shoots, her go-to was pancakes made from oat and walnut flour, enriched with protein powder. Natural sweeteners like monk fruit extract or maple syrup added flavour, topped with berries and homemade hazelnut butter. The result? A meal that was both satisfying and functional, nourishing her body while keeping her energy up. Balanced Meals Over Bland Ones Lunches and dinners weren't about restriction; they were about balance. Grilled proteins like chicken, light Indian curries, and vegetables such as baby potatoes and asparagus made regular appearances. Her plates were colourful and nutrient-dense, featuring dips like edamame pesto hummus and healthy fats from avocado. 'Her meals were tailored to her physical activity for the day," Nicole shared. 'We avoided processed foods and focused on vibrant, wholesome ingredients." Desi Fuel For Post-Workout Recovery For recovery, Kiara ditched synthetic shakes and turned to a traditional hero: sattu chhaas. This hydrating post-workout drink, made with roasted Bengal gram flour, cumin, and coriander, provided cooling relief and muscle-repairing protein. 'Kiara stayed true to her roots with this age-old remedy," Nicole added. 'It helped her recover naturally." There were no gimmicks involved, just mindful eating, routine, and discipline. Kiara's transformation reminds us that sustainable fitness isn't about extremes, but smart choices tailored to your body and lifestyle. Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: August 01, 2025, 17:00 IST News lifestyle » health-and-fitness Kiara Advani's Nutritionist Breaks Down Her War 2 Bikini Body Transformation Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
The Hindu
42 minutes ago
- The Hindu
If walls could speak: 4 wallpapers that redefine home decor
One of the easiest and most efficient ways to add colour, depth and texture to your walls is by the use of wallpaper. 'Wallpaper has seen a remarkable resurgence in Indian homes because it offers something that paint alone cannot, that is, a chance to tell a story, to infuse character, and to evoke emotion in a space. Unlike plain walls, wallpaper allows homeowners to create distinctive focal points, layer textures, and experiment with colour and pattern in ways that transform a room's personality' says Apourva Sharma co-founder, Life n Colors. Further, the convenience that wallpapers offer cannot be denied. 'It is long lasting and gives the space a quick makeover and character without major renovation or the hassle of paint. With so many patterns and finishes available, homeowners can easily reflect their personal style and elevate the overall aesthetic of their space' says Neha Jain, Co-Founder, UDC Homes. While wallpapers today have become a statement of art and expression and serve to set the tone for the entire space, choosing the right wall paper that resonates with your overall design sensibilities is important. Bold prints and vibrant colours work well for areas like the living room but make sure to coordinate colours and patterns with other elements like furniture, furnishings and accessories. This helps to tie the space together creating a sense of unison and cohesiveness. Do not mix too many textures and prints as it is bound to create visual clutter. Further avoid other statement pieces like large mirrors, artwork etc in the space to allow the wallpaper to take centre stage. Botanical prints tend to create a calming, rejuvenating effect and are hence suited for spaces like the bedroom; choose muted hues and plain textures for high traffic spaces like the kitchen and dining area. The size of the room is yet another important factor to consider while choosing your wallpaper design. Subtle patterns and light colours are best suited for compact rooms as they tend to make the space feel larger and airy. Bright colours and larger prints will make small spaces feel today are all about bespoke storytelling, tactile experiences and sustainability. Think expansive botanicals, misty forests, or dreamy cityscapes that turn a wall into a window to another world. 'Retro geometrics from the 70s, Mughal florals, and art deco patterns are being reimagined through a contemporary lens. Nature-inspired palettes including soft terracotta, moss greens and sandy neutrals which reflect the growing desire for earthy, grounding interiors are in vogue' says Ashutosh Pandey, co-founder, Life n Colors. More homeowners are choosing wallpapers made from eco-friendly, non-toxic materials. 'Hand-drawn and embroidered motifs are gaining attention, as is a return to artisanal techniques and earthy palettes. At the same time, digital precision and sustainable materials are steering wallpaper design into a future that feels both responsible and romantic' says Surbhi N. Bagla, founder, Chitrakaari. Chitrakaari Transforming plain walls into works of art, every wallpaper at Chitrakaari begins with artwork that is meticulously hand-painted by artists inspired by culture, craft, and the earth. These designs are then digitally transformed and sometimes enhanced with embroidery, foiling, or layering to create luxurious wallpaper. 'Each collection is deeply rooted in a story, often poetic yet purposeful and produced in a way that supports artisan livelihoods and mindful design,' adds Bagla. Many of their designs are inspired by photographic memory and hence entail capturing the essence of real trees, plants, and natural landscapes and bringing them into modern concrete homes. The process often begins with hand sketching and watercolour painting, allowing them to preserve the softness and organic flow of nature. Most designs have subtle influences of traditional art forms like pichwai and the symmetry of Mughal gardens, making it a harmonious blend of art and memory, which are designed to make walls feel alive and rooted. Their latest collection, Petals, Palms and Pixels, is an ode to verdant greenery and is an immersive collection that brings the outside in. Think sweeping canopies of trees, quiet corners of tropical foliage, wildflowers in bloom and gardens kissed by soft brushstrokes and subtle pixel details. These designs have a deep sensory quality and are less rooted in narrative but more in emotion. It invites pause, and feels like a breath of fresh air in any space. Nilaya by Asian Paints Nilaya by Asian Paints is one of India's leading wallcoverings brand, offering a wide and diverse range of wallcoverings in the country across price points, design styles and quality tiers. Nilaya stands apart for its deep commitment to design innovation and excellence. Backed by its in-house design team, Nilaya continuously tracks global and Indian design trends, travelling across regions to craft offerings that are not only on-trend but also culturally resonant and unique. The brand has built a strong legacy of collaborations with celebrated names such as Sabyasachi, Tilla, Good Earth and Nicobar, bringing an unmistakable signature to Indian walls. It is key to note that Nilaya also curates wallcoverings from some of the most renowned global design houses, including Pierre Frey, Sanderson Design Group, 1838, GP & J Baker, Eijffinger and Marburg. This ensures that Indian consumers have access to the best of global craftsmanship and creativity. With Nilaya, walls become more than just surfaces — they become a medium of expression, artistry, and timeless elegance. UDC Homes The wallpapers from UDC homes whisper stories of nature and nostalgia with their nature-inspired prints, florals, bold geometric, as well as botanical patterns. 'Our wallpapers go beyond decoration; they are works of intricate craftsmanship and art,' says Jain. Their latest collection, Soie Lumière, features hand-embellished silk, linen and metallic surfaces with details like 3D embroidery, pearl detailing and hand-painted chinoiserie. Every piece is hand-finished, fully customisable and crafted with the vision of making walls truly luxurious. The collection is inspired by global craft traditions and fine textile artistry and features surface techniques like wire embroidery, pearl embellishments and hand-painted motifs drawn from heritage crafts. 'Our work brings together artisans from India, Europe and East Asia and celebrates textile heritage with a contemporary twist. Designs like Dancing Ginkgo, Snowfall Silk, and Jardin Bleu are just not decorative, they tell poetic stories inspired by nature, seasons and timeless beauty,' adds Jain. The unique fusion of hand-embellished techniques on luxurious bases like mulberry silk, slub linen, and soft metallics make these pieces tactile masterpieces that elevate the wall into a layered, couture experience. The collection allows complete personalisation, from colour palette to scale, giving designers and homeowners the ability to tailor each piece to their specific space and sensibilities. The collection marks a deliberate shift toward haute décor, where the wallpaper becomes a canvas of craftsmanship, heritage and quiet elegance. Life n Colors At Life n Colors, wallpapers are more than just decorative elements — they are designed to add layers of meaning, texture, and sensory richness to a space. 'By blending traditional art influences with modern techniques, we aim to create designs that feel both contemporary and connected to cultural roots. A key distinguishing feature is our exploration of materials and finishes. We experiment with textures like lime plasters, metallic washes, and hand-layered effects to add depth and tactile interest. These elements not only enhance the look of a space but also engage other senses, creating a more immersive environment,' adds Sharma. There is also a focus on sustainability. 'All our wallpapers are produced on eco-friendly, non-toxic substrates, and we take active steps to minimise our environmental footprint through carbon-neutral practices' adds Pandey. Most of their collections draw inspiration from India's rich culture and artistic heritage and pay tribute to indigenous art forms while reimagining them for contemporary interiors. Whether inspired by the timeless spirituality of Varanasi, Madhubani's meditative geometry, Kalighat's expressive brushwork or Sanjhi paper-cutting, the designs use modern colour palettes and formats that resonate with today's design sensibilities. Their latest collection, Amazora, is a celebration of global artistic dialogue and draws on influences from across the world — be it the fluidity of Japanese sumi-e ink art, the vibrancy of Latin American folk patterns, or the serenity of Scandinavian minimalism. Sand-wash textures, layered metallics, and soft-touch matte surfaces add a delightful tactile dimension to these wallpapers. The Bengaluru-based freelance writer is passionate about all things design, travel, food, art and culture.
