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The ending of The Long Good Friday is iconic, as the camera lingers on Bob Hoskins' expressive face for a full minute, viewers witness a silent, powerful reckoning. Credit : PINTEREST
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Time of India
10 hours ago
- Time of India
How social media reinvented the charcuterie board
Once upon a time, a charcuterie board was a rustic French spread: cured meats, aged cheeses, a bit of bread, maybe some olives. It was elegant but predictable, the kind of thing you would see in wine bars or European kitchens. Fast forward to today, and thanks to social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest, the charcuterie board has transformed into a cultural phenomenon, far beyond its traditional origins. Social media did not just popularize the charcuterie board, it reinvented it. What was once a niche gourmet platter has now become a blank canvas for creativity, a viral aesthetic, and a new kind of food performance. The rise of the 'Instagrammable' board A turning point came when food styling met social media. People realized that arranging foods in vibrant, geometric, or whimsical patterns was not just tasty, it was instantly shareable. A wheel of brie with honey drizzled across it, strawberries fanned out like petals, and salami folded into roses? That is not just food; that is content. The hashtag #charcuterieboard has amassed millions of posts, each one pushing the boundaries of design. Some boards look like mosaics, others resemble landscapes. The board is no longer only eaten; it is photographed, admired, and then consumed. Beyond meat and cheese Another way social media has reinvented charcuterie is by loosening its definition. Online, you will find entire themed boards that barely resemble the French original. There are: Breakfast boards filled with pancakes, fruits, syrups, and coffee shots. Dessert boards stacked with cookies, truffles, and chocolates. Vegan boards featuring hummus, roasted veggies, and nut cheeses. Even candy boards and fast-food boards have had their moment. The trend shows how social media democratizes food culture. You do not need access to imported cured meats to make a charcuterie board. You just need a cutting board, some creativity, and an eye for presentation. A new kind of hosting Charcuterie's reinvention also reflects the way we gather today. The modern board is all about abundance and inclusivity. It is casual enough for friends who just want to graze, but chic enough for dinner parties. Social media taught us that food does not always have to be plated in individual portions. Instead, a board invites people to come together, share, and interact, making it as much about the experience as the flavors. Viral aesthetics: the board as art What makes charcuterie boards so addictive on feeds is their visual appeal. Bright fruits against creamy cheeses, glossy olives nestled beside rustic crackers, edible flowers sprinkled like confetti — it is a color palette designers dream of. Food influencers have leaned into this, offering tutorials on how to fold meat into roses or arrange cheeses in perfect diagonals. The process itself has become satisfying content. People watch time-lapse videos of boards being built, enjoying the calm, ASMR-like precision of it all. The business of boards It did not take long for entrepreneurs to catch on. Across cities, charcuterie stylists now offer curated boards and grazing tables for weddings, parties, and events. Small businesses promote their boards on social media, often selling out through nothing more than carefully styled posts. For many, this side hustle has turned into a thriving business. It is proof that social media is not just influencing what we eat but creating entirely new industries around it. The future: from trend to tradition? The charcuterie board may have started as a rustic French tradition, but in the social media era, it has become something larger — a cultural shorthand for creativity, community, and abundance. Whether it is a butter board going viral or an elaborate grazing table at a wedding, the evolution shows no signs of slowing down. What is next? Possibly more playful, hyper-specific boards: ramen boards, dosa boards, even regional Indian snack boards. The beauty of the charcuterie trend is its adaptability. There is no single right way to do it anymore. Social media did not just reinvent the charcuterie board, it turned it into an idea. A board is now a stage, a story, a shared moment. And in an age where food is photographed as much as it is eaten, the charcuterie board is the perfect star.
Hindustan Times
a day ago
- Hindustan Times
Crochet comeback: Here's how Gen Z made grandma's hobby the hottest trend this year
Once upon a time, crochet lived in grandma's closet in forms of colourful cardigans, table runners, maybe even a hat or two. Fast forward to 2025, and crochet has staged the most chic comeback, rebranded as boho-meets-Y2K-meets-runway. From breezy tops and summer co-ords to handbags and bucket hats, crochet is no longer 'old-fashioned.' It's It-girl approved. Crochet comeback: Here's how Gen Z made grandma's hobby the hottest trend this year(Pexels) But why the sudden obsession? Simple: crochet is equal parts nostalgic, sustainable, and effortlessly stylish. It gives that handmade, artsy vibe like you thrifted it in Bali or made it yourself (no one needs to know you didn't). Crochet works for both lazy-day dressing and statement-making fits. It's versatile, comfortable, and practically screams cool without trying too hard. 1. Crochet tops = Instant boho vibes Nothing says summer chic like a crochet crop top. Pair it with high-waisted denims, maxi skirts, or even linen shorts. Add chunky jewellery and messy beach waves for the ultimate Coachella but make it casual vibe. Recreate the look: Throw on a crochet halter with wide-leg trousers and oversized sunnies. 2. Crochet dresses = One-and-done cool girl energy Slipping into a crochet dress is like a style cheat code, you've put in zero effort but look like you walked out of a Pinterest board. Be it fitted minis or flowy maxis, crochet dresses nail that 'effortlessly pretty' mood. Recreate the look: Go for a pastel crochet midi, add a woven tote, and finish with platform sandals. 3. Crochet bags = Social media's favourite accessory Crochet handbags and totes are everywhere. They add texture, colour, and a playful pop to any look. Plus, they're functional (finally, a cute bag that can actually hold stuff). Recreate the look: Pair a bright crochet tote with your simplest white tee and jeans. 4. Crochet bucket hats = Quirky yet cute Bucket hats were already trending, but crochet bucket hats? That's peak aesthetic. Perfect for beach trips, brunches, or just covering a bad hair day in style. Recreate the look: Try a rainbow crochet bucket hat with a slip dress and suddenly you're the main character. 5. Crochet swimwear – Poolside drama Nothing screams summer like a crochet bikini or cover-up. Retro yet modern, it's a daring but fashionable statement piece. Recreate it: Stick to bright colours or metallic yarns for that Instagram-worthy poolside look. 6. Crochet co-ords – Match made in heaven Two-piece crochet sets are the cool girl uniform. Be it a skirt and top or shorts and bralette, they're perfect for music festivals or rooftop parties. Recreate it: Go monochrome for a chic look, or mix funky patterns for a playful twist. Similar stories for you: The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3: Outfits you'll want to wear all year long 7 Must-have wardrobe staples for plus-size women in 2025: Styling tips and more 7 Handbag trends to follow in 2025: The arm candy upgrade your wardrobe deserves Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, concerning the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
India Today
2 days ago
- India Today
Is Mumbai on track to be the concert capital of India?
Coldplay concert in Mumbai (Photo: Instagram/Coldplay) Mumbai has always been the first choice for artists performing in India Fans across India are ready to travel to attend these live events Goa's prominence as a concert hub is slowly fading away In the past few years, concert culture in India has picked up pace and continues to draw bigger crowds. International artists are making frequent stopovers across Indian cities, and Mumbai is almost never left out. This rise begs the question: is the city of dreams becoming the concert capital of India? But why are we talking only about Mumbai when Delhi and other metros also host their share of music festivals? Well, here's the clincher: Asia's biggest electronic dance music festival, Sunburn, recently announced its shift from legacy town Goa to Mumbai. If anything, that only cements the idea that the coastal city is having its moment. India's concert culture It's official, concert culture in India is strumming louder than ever. You may not head to the cinema as often any more, choosing instead to binge-watch from the comfort of your couch. But when it comes to live music, the experience is unmatched, and tickets sell out faster than ever. According to Throwback 2024, BookMyShow's year-end report on entertainment consumption, last year saw 30,687 live events across 319 cities, marking an impressive 18% growth in India's live entertainment scene. Over 4.7 lakh fans even travelled outside their cities to attend concerts, proof of how music is powering a new wave of travel and tourism. Of course, concerts aren't new to India. They've been around for decades. But the boom is recent. Just last year, Coldplay hosted India's largest-ever ticketed concert in Ahmedabad. And if you were anywhere near the internet then, you'd know, it looked like the entire world had shown up at that stadium. Because yes, FOMO is real. Coldplay concert in Ahmedabad (Photo: Instagram/Coldplay) Among other things, Instagram Reels, Pinterest boards, and social media in general have become a major driver for the younger generation to invest in these experiences. And the cherry on top? The inclusivity of taste. From EDM, Indie, folk, and rap to commercial English and filmy songs, there's always a concert waiting to take you into that trance. Singer and music composer Ruuh (Reuel Benedict) points out how, in the past few years, audiences (Gen Z and millennials) have become increasingly receptive. 'They are open to new experiences and trying something new. These are people who truly show up for the music. In fact, sometimes it's possibly more for the music than for seeing us on stage, which is a great thing. It's where music transcends all,' she says. Booming concert economy The evident rise in concerts isn't just about Indian artists, international performers are looking east more than ever before. David Guetta, DJ Snake, and Martin Garrix have already performed in India, but lately, the likes of Coldplay, Dua Lipa, Travis Scott, Enrique Iglesias, and others are making this side of the music scene a priority too. India is the second-largest market globally when it comes to audio streaming numbers for artists, making it a focus region for international tours. Notably, India's concert economy crossed Rs 12,000 crore in 2024, according to an Ernst & Young report, and is projected to grow at a CAGR of about 19 per cent over the next three years. By 2026, the market is expected to touch around USD 1.7 billion (Rs 1,48,92 crore). But, it wasn't long ago that Goa had the beach, sand, and the spotlight too. For almost two decades, it was the host to the highly anticipated Sunburn Festival. 'Goa's prominence as a concert hub has a lot to do with its unique cultural and geographical appeal. The relaxed atmosphere, diverse cultural influences, and stunning beach venues created the perfect backdrop for immersive festivals, from iconic Goa trance gatherings to large-scale events like Sunburn,' Nishant Pitti, chairman and co-founder of EaseMyTrip, tells India Today. EDM festival in Goa (Photo: Instagram/Sunburn) However, Karan Agarwal, director, Cox and Kings, points out that paradise is not without its limits. 'While it offered a festival-goer the complete package - music, sun, sand, and a party atmosphere - Goa's capacity constraints in infrastructure, accommodation, and crowd management began to limit how big these concerts could get as audiences and artist expectations evolved.' And meanwhile, the beats have started to shift to Mumbai. Is Mumbai leading the concert culture? There isn't just one reason, but several, that make Mumbai the hub of all things entertainment. 'Mumbai is definitely becoming the top concert destination in India. There's something special about watching a performance there, with the skyline in the background or the sea breeze running through the crowd,' says Rachita Sharma, a concert enthusiast and media professional. Infrastructure and Accessibility The city offers strong logistical advantages, one of the reasons organisers are relocating concerts here, says Pitti. Mumbai boasts world-class venues, robust connectivity with two major airports, and an unmatched hospitality ecosystem. 'Mumbai, with its unmatched infrastructure, deep connection to youth culture, and its excitable, creative energy that mirrors Sunburn's own, was the unmatched, right fit for this next chapter,' Karan Singh CEO, Sunburn, adds. Audience It's not just fans who value the concert experience; artists thrive on the energy of a Mumbai crowd. 'Personally, as a performer, seeing people spend money, come out to watch live music, and bring so much energy, that's what I look forward to the most. It's what makes me want to play live more,' shares Ruuh. He also points out the diversity of the city's audience: 'At Lollapalooza this year, I saw 10 and 11-year-olds, and also 55–60-year-olds, all willing to come out and experience music together.' For Gen Z especially, a concert isn't just an event, it's an experience worth travelling miles for, spending on, and making unforgettable in their own way. That demand has a ripple effect on travel and hospitality. During events like Coldplay or Lollapalooza in Mumbai, luxury hotel rates near venues have surged up to five times, with some crossing Rs 1 lakh per night, while budget and mid-range options sell out well in advance. Why? Disposable incomes and the value of experience. 'There's a rapidly expanding audience that is increasingly geography-agnostic, willing to travel across India for world-class experiences, and aware of the fact that globally renowned talent is now accessible right here,' says Naman Pugalia, chief business officer – Live Events, BookMyShow. Even then, demand in Mumbai outpaces other cities. According to the co-founder of EaseMyTrip, while places like Ahmedabad, Delhi, and Kolkata also see significant spikes in bookings and hotel occupancy, Mumbai consistently sees quicker sellouts and sharper price hikes. Bollywood link Of course, Mumbai's status as the entertainment capital plays a huge role in making it artists' favourite stop. The city naturally creates opportunities for collaborations, pushing Indian music onto the global stage. Ever since Ed Sheeran's first Indian concert, for instance, he has gone on to team up with several Indian singers. Diljit Dosanjh, A.R. Rahman, Jonita Gandhi, and Lisa Mishra have all performed alongside him. It's not just about the economy, it's a big win for the Indian music industry too. 'Every time there's an opening act for these massive international names, the world is noticing Indian singers too. That's also why someone like Diljit Dosanjh is now playing at festivals like Coachella and doing international tours. It's a win-win,' says the singer. Delhi vs Mumbai: Which one's got better potential? So, when it comes to enjoying live music, are you Team Delhi or Team Mumbai? We hate to break it to all the Dilliwalas, but Mumbai has been stealing the show. From Coldplay to Guns N Roses, the biggest names are choosing Indian stages, and more often than not, that stage is in Mumbai. For most international artists, Mumbai is the priority stop. Delhi often comes second on the list, and sometimes doesn't make the cut at all. While that may slowly be changing, for now, Mumbai still takes the lead. 'Mumbai is cosmopolitan and there's a vibe I love that's kind of missing in other venues,' says Surajit Dasgupta, a product manager. 'Unlike other metros, Mumbai has the unique ability to bring together a cosmopolitan audience, a strong sponsor ecosystem, and international-standard facilities in one place,' adds the director of Cox and Kings. At the end of the day, perceptions will differ, but if you glance through most artists' tour schedules, one thing is clear, Mumbai remains the first choice. But Mumbai's notes aren't all perfect. As the beats finally drop for the night and the glitters ebb away with sweat and breeze, the journey home can be a task at times. Long waits for cabs, bumper-to-bumper jams, and unhygienic washrooms have been some of the logistical challenges. Mumbai's dense urban layout and chronic traffic snarls make crowd flow and last-mile movement tougher. For the experience to truly come full circle, last-mile connectivity, parking, and timely public transport need to click into place. As Rachita Sharma points out, Delhi-NCR handles the logistics more smoothly. 'In Mumbai, it can feel like the concert starts in the traffic jam outside the venue. The city nails the sound setups, but in Delhi, the extra space makes the whole experience less stressful.' Conclusion The fact that global artists are expanding their India tours is proof that live music in the country has never been stronger. Karan Singh believes the future of concert tourism here is incredibly bright. India is ready: audiences are passionate, willing to travel for unique experiences, infrastructure is improving, and city administrations are increasingly open to enabling world-class shows. All of this makes the country poised to become one of the most exciting live music destinations in the world. The only question is, will Mumbai win the race to become India's concert capital, or will some other city checkmate the Maximum City? Either way, the stage has never looked more promising. In the past few years, concert culture in India has picked up pace and continues to draw bigger crowds. International artists are making frequent stopovers across Indian cities, and Mumbai is almost never left out. This rise begs the question: is the city of dreams becoming the concert capital of India? But why are we talking only about Mumbai when Delhi and other metros also host their share of music festivals? Well, here's the clincher: Asia's biggest electronic dance music festival, Sunburn, recently announced its shift from legacy town Goa to Mumbai. If anything, that only cements the idea that the coastal city is having its moment. India's concert culture It's official, concert culture in India is strumming louder than ever. You may not head to the cinema as often any more, choosing instead to binge-watch from the comfort of your couch. But when it comes to live music, the experience is unmatched, and tickets sell out faster than ever. According to Throwback 2024, BookMyShow's year-end report on entertainment consumption, last year saw 30,687 live events across 319 cities, marking an impressive 18% growth in India's live entertainment scene. Over 4.7 lakh fans even travelled outside their cities to attend concerts, proof of how music is powering a new wave of travel and tourism. Of course, concerts aren't new to India. They've been around for decades. But the boom is recent. Just last year, Coldplay hosted India's largest-ever ticketed concert in Ahmedabad. And if you were anywhere near the internet then, you'd know, it looked like the entire world had shown up at that stadium. Because yes, FOMO is real. Coldplay concert in Ahmedabad (Photo: Instagram/Coldplay) Among other things, Instagram Reels, Pinterest boards, and social media in general have become a major driver for the younger generation to invest in these experiences. And the cherry on top? The inclusivity of taste. From EDM, Indie, folk, and rap to commercial English and filmy songs, there's always a concert waiting to take you into that trance. Singer and music composer Ruuh (Reuel Benedict) points out how, in the past few years, audiences (Gen Z and millennials) have become increasingly receptive. 'They are open to new experiences and trying something new. These are people who truly show up for the music. In fact, sometimes it's possibly more for the music than for seeing us on stage, which is a great thing. It's where music transcends all,' she says. Booming concert economy The evident rise in concerts isn't just about Indian artists, international performers are looking east more than ever before. David Guetta, DJ Snake, and Martin Garrix have already performed in India, but lately, the likes of Coldplay, Dua Lipa, Travis Scott, Enrique Iglesias, and others are making this side of the music scene a priority too. India is the second-largest market globally when it comes to audio streaming numbers for artists, making it a focus region for international tours. Notably, India's concert economy crossed Rs 12,000 crore in 2024, according to an Ernst & Young report, and is projected to grow at a CAGR of about 19 per cent over the next three years. By 2026, the market is expected to touch around USD 1.7 billion (Rs 1,48,92 crore). But, it wasn't long ago that Goa had the beach, sand, and the spotlight too. For almost two decades, it was the host to the highly anticipated Sunburn Festival. 'Goa's prominence as a concert hub has a lot to do with its unique cultural and geographical appeal. The relaxed atmosphere, diverse cultural influences, and stunning beach venues created the perfect backdrop for immersive festivals, from iconic Goa trance gatherings to large-scale events like Sunburn,' Nishant Pitti, chairman and co-founder of EaseMyTrip, tells India Today. EDM festival in Goa (Photo: Instagram/Sunburn) However, Karan Agarwal, director, Cox and Kings, points out that paradise is not without its limits. 'While it offered a festival-goer the complete package - music, sun, sand, and a party atmosphere - Goa's capacity constraints in infrastructure, accommodation, and crowd management began to limit how big these concerts could get as audiences and artist expectations evolved.' And meanwhile, the beats have started to shift to Mumbai. Is Mumbai leading the concert culture? There isn't just one reason, but several, that make Mumbai the hub of all things entertainment. 'Mumbai is definitely becoming the top concert destination in India. There's something special about watching a performance there, with the skyline in the background or the sea breeze running through the crowd,' says Rachita Sharma, a concert enthusiast and media professional. Infrastructure and Accessibility The city offers strong logistical advantages, one of the reasons organisers are relocating concerts here, says Pitti. Mumbai boasts world-class venues, robust connectivity with two major airports, and an unmatched hospitality ecosystem. 'Mumbai, with its unmatched infrastructure, deep connection to youth culture, and its excitable, creative energy that mirrors Sunburn's own, was the unmatched, right fit for this next chapter,' Karan Singh CEO, Sunburn, adds. Audience It's not just fans who value the concert experience; artists thrive on the energy of a Mumbai crowd. 'Personally, as a performer, seeing people spend money, come out to watch live music, and bring so much energy, that's what I look forward to the most. It's what makes me want to play live more,' shares Ruuh. He also points out the diversity of the city's audience: 'At Lollapalooza this year, I saw 10 and 11-year-olds, and also 55–60-year-olds, all willing to come out and experience music together.' For Gen Z especially, a concert isn't just an event, it's an experience worth travelling miles for, spending on, and making unforgettable in their own way. That demand has a ripple effect on travel and hospitality. During events like Coldplay or Lollapalooza in Mumbai, luxury hotel rates near venues have surged up to five times, with some crossing Rs 1 lakh per night, while budget and mid-range options sell out well in advance. Why? Disposable incomes and the value of experience. 'There's a rapidly expanding audience that is increasingly geography-agnostic, willing to travel across India for world-class experiences, and aware of the fact that globally renowned talent is now accessible right here,' says Naman Pugalia, chief business officer – Live Events, BookMyShow. Even then, demand in Mumbai outpaces other cities. According to the co-founder of EaseMyTrip, while places like Ahmedabad, Delhi, and Kolkata also see significant spikes in bookings and hotel occupancy, Mumbai consistently sees quicker sellouts and sharper price hikes. Bollywood link Of course, Mumbai's status as the entertainment capital plays a huge role in making it artists' favourite stop. The city naturally creates opportunities for collaborations, pushing Indian music onto the global stage. Ever since Ed Sheeran's first Indian concert, for instance, he has gone on to team up with several Indian singers. Diljit Dosanjh, A.R. Rahman, Jonita Gandhi, and Lisa Mishra have all performed alongside him. It's not just about the economy, it's a big win for the Indian music industry too. 'Every time there's an opening act for these massive international names, the world is noticing Indian singers too. That's also why someone like Diljit Dosanjh is now playing at festivals like Coachella and doing international tours. It's a win-win,' says the singer. Delhi vs Mumbai: Which one's got better potential? So, when it comes to enjoying live music, are you Team Delhi or Team Mumbai? We hate to break it to all the Dilliwalas, but Mumbai has been stealing the show. From Coldplay to Guns N Roses, the biggest names are choosing Indian stages, and more often than not, that stage is in Mumbai. For most international artists, Mumbai is the priority stop. Delhi often comes second on the list, and sometimes doesn't make the cut at all. While that may slowly be changing, for now, Mumbai still takes the lead. 'Mumbai is cosmopolitan and there's a vibe I love that's kind of missing in other venues,' says Surajit Dasgupta, a product manager. 'Unlike other metros, Mumbai has the unique ability to bring together a cosmopolitan audience, a strong sponsor ecosystem, and international-standard facilities in one place,' adds the director of Cox and Kings. At the end of the day, perceptions will differ, but if you glance through most artists' tour schedules, one thing is clear, Mumbai remains the first choice. But Mumbai's notes aren't all perfect. As the beats finally drop for the night and the glitters ebb away with sweat and breeze, the journey home can be a task at times. Long waits for cabs, bumper-to-bumper jams, and unhygienic washrooms have been some of the logistical challenges. Mumbai's dense urban layout and chronic traffic snarls make crowd flow and last-mile movement tougher. For the experience to truly come full circle, last-mile connectivity, parking, and timely public transport need to click into place. As Rachita Sharma points out, Delhi-NCR handles the logistics more smoothly. 'In Mumbai, it can feel like the concert starts in the traffic jam outside the venue. The city nails the sound setups, but in Delhi, the extra space makes the whole experience less stressful.' Conclusion The fact that global artists are expanding their India tours is proof that live music in the country has never been stronger. Karan Singh believes the future of concert tourism here is incredibly bright. India is ready: audiences are passionate, willing to travel for unique experiences, infrastructure is improving, and city administrations are increasingly open to enabling world-class shows. All of this makes the country poised to become one of the most exciting live music destinations in the world. The only question is, will Mumbai win the race to become India's concert capital, or will some other city checkmate the Maximum City? Either way, the stage has never looked more promising. Join our WhatsApp Channel
