Latest news with #Mughal-inspired
Hindustan Times
21-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Hindustan Times
Bring summer garden indoors with floral print pieces, the hottest home decor and interior design trend right now
Summer is the perfect time to bring the outdoors in with fresh, floral prints that uplift and energise your home. The beauty of summer comes indoor with floral print décor that adds charm, colour and freshness to your space where whether you love bold blossoms or soft, delicate patterns, floral accents instantly brighten up any room. She suggested, 'Look for pieces in summer-friendly palettes such as soft pinks, leafy greens, sunny yellows and calming blues to create a light and airy ambiance. Pair bold prints with neutrals to balance the look, or layer similar tones for a more coordinated feel. Accentuate floral textiles with natural elements — think rattan, terracotta and indoor plants.' Shuchita added, 'Whether you lean toward classic Mughal-inspired motifs or modern interpretations of wild blooms, floral prints can instantly refresh your space, adding both tradition and elegance. Ideal for bedrooms, living areas, and dining spaces, they bring nature and heritage home.' Bringing his expertise to the same, Brijesh Bansal, co-founder of Stone Art, recommended, 'Brighten your home this summer with must-have Thai-painted floral planters that bring both artistry and nature indoors. Handcrafted by skilled artisans, these ceramic pieces feature intricate flower motifs inspired by traditional Thai design, often showcasing lotus blossoms, orchids and vibrant hibiscus. Their colourful palettes — ranging from soft pastels to bold tropical hues — make them perfect for adding life to any corner of your space, whether it's a sunlit windowsill or a cosy balcony.' He further shared, 'Pair them with lush green plants or fragrant herbs to create a serene, spa-like atmosphere. These planters also serve as stunning table centerpieces or thoughtful gifts for nature lovers. Lightweight and durable, they blend beautifully with bohemian, rustic, or contemporary decor styles. Whether you're redecorating a small nook or your entire living room, these planters are a timeless, charming way to welcome summer's warmth and vibrancy into your home.' According to Dhara Shroff, head of retail at Opulin, start small with floral cushions, curtains or table runners that add pops of colour without overwhelming the space. For a bigger impact, she said, 'Consider a floral accent chair, a printed rug, or even wallpaper with soft, nature-inspired patterns. Pastel florals in shades of blush, sage, or lavender create a calm and breezy vibe, while brighter florals can energise living spaces or dining areas.' Floral prints pair beautifully with neutral furniture and natural textures. Easy to mix, match and layer, these timeless prints help your home feel cheerful, airy and always in bloom — no matter the temperature outside. Ready to give your space a fresh bloom?
Time of India
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Fashion student reimagines Shah Rukh Khan's Met Gala look and the Internet thinks it's better than the original
The 2025 Met Gala was a landmark event, not just for its usual star-studded lineup, but for the unexpected buzz around Shah Rukh Khan's debut on the iconic red carpet. While the Bollywood superstar's appearance was a significant moment, it was the creative reinterpretations of his ensemble that truly captured the internet's imagination. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Shah Rukh Khan's original ensemble For his Met Gala debut, Shah Rukh Khan donned a custom black outfit designed by . The ensemble featured a floor-length coat made from superfine Tasmanian wool, paired with a black silk shirt and tailored trousers. Accessories included layered talismanic chains, a crystal-studded 'K' pendant, a diamond star brooch, and an 18k gold cane adorned with tourmalines and sapphires. The look was a fusion of Black and Indian dandyism, reflecting Khan's global superstar status and paying homage to Mughal-inspired tailoring traditions. Utkarsh Upadhyay's AI-enhanced reinterpretations Fashion student Utkarsh Upadhyay, an alumnus of NIFT Mumbai, took to Instagram to present his AI-enhanced reinterpretations of Khan's Met Gala look. Using a blend of Indian textile heritage and AI tools, Upadhyay created five distinct designs that reimagined Khan's ensemble with a modern twist: Bandhani drape fantasy: A couture take on traditional Bandhani tie-dye prints from Gujarat and Rajasthan, layered and exaggerated for dramatic effect. Bombay art deco dandy: A sharp, gold-on-black silhouette inspired by the bold geometry of Mumbai's Art Deco buildings, combined with vintage dandy tailoring. Parsi gara elegance: A sheer coat hand-embroidered with delicate Parsi Gara motifs, reimagined for the red carpet in noir tones. Pashmina royal: Rich Kashmiri pashmina textures styled as dramatic floor-length capes and sculpted lapels, creating a soft-yet-regal silhouette. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Sabyasachi redux: A head-to-toe homage to the Sabyasachi universe - velvet, embroidery, heritage jewellery, and unapologetic maximalism. Upadhyay's designs garnered significant attention online, with many users expressing admiration for his reinterpretations. Comments ranged from "You did justice to SRK more than Sabyasachi" to "So much better than what he actually wore." Some even suggested that Upadhyay should design Khan's next Met Gala look. Vogue A blend of tradition and innovation The juxtaposition of Shah Rukh Khan's original Met Gala look with Utkarsh Upadhyay's AI-enhanced designs highlights the dynamic interplay between traditional craftsmanship and modern technology in fashion. While Khan's ensemble paid homage to Mughal-inspired tailoring traditions, Upadhyay's reinterpretations infused contemporary elements, showcasing the evolving nature of fashion and design. As the fashion industry continues to embrace technological advancements, the fusion of AI tools with traditional design practices offers exciting possibilities for future innovations. Upadhyay's work exemplifies how emerging technologies can be harnessed to reimagine and reinterpret classic styles, paving the way for a new era of fashion that honours heritage while embracing innovation. The 2025 Met Gala served as a platform for not only showcasing celebrity fashion but also for highlighting the creative talents of emerging designers like Utkarsh Upadhyay. His AI-enhanced reinterpretations of Shah Rukh Khan's ensemble sparked conversations about the future of fashion and the role of technology in design. As the industry continues to evolve, collaborations between traditional artisans and tech-savvy designers may lead to groundbreaking innovations that redefine the boundaries of fashion. For those interested in exploring more of Utkarsh Upadhyay's work and his innovative approach to fashion design, his Instagram handle 'ikilled_chanel' offers a glimpse into his creative journey and AI-assisted designs.
Mint
11-05-2025
- Business
- Mint
Punit Balana tells how to build a wardrobe that celebrates traditional crafts
Designer Punit Balana recently opened his first store in Delhi, in Ambawatta complex in Qutub Gardens. The 1,600 space, designed by Balana, reflects his eponymous brand's design philosophy of giving Jaipur's textiles and crafts a modern twist. The launch of the store, which features arched doorways, custom terrazzo flooring and antique brass accents, marks 10 years of the Jaipur brand. In an interview with Lounge, the designer, born and raised in Jaipur, talks about the new store, his new collection, Johari 2.0, and completing 10 years in the fashion industry. Edited excerpts: How was the process of conceptualising the Delhi store? I infused every inch with my signature details, from terracotta pink and olive tones to arches, coin embroidery on curtains, and 'chandi tila" work on the mirrors. Everything, right down to the crafted cushions and lighting, was handmade in our Jaipur studio. Also read: Cricketer KL Rahul is Paul & Shark's global brand ambassador Why did you choose Qutub Garden as the store's location? It's an area rich in heritage and history, which resonates with our design ethos. The blend of old-world charm with contemporary luxury felt like the perfect canvas for our Delhi debut. The label clocks in 10 years. How's been the retail journey? Retail has been a big part of our journey. From Jaipur to Mumbai to now Delhi, each new store has been a milestone. I've learnt how essential it is to adapt - whether it's to customer preferences or the retail landscape. How's been the process of repurposing the age-old craft techniques of bandhini and and Kalamkari into contemporary creations? I'm a huge fan of Indian traditional craft, especially the prints and textiles from Jaipur. Bandhani has always been a staple, and for our summer line, we've really pushed ourselves, merging Kalamkari techniques with Mughal-inspired motifs to create a whole new print language. It's about making these age-old crafts feel relevant, wearable and globally appreciated. The brand's always been about signature Jaipur hues like pink and mint green. Will you ever do a monochromatic collection? That would be a great creative challenge! As long as the craftsmanship and soul remain, the colour story can evolve. Let's talk about your new collection, Johari 2.0. What was your moodboard? The original Johari collection in 2024 was one of our most appreciated and well-received drops and I felt there was still more to explore. Johari 2.0 carries forward that same design language, but with newer silhouettes, fresh colour stories, and evolved embroideries. What advice would you like to offer those who want to build a craft-based closet? We live in a country rich in textile, craft, and hand-made excellence. The kind of artisanal work India can produce is unmatched globally. That's why, as a designer and as a custodian of craft, I believe it's important to honour this heritage. Don't just buy a piece because it looks good, pause and ask: What's the craft behind this? Where's the fabric from? If we begin to respect our own craft, the world will follow. A meaningful closet should be a blend of beauty and story, not just trend. Is there a method to your creative process? I don't travel for inspiration, but I find that travel always ends up feeding my creativity. Every time I come back from a trip, I feel like a new person recharged, more imaginative, and ready to dive back into work with fresh energy. I observe, absorb and evolve through these experiences. Travel is less of a visual reference and more of an emotional reset for me. Do you see yourself venturing into couture/decor categories anytime soon? Fashion, architecture, and decor are all deeply connected and as a creative person, I've never believed in boundaries. I don't plan too far ahead; I follow what excites me in the moment, whether that's couture, pret, or a completely new category. If the right opportunity comes and it feels right and challenges me creatively, I'm always ready to explore. For me, joy is in the process and new categories offer fresh wings to fly. Manish Mishra is a Delhi-based writer and content creator. Also read: From granny chic to Gen Z-approved, why it's the summer of tweed
Emirates Woman
06-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Emirates Woman
It's all in the details: How Indian stars fused cultural heritage with Met Gala spectacle
At the 2025 Met Gala, Indian stars didn't just arrive dressed—they arrived bearing centuries. In a moment where the theme, 'The Garden of Time: Tailored for You,' invited guests to reflect on personal history through the lens of fashion, Shah Rukh Khan, Kiara Advani, and Diljit Dosanjh offered something rare: a seamless fusion of ancestral tradition and contemporary couture. Their looks weren't just tailored for them—they were tailored from the threads of India's past, reframed for the world's most photographed steps. Shah Rukh Khan's debut appearance was a masterclass in restraint and refinement. Dressed by Sabyasachi Mukherjee, he wore a Mughal-inspired long coat that recalled traditional Indian menswear while integrating Western tailoring structures—a silhouette that drew from the aesthetics of Indian court dress and colonial influence. The open shirt beneath his jacket revealed layers of fine jewellery that evoked portraits of maharajas swathed in gemstones and pearls. Each element of the look held symbolic weight: a custom stack of talismanic necklaces, anchored by a crystal-studded pendant shaped as the letter 'K,' a diamond star brooch pinned to the lapel, and rings adorning his fingers. He carried a Bengal Tiger Head Cane crafted in 18k gold and set with tourmalines, sapphires, old mine-cut and brilliant-cut diamonds—an understated yet powerful nod to Indian regality. His look was absent of overt embellishment, but deeply steeped in storytelling through shape, jewellery, and presence—a deliberate move that made quiet opulence speak volumes. Kiara Advani made a poignant Met Gala debut while expecting her first child, wearing a custom ensemble by Gaurav Gupta titled Bravehearts—a look that fused maternal symbolism with the sculptural elegance of Indian craftsmanship. At its core was a gilded breastplate sculpted into two crystal-encrusted hearts, linked by a chain-like umbilical cord—an evocative ode to motherhood, legacy, and the sacred role of gold in Indian culture. In Indian tradition, gold is more than ornamental—it carries memory, protection, and spiritual resonance. Ghungroos, the metallic bells woven into the piece, further echoed classical Indian dance and ritual, adding both a rhythmic and ancestral pulse to the look. A sweeping double-paneled white cape with black trim paid tribute to the voluminous silhouettes worn by the late André Leon Talley, introducing a cross-cultural homage to fashion's most revered visionaries. The jewellery was equally rich in detail and storytelling. Adorned with statement rings, bold earrings, and ear cuffs from Outhouse Jewellery and Wrapgame India, Kiara also wore a 17-carat pear-shaped diamond piece and 5-carat heart-shaped diamond earrings by Kantilal Chhotalal, which echoed the breastplate's golden architecture. Styled by Anaita Shroff Adajania, every element of the look was intentional, exploring dualities—birth and rebirth, softness and strength, ancestral reverence and modern assertion. More than a gown, Bravehearts functioned as a deeply personal declaration: a tribute to identity, transformation, and what it means for an Indian woman to take up space on the world's most scrutinised red carpet with quiet authority and historic grace. Diljit Dosanjh made his highly anticipated Met Gala debut in a regal custom look by Nepalese-American designer Prabal Gurung, bringing Sikh heritage and Punjabi royalty to the global fashion stage with unapologetic pride. His ensemble featured an ivory sherwani-inspired suit paired with a sweeping cape embroidered with the golden map of Punjab and the Gurmukhi alphabet—an ode to language, land, and lineage. Topped with a traditional turban or pag, Dosanjh evoked the image of a Sikh maharaja, blending historical silhouettes with contemporary craftsmanship. His jewellery, too, was steeped in meaning: layers of pearl and emerald necklaces draped over his chest, accompanied by embellished rings and heirloom-style brooches that added a glint of aristocratic splendour to the overall look. In his hand, he held a lion-headed, jewel-studded kirpan in place of a walking cane—a symbolic gesture of strength, honour, and spiritual authority. Perhaps the most powerful detail of his appearance was the reference to the legendary Patiala necklace—originally commissioned in 1928 by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh and crafted by Cartier using thousands of diamonds, including the iconic 234-carat De Beers yellow diamond. Though Dosanjh's version was a contemporary tribute, the nod to one of the most opulent and culturally significant pieces of jewellery ever made was unmistakable. His layered diamond set, designed by Golecha's Jewels, echoed the grandeur of the original, grounding his look in both memory and magnificence. Worn alongside Cartier pieces like the Panthère watch and the Faune et Flore de Cartier bracelet in 18k yellow gold with emeralds, yellow, orange, and brown diamonds, every accessory furthered the story of a man carrying his culture to the most watched steps in fashion. This was not just a debut—it was a declaration of identity, told in silk, stone, and sovereign detail. Met Gala 2025: The best dressed Indian celebrities on the red carpet What united these three stars wasn't just the craftsmanship or the couture—it was their ability to use fashion as a bridge between India's rich aesthetic history and the Met Gala's global stage. Each ensemble demonstrated how heritage can be fluid, modern, and deeply personal. The clothing didn't just follow a theme—they redefined it. This was a new emblem of fusion: where past met present, and culture met couture. In an evening defined by spectacle, these Indian stars reminded the world that legacy doesn't need reinvention—it only needs reintroduction. Tailored not just for the individual, but tailored from history itself. – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram Images: Instagram
The Print
30-04-2025
- General
- The Print
Hyderabad is neglecting its Art Deco buildings. Jeera colony to Bachelors' Quarters
However, one very neglected aspect, or rather part of the city's contours, is its Art Deco buildings, which were built mostly after the 1940s. There are so many of them, and almost all are slowly being demolished by owners to make way for modern structures. For that matter, even colonial buildings like the British Residency or the Rashtrapati Nilayam, completed in 1860, make some of us nostalgic—especially if you've grown up in the old cantonment areas of Secunderabad (founded in 1806 by the British). Whenever someone talks about architecture in Hyderabad, it is either about the foundational Indo-Persian Golconda period from the 16th to 17th century or the later Mughal-inspired Nizam-era structures. Given that it is so glaring, it is also understandable that monuments like the Charminar and the Chowmahalla Palace leave people awestruck. Hyderabad's overlooked heritage Art Deco is a form of architecture that comes from the 1925 'L'exposition internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes' (International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts), held in Paris. It highlighted new styles of art, architecture, decorative arts, and industrial designs coming up in Europe and across the world. The 100th anniversary of the Art Deco style architecture was marked on 29 April. The exhibition was held specifically to showcase only new and modern designs, and no historical designs or styles were allowed. Just a few years before that, the American newspaper Chicago Tribune held a competition among architects to design its then-new building. The competition also set the tone for America's foray into the design philosophy of Art Deco architecture. The word 'Art Deco' in fact was popularised much later in the 1960s, but it essentially has three forms of design: zigzag or jazz moderne, streamline moderne and classical moderne. Zigzag buildings were essentially more opulent (some included inspiration from ancient Egyptian and Mayan cultures), while classical Art Deco was more muted as the Great Depression in the 1930s made its impact in the US. The third one, streamline moderne, stuck to industrial designs, with buildings often designed to look like ships, or planes, or even automobiles. This is what we find in Hyderabad. Hyderabad has a layered history: It has ancient medieval architecture, followed by the later Nizam-era mix of post-Mughal buildings, which also includes a blend of European architecture. And between these monuments and public spaces, the Art Deco heritage of our city is completely overlooked. One of the best examples of this is the Bachelors' Quarters building in Abids, located across the Moazzam Jahi market (built in 1935 as a market in Indo-Saracenic architecture by the last Nizam of Hyderabad, Osman Ali Khan). Built in 1941, the Bachelors Quarters—-with its ocean-liner facade—-once housed progressive Urdu writers for years. Another building that has always caught my eye is the Arya Samaj Mandir on RP Road in Secunderabad. It is an absolutely stunning structure. Until a few years ago, the Jeera colony behind it was filled with lived-in Art Deco homes. While a few still stand, many have been torn down. Also read: What makes someone a Hyderabadi—Irani chai, biryani, Nizam nostalgia, or Dakhni? Design shaped by technology Unlike Mumbai, where the Art Deco buildings (like those in Marine Drive) are protected, nothing of that sort safeguards such structures in Hyderabad. Sooner or later, most of them will make way for new construction. In a way, I get it. Many of these homes belonged to joint families that have since split, and naturally, the properties get divided too. That said, the Art Deco era was influenced by a fascination with transportation technology in the 1940s and 1950s. Hyderabad's old airport in Begumpet, built by the last Nizam, is also a beautiful structure. Across the city, even in its busiest market areas of Abids and Secunderabad, you can still spot several Art Deco buildings. Many of these buildings have interesting typography on them. Give it a few decades, and our Art Deco heritage will stand as a century-old reminder of how the idea of technology once shaped design itself. It's always nice to look at old photos of things that don't exist anymore and reminisce. What's better is if they stand the test of time. That way, we can show the future generations what modernity once looked like. Art Deco can be that, and this applies to every Indian city where it exists. Yunus Lasania is a Hyderabad-based journalist whose work primarily focuses on politics, history and culture. He tweets @YunusLasania. Views are personal. (Edited by Ratan Priya)
