Retropoplifestyle

Rekindle Your Romance this Valentine’s Day Sofitel Mumbai BKC’s Special Package

In today’s age where time is luxury, create unforgettable memories with your loved one and gift them an exquisite experience at the luxury property. This Valentine’s, allow Sofitel Mumbai BKC to play Cupid for you.

Spoil your beloved rotten this Valentine’s day by surprising them with a BMW pick-up and drop followed by a 30-minute foot massage for the two of you. A warm welcome with a chocolate hamper and flowers will ensure your day starts off on a good note.Indulge in delectable and lip-smacking dishes from an elaborate five-course meal by the poolside as you get mesmerised by the view and celebrate love with your significant other.

Where : L’OH Pool & Bar, Sofitel Mumbai BKC

When : 14th February, 2020

Cost : Rs 39,999 plus taxes

Nagaland forays into high fashion with MONGKEN ‘My BeloveD’

In a pioneering move towards consolidation of intellectual patenting and property rights on cultural heritage, the Government of Nagaland launched the brand Mongken, a handholding initiative of the Department for Development of Underdeveloped Areas (DUDA) Nagaland, in partnership with TRIFED, Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MOTA) to document the traditional patterns and motifs among the Nagas in the Eastern Nagaland Region.

Mongken was officially launched by Mr. CM Chang, Minister for Forest, Environment & Climate Change, and Justice & Law, Government of Nagaland in the presence of Mr. Pravir Krishna, Managing Director of TRIFED, Union Ministry of MOTA, Mr. Temjen Imna Along Minister for Higher and Technical &Tribal Affairs, Government of Nagaland, Mr. Toshi Wungtung, SCERT and IPR, and Mr. Bongkhao Konyak, Advisor, DUDA, Mr. KG Kenye, MP, Rajya Sabha, and Mr. L Kire, Additional Chief Secretary, Government of Nagaland. The launch was held at the Holiday Inn, Aerocity, New Delhi, the 28^th of January, 2020.

Various diplomats from across the globe attended the launch. Most prominent attendees from the international community are H.E Shin Bongkil, Ambassador, Republic of South Korea, Mr. Dato Paduka Haji Sidek Ali, High Commissioner, Brunei High Commission and Diplomats from Japan, Taiwan, and Estonian Embassy.

The event also saw the release of the Mongken catalogue by renowned Naga Fashion Designer Mr. Atsu Sekhose and Minister CM Chang.

Dr. Anungla Imdong Phom, Joint Director, DUDA, Government of Nagaland, in her introductory remarks, said that Mongken is to create economic opportunities for local designers, skilled artisans, and craftsmen from Nagaland, special focus on underdeveloped regions in Nagaland. She maintained that the garment sector remains a key area for the state, with immense potential and marketability due to its colourful, exotic motifs and patterns. Mongken would help in patenting these traditional patterns and motifs for conservation and preservation. It will also handle copyright infringement on digital platforms. She also highlighted that Mongken can help in upskilling local weavers and enthusiastic youths in taking up this career path as skilled weavers.

Mongken encourages accountability by imbibing traditional sensibilities of storytelling and respectfulness, an important part of the design and motif of every traditional Naga garment woven by traditional artisans and weavers. Therefore, Mongken garments would reflect these cultural sensibilities, at the same time, made wearable for everyday wear by seamlessly incorporating it into the modern fashion culture.

Lastly, Dr. Anungla emphasised that Mongken will function as a mode through which local products can be marketed by participating in festivals, trade expos organized by TRIFED and other similar agencies. The Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Ltd. (TRIFED) under MOTA will promote it as a collaborative venture while the apparel and clothing line of Mongken will be promoted through the Tribes India outlets across the country.

Attendees lauded the initiative of DUDA as timely and much-needed effort to boost the local economy and offer the world the beautiful traditional patterns and motifs of the Nagas. Designer Atsu Sekhose particularly appreciated the initiative as an important response to the urgency of the time to enter the competitive world of garment and apparel production for the Nagas. Sonalika Sahay hosted the launch. The four participating designers were Asen Longkumer, Tarep Longkumer, A. Ngamnoi Konyak and Seyie Zecho. Their creations were inspired by designs and motifs used among the six Naga tribes of Eastern Nagaland Region – The Konyak, The Chang, The Phom, The Yimchunger, The Sangtam and The Khiamniungan. Ms. Esther Jamir, Top model/ Choreographer, directed the show. CoreConxept Entertainment managed the event.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ptGJHL0qeIY

LMIFW AW ’20 from March 11-15

The Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) has announced the dates for the Lotus Make-up India Fashion Week in association with EbixCash Autumn-Winter 2020. The event will take place from March 11-15, 2020, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Lodhi Road, New Delhi.

The Pearl Portfolio will be held on March 15 along-with the Designer Stockroom, where you can buy ensembles at competitive prices.This season the theme revolves around art, and its influence on fashion, which is historic and replete with memorable collaborations. The LMIFW will witness its reverberations through artistic garments, expressive installations and harmonious decor as we amalgamate all three aspects of the spectrum on the runway as well.

“We are delighted to continue our relationship with Lotus Make-up and EbixCash for Autumn-Winter 2020, as we hope to introduce new ways of thinking and celebrate fashion inspired by art. That’s why we have #FashionWearsArt as our overriding theme which will emerge as a melting pot of compelling ideas,” said FDCI Chairman Sunil Sethi.

SALMAN KHAN AND JACQUELINE FERNANDEZ EXPLORE THE CHARM OF MADHYA PRADESH’S PATANGARH’S GOND PAINTINGS – UNIQUE STYLE, UNIQUE ART

Gond art is inspired by nature and its beauty lies in the intricate patterns gracing the artist’s canvas. The Gond artists from Patangarh have been keeping this art alive where every picture has a story to tell.

These paintings have a unique style and unique art which certainly mesmerizes for its unique theme. Gond art has been ruling for centuries, traditionally adorning the walls of each artists home in Patangarh.

However, with the changing times, from the walls of homes, Gond art gradually shifted to paper and canvas.

Gonds are the largest tribal community in India and they are mainly found in Madhya Pradesh and its surrounding states. Today, the works of these gond artists are being recognized around the world. For the Gond community, Gond art is majorly inspired from nature as art is everywhere in nature. The beauty of this art lies in its intricate patterns all spreading a grace on the artist’s canvas.

THE GOND ART:

Gond paintings are a form of paintings made on folk and tribal art by the Gond community. These paintings are prepared on the theme that majorly highlight nature as the main subject. Other than taking inspiration from nature to draw these paintings, myths and legends can also be another subject on which these paintings are drawn.

Kashmiri Wazwan Food Festival | Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel

Bringing Kashmir to Namma Bengaluru

Kashmir is not just called the paradise on earth for its surreal beauty but also for its authentic cuisine that is much appreciated in different parts of the world. LUSH, the fine dining restaurant at Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel known for curating some of the choicest of food fairs brings to you another alluring offering straight from jewel crown of India, Kashmir.

Curated in collaboration with Chef Bashir Wazza of Kashmir and Renaissance’s own talented Chef Sanjeev, the food festival promises an incredible line up of dishes and desserts that are bound to rekindle your palate. Some of the signature Kashmiri dishes are Gustaba, Rishtad, girda, chochwor, Shermal, Bakarkhani, Tabak massyukni, ver masala, waza kokur (machwangan korma, dhaniwal korma, Rogan) zereshk pulao, which is sure to leave you wanting for more.

One can choose from an array of authentic Kashmiri Desserts such as Kavaa crème rules, Keser Kulfi with Kava reduction, Apple fan phirni, Apple Murabba.

The taste of Wazwan is coming to you from 17th to 27th February.

Experience the best of food and hospitality like no other, only at LUSH.

What: Kashmiri Wazwan Food Festival

Where: LUSH, Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel

When: 17th February to 27th February

Time: 7 pm to 11 pm

Price: INR 2200++ per person

With Alcohol INR 5000++

Universal Music India ushers in the Valentine month with a Special Music track by Arjun Kanungo and Jonita Gandhi

Universal Music India ushers in the Valentine month

Special Music track by Arjun Kanungo and Jonita Gandhi Unveiled

Universal Music India is all set to get you in a Valentine’s mood as it unveiled a romantic ballad, ‘Dil Kho Ke’ with the two versatile singers and music producers, Arjun Kanungo and Jonita Gandhi.

The dreamy song, ‘Dil Kho Ke’ showcases two independent individuals who know what they want from life and love, without giving into other people’s expectations of them. The track is about the young generation looking for a relationship celebrates their beliefs, values and quirks. The song is composed by Arjun Kanungo, who has sung as well as featured in the song along with Jonita Gandhi.

Speaking about the association for Dil Kho Ke, Preeti Nayyar, Vice President- Brand partnerships, India and South Asia, Universal Music Group India said, “Valentine’s Day is one of the most celebrated days in the annual calendar for music. To rejoice Valentine’s Day we bring you ‘Dil Kho Ke’, a beautiful duet by two of our favourite artists Arjun Kanungo & Jonita Gandh

It’s such an amazing process working with these two artists as our belief systems are pretty much the same when it comes to great original music. ‘Dil Kho Ke’ is a song about new age relationships that today’s generation relates to. At Universal Music India we hope you enjoy and celebrate love with this song and you have as much fun as we did in crafting this”

Speaking on the new track, Arjun Kanungo said, “‘Dil Kho Ke’ is perfect for Valentine’s Day. The track is upbeat with a message that is so important in today’s context amongst the millennial. I am hoping this Valentine’s Day, everyone enjoys the song this as much as we did in creating this one!”

Echoing similar sentiments, Jonita Gandhi shared, “’Dil Kho Ke’ does a great job of capturing the minds and hearts of our current generation. It’s a peppy yet romantic song describing this generation and their needs when it comes to love and Relationship with Valentine’s day just around the corner this is a fun Love song you groove to with your special someone!

So, this Valentine’s Day, enjoy special moments with this romantic track on: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SdguhUa_2zA.

Also, available : https://UMGI.lnk.to/DilKhoKe

Singer of the 90s pop band Aryans, Sadu releases a new solo single -Hor Kinne Suboot.

Here’s an ode to love, by the familiar voice from Aryans, that made you groove to romantic melodies in the 2000s such as Ankhon Mein Tera Hi Chehra, Dekha Hai Teri Ankhon & Yeh Hawa Kehti Hai Kya among others.

Sadu, is back with a 2020 love song – Hor Kinne Sabut Lyawaan, that carries solid throwback feels of old school mush. His latest release Hor Kinne Suboot Lyawaan, is an ode to lasting love, with timeless lyrics, set to contemporary beats in a soft electronic arrangement. The video/single releases on February 5th, 2020;

Like Mausam, Hor Kinne Suboot Lyawaan is also a romantic melody. While Mausam narrates the anticipation of meeting a love interest and intensity of the waiting period, Hor Kinne… celebrates the sheer magic of serendipity that brings two people together and for that very reason it should be reiterated and cherished, time and again.

“Beyond sky-high plugins and fancy gadgets, a simple melody can truly stand out. Sometimes simple lyrics communicate the expression in the most effective manner and on occasion a weeping guitar expresses the emotion in the best fashion. I’m pleasantly surprised and also not surprised at the same time, to see how warmly people have responded to Mausam, I hope they receive Hor Kinne Suboot with as much warmth,” says Sadu.

Click here for the video | Stream the single here

Introduces Fiama Scents – Bodywashes with Touch Activated Fragrance

ITC Fiama makes a game-changing move in Personal Care

Brand Ambassador, Sara Ali Khan, endorses the Innovation

Fiama, announced the launch of Fiama Scents. A first of its kind innovation, Fiama introduces a touch activated fragrance encapsulation technology in a new range of body washes.

Innovation has been at the core of ITC’s personal care business and in the last three years, innovations from the personal care brands of ITC have consistently redefined categories and offered consumers a new perspective. With Fiama Scents, technology takes the lead to present a unique consumer experience and build a new technology in the personal care category.

Fiama Scents, crafted with fragrance encapsulation technology enables fragrance release with a slight rub on the skin for as long as 8 hours after a bath. The breakthrough technology enables long lasting fragrance delivery through skin friendly micro fragrance capsules which burst on touch or a slight rub. The micro fragrance capsules are eco-friendly as well.Developed throughextensive research at ITC’s Life Sciences and Technology Centre, Fiama Scents unveils two variants – Juniper Berries & Geranium and Mimosa &Neroli body washes.

Sameer Satpathy, Chief Executive, Personal Care Products Business Division, ITC Limited, says, “Innovation triggers new possibilities. India is a tropical country and long lasting freshness is a key category driver. As a first in India, Fiama Scents addresses this need to enhance consumer experience. Fiama Scents have the longest lasting freshness and fragrance among Body Washes in India. It also delivers on skin benefits which creates a great bathing experience. Fiama,since its inception has been an innovation leader. Be it the first ever Gel Bar designed with patented technology, and now its first ever range of body washes with fragrance encapsulation technology.”

The innovation communication also launches new brand face, Sara Ali Khan.

Sara Ali Khan, Brand Ambassador, Fiama says, “When I think Fiama, I think fresh, fun and fragrant! I am so thrilled to be a part of the Fiama family and can’t wait to introduce their new innovations. Together Fiama and I will endeavour to make every bath interesting and exciting. For me each day is a new opportunity and there’s nothing better than a fun filled Fiama bath to say Good morning!!”

The film weaves a narrative of the innovative Fiama Scents with Sara and a day in her life. The simple narrative with Sara as she navigates through her day between myriad engagements, hinges on the innovation core of the touch to activate fragrance for long lasting freshness.

Watch the film here: https://youtu.be/HaQhRDXyISY

Namita Roy Ghose, Director of the film added, “In one word, freshness! Everything about the project was young and sparkling with energy. Fiama Scents in particular is quite a breakthrough and should do well. And it was a real pleasure working with the team and with Sara Ali Khan, one of the most exciting new faces to hit the screen. She has great attitude, lots of chutzpah and will be the perfect ambassador for this brand.”

Pallavi Chakravarti, Executive Creative Director, Taproot Dentsu, India, quotes, “A new brand ambassador who is as effervescent as the latest “scent bubbles” innovation from Fiama’s stables. The simplest and cleanest (pun not intended) way to announce this new product story was to tell it like it is.”

Ritu Kumar collaborates with LENZING™ ECOVERO™ to showcase AW 20 collection ‘NATURE’S ORIGAMI’

LAKME FASHION WEEK 2020

Highlights

The designer will showcase her collection at the finale of Sustainable Day at LFW
Fabrics made of LENZING™ ECOVERO™ sustainable viscose fibre
Iconic laid out prints of Ritu Kumar legacy

Making way for a new perspective on ‘Sustainability’, designer Ritu Kumar is all set to foray into the world of environment-friendly creations with the showcase of her AW’20 collection at the finale of Sustainable Day at Lakmé Fashion Week 2020. Ritu Kumar is partnering with the Austrian fiber brand, LENZING™ ECOVERO™ to create iconic laid out prints.

About the Collection

The collection is a culmination of four stories – Mrinalini Mukherjee’s exhibit at the MET, Neo Origami, Flora & Fauna, and Sundarvan.

Owing to Mrinalini’s work with knotted textiles, the capsule encompasses fabric manipulation and the revival of age-old textile techniques. At the crossroads where modern chevron meets classic florals, you see laces and layering surfaces in Neo Origami. Festive felicity meets pleats and burnout velvet, and the abundance of la dolce vita in the potpourri of Sundarvan.

Color Canvas

The color palette is an amalgamation of vegetable dyes and carefully crafted hues from deep burgundy to faded ochre and an infusion of violets and leafy greens; it can be an agent for positive change in social, economic and environmental dimensions.

Quotes

Veteran Fashion Designer Ritu Kumar

“‘Sustainable Living’ is one of our core values and we are proud to partner with LENZING™ ECOVERO™ at the root level for the showcase of Nature’s Origami at the Lakme Fashion Week. Through this collection, our aim is to provide trend-setting styles made of sustainable viscose fiber; a shift to responsible fashion. The fashion industry is doing their bit to promote ecofriendly clothing and we believe that our creative outlook and LENZING’s commitment would result in contributing to a healthier environment”

Avinash Mane, Commercial Head, South Asia, Lenzing Group

“We are pleased to reintroduce LENZING^TM ECOVERO^TM at the Lakmé Fashion Week SS 2020 this year. Our past associations at LFW have helped in building the narrative of sustainable fashion among designers and influencers in the fashion fraternity. We look forward to our association with Ritu Kumar this season. Through this collection; we hope to create a larger outreach among the industry on adopting alternative resources and processes in their brand.”

GBTL ORGANIZES A FACTORY VISIT AT BHIWANI, HARYANA

Textile industry is growing with each passing year and it can proudly be said that one of the brands that has successfully curated the taste of its customers, is GRADO by GBTL, formerly known as Grasim and prior to that as Gwalior Suitings. The manufacturing facility is located at Bhiwani, Haryana in India, a fully integrated setup from fiber to fabrics, equipped with latest technology and machinery. The state-of-the-art spinning unit to manufacture high quality yarn for internal consumption differentiating GRADO from the rest of the market.

The factory is equipped with high quality machinery and advanced technologies ensuring quality and customers satisfaction.

With a robust design centre in place and an employee base of 3300, the plant produces 22 lakh metres/month of fashion fabrics.

The GBTL plant is the largest manufacturer of 4-way stretch fabrics, with almost 90%+ domestic market share. Due to the exceptional comfort quality and unique touch and feel, the demand for stretch fabrics has skyrocketed. Apart from stretch fabrics & the poly viscose blends, GRADO by GBTL also offers a range of cotton & synthetic suiting fabrics.

The company has established comprehensive standards of – ISO 9001:2015, OHSMS 45001:2018, SA 8000:2014, EMS 14001:2015, EnMS 50001:2011 and OEKTEX 100.

GBTL Ltd. has a strong presence not only in the Indian market with their OTC brands Grado&Graviera but a larger quantum of fabrics are manufactured to cater to the needs of International Brands.

The offering in the Domestic market is through Over The Counter (OTC) in formal menswear fabric market for Ready to Stitch fabrics to the discerning buyers & fashionistas of India. Mr. Amitabh Bachchan adds the required punch being the celebrity endorsing the brand GRADO. The Brands & Retailers division caters to brands in India as well as International buyers by supplying fabrics and also acts as Full Service Provider by offering one stop solution of fabric to garmenting.

Dhruva Singh Chauhan, Whole Time Director – GBTL expresses,“We marked our entry into the textile industry in 1965 and since then we have been at the helm of innovations in fabrics with everyday new offerings. After being acquired byDonear Industries Limited in 2017and investments made in machineries, both our exportsand domestic business have increased considerably. We have been supplying fabrics to all the top-notch apparel brands across geographies in US, Canada , Mexico , UK , Europe , Australia etc., namely, Louis Phillipe, Van Heusen, Arrow, Allen Solly, Blackberry, etc.,and to the Indian brands.We are confident that GBTL will continue to remain a strong player in the market and continue to satisfy the needs of our esteemed customers who desire nothing but the best Suiting fabrics.”