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SHILPA'S JOURNAL
Monday, March 7, 2011
Sunday, March 6, 2011
HELP, A CLICK AWAY
HELP, A CLICK AWAY
Skin trouble? Ask the expert on line
By Shilpa Raina
New Delhi, March 6 (IANS) In case you don't feel like stepping out due to acne, just log in. Thanks to technology, many people have begun to explore online platforms like Skype and chat messengers or phone calls for expert advice on skin-related problems.
This mode of consultation is restricted to quick-fix beauty treatments like botox, skin-polishing, fillers or for basic problems like tanning, acne, pigmentation and even cough and cold.
"Over the years, the use of technology has grown by leaps and bounds. We also have to keep abreast. The trend has increased tremendously. While a considerable number still prefers to come to us at the hospital, there is a substantial number taking initial consultation over phone/video applications. Given the clarity of videoconferencing, we can look at basic problems," Mumbai-based dermatologist Satish Bhatia told IANS on telephone.
"When consulting through means other than physical observation, there is more frequent check-ups, and for the final consultation patients have to come to the clinic," he added.
Another Mumbai-based dermatologist, Apratim Goel, explains what kind of queries they generally get. "We get varied types of beauty queries on phone and mail. Right from acne, allergies to tanning and excessive hair growth and birth marks. But most common are those related to acne, stretch marks and how to remove pigmentation and get glowing skin," he said.
"So we take the detailed history and also ask a patient to post us a close-up picture of the front and side of a face on mail. For minor skin issues we generally give consultations but do not give prescriptions without seeing them first. It is always advisable that the patient first comes for a consultation and then does the follow-up on phone or e-mail," he added.
Another advantage is that people in smaller cities can consult well-known experts in metros without having to visit them in the initial stages. "We have received queries from Patna, Lucknow, Bhopal, to name a few places. New patients generally get to learn about us through word of mouth and then they contact us either through phone or e-mail," said Indu Tolani, a dermatologist.
"People in tier-2, tier-3 cities generally cannot afford to visit us for small dermatological problems, especially for problems like hair fall and treatments like hair transplantation. Such patients can get immediate advice on phone and then once in a while they can come for treatments," she added.
So how are the experts paid in such cases? For one, there is no fixed rulebook. "Nothing is fixed. If the person is known to us, we sometimes don't charge for a telephonic consultation. In the case of a first-time caller also, we generally don't charge and if that person comes to consult us at the clinic then he or she is charged accordingly," said Tolani.
Though the technology-driven scenario makes things a lot easier, Goel points out it has its limitations. "To a large extent, technology is good. But not totally. Firstly, examining the skin personally makes a lot of difference versus doing it on mail or web. Secondly, lots of these patients require the help of lasers and other procedures, which cannot be carried out on phone," said Goel.
"So I would say there is definitely a limitation in handling skin issues on phone and mail, but, yes, in some cases like allergies and skin reactions, the instant help on phone helps a lot. At times we provide online help and then ask the client to come to us as soon as possible. This ensures the immediate help that prevents skin from getting worse," he added.
(Shilpa Raina can be contacted at shilpa.r@ians.in)
Skin trouble? Ask the expert on line
By Shilpa Raina
New Delhi, March 6 (IANS) In case you don't feel like stepping out due to acne, just log in. Thanks to technology, many people have begun to explore online platforms like Skype and chat messengers or phone calls for expert advice on skin-related problems.
This mode of consultation is restricted to quick-fix beauty treatments like botox, skin-polishing, fillers or for basic problems like tanning, acne, pigmentation and even cough and cold.
"Over the years, the use of technology has grown by leaps and bounds. We also have to keep abreast. The trend has increased tremendously. While a considerable number still prefers to come to us at the hospital, there is a substantial number taking initial consultation over phone/video applications. Given the clarity of videoconferencing, we can look at basic problems," Mumbai-based dermatologist Satish Bhatia told IANS on telephone.
"When consulting through means other than physical observation, there is more frequent check-ups, and for the final consultation patients have to come to the clinic," he added.
Another Mumbai-based dermatologist, Apratim Goel, explains what kind of queries they generally get. "We get varied types of beauty queries on phone and mail. Right from acne, allergies to tanning and excessive hair growth and birth marks. But most common are those related to acne, stretch marks and how to remove pigmentation and get glowing skin," he said.
"So we take the detailed history and also ask a patient to post us a close-up picture of the front and side of a face on mail. For minor skin issues we generally give consultations but do not give prescriptions without seeing them first. It is always advisable that the patient first comes for a consultation and then does the follow-up on phone or e-mail," he added.
Another advantage is that people in smaller cities can consult well-known experts in metros without having to visit them in the initial stages. "We have received queries from Patna, Lucknow, Bhopal, to name a few places. New patients generally get to learn about us through word of mouth and then they contact us either through phone or e-mail," said Indu Tolani, a dermatologist.
"People in tier-2, tier-3 cities generally cannot afford to visit us for small dermatological problems, especially for problems like hair fall and treatments like hair transplantation. Such patients can get immediate advice on phone and then once in a while they can come for treatments," she added.
So how are the experts paid in such cases? For one, there is no fixed rulebook. "Nothing is fixed. If the person is known to us, we sometimes don't charge for a telephonic consultation. In the case of a first-time caller also, we generally don't charge and if that person comes to consult us at the clinic then he or she is charged accordingly," said Tolani.
Though the technology-driven scenario makes things a lot easier, Goel points out it has its limitations. "To a large extent, technology is good. But not totally. Firstly, examining the skin personally makes a lot of difference versus doing it on mail or web. Secondly, lots of these patients require the help of lasers and other procedures, which cannot be carried out on phone," said Goel.
"So I would say there is definitely a limitation in handling skin issues on phone and mail, but, yes, in some cases like allergies and skin reactions, the instant help on phone helps a lot. At times we provide online help and then ask the client to come to us as soon as possible. This ensures the immediate help that prevents skin from getting worse," he added.
(Shilpa Raina can be contacted at shilpa.r@ians.in)
Thursday, March 3, 2011
REQUIRED PROTECTION
REQUIRED PROTECTION
Cricket fans, go easy on face paint and wear cotton!
By Shilpa Raina
New Delhi, March 3 (IANS) Do you show your craze for the Indian cricket team by making tri-colour tattoos and painting your face and hair? If yes, then beware of skin allergies and hair loss, say experts while suggesting ideal ways to dress up for a match.
"Paints, dye pigments and colours used for hair colouring and tattoo can damage both the skin and the hair, particularly of those individuals who are sensitive towards such products. The chemicals used in dye pigments can have an adverse effect on our health once they are absorbed by the skin and enter the body. Allergies caused by such paints can be quite distressing," Arvind Poswal, hair transplant surgeon, told IANS.
World Cup Cricket fever will continue till April 2.
Mumbai-based dermatologist Swati Srivastav said: "There are different kinds of paints - temporary, semi-permanent and permanent. There are colours which do not penetrate the hair shaft, then there are some semi-permanent types which penetrate your hair shaft. The main culprits in these hair colours are dye pigments which can cause allergic reactions and rashes."
"A temporary hair colour will stay only till the time you wash your hair. But most of these contain harsh chemicals that can make your hair dull and dry. Lots of people experience hair fall, hair breakage and skin allergies after colouring," she added.
And these colours also leave one's skin pleading for better care and Protection. "The toxic chemicals can cause skin peeling. It can cause allergy, rash, redness and swelling, and also increases the chances of sun damage to the skin by increasing the UV (ultraviolet rays)absorption," said Mumbai-based dermatologist Apratim Goel.
If one is sitting in a stadium, there is continuous exposure to sun rays. So experts suggest one should apply sunscreen after every two hours to combat tanning.
"A sunscreen is a must. Apply one with SPF 50+ when stepping out for matches in extreme sun. Apply it at least 20 minutes before stepping out of home. Wear breathable fabrics like cotton and wear full sleeve and long dresses that protect your forearms and knees and legs from sun exposure," said Bangalore-based dermatologist Chytra V. Anand.
"If you get skin rashes due to sun exposure, then wash the area with cold water and apply a good amount of calamine lotion to soothe it. If the rash begins to burn, itch and swell, then go to your dermatologist immediately," she added.
Protect your hair and skin by wearing large hats from direct sun exposure. "While removing the paint, first soak your skin in baby oil for two hours; after that wipe it with dry cotton; lastly, wash with a gentle cleanser and top it up with liberal moisturiser," said Goel.
Fans go to extreme lengths to prove their solidarity towards their favourite team. According to Poswal, during cricket matches the specialists receive five-six queries from those who have hair loss after hair colouring. "Be it World Cup or IPL, the cricket mania is eternal. This game definitely causes a lot of havoc to the skin and hair. We get queries of sun damage, skin tanning and flare-up of acne during cricket time," said Goel.
Though experts don't recommend the "colour" route for fans to show their love for the game, they do suggest a way out. "The best policy is to avoid such crazy stuff. However, if you must, then choosing hypo-allergic body paints is advisable. Also these colours should be applied for as little time as possible.
Getting airbrushing done is a better option than going for cheap temporary colours and tattoos," said Srivastav. "Be sensible and opt for trusted brands for hair colouring. Avoid getting wacky paints on your hair or skin, especially face painting," she added.
Poswal has more tips to share: "Do an allergy test before using any hair product. Use natural and temporary colours only. Hair colouring should be done by professionals only. Choose products that are ammonia free."
(Shilpa Raina can be contacted at shilpa.r@ians.in)
Cricket fans, go easy on face paint and wear cotton!
By Shilpa Raina
New Delhi, March 3 (IANS) Do you show your craze for the Indian cricket team by making tri-colour tattoos and painting your face and hair? If yes, then beware of skin allergies and hair loss, say experts while suggesting ideal ways to dress up for a match.
"Paints, dye pigments and colours used for hair colouring and tattoo can damage both the skin and the hair, particularly of those individuals who are sensitive towards such products. The chemicals used in dye pigments can have an adverse effect on our health once they are absorbed by the skin and enter the body. Allergies caused by such paints can be quite distressing," Arvind Poswal, hair transplant surgeon, told IANS.
World Cup Cricket fever will continue till April 2.
Mumbai-based dermatologist Swati Srivastav said: "There are different kinds of paints - temporary, semi-permanent and permanent. There are colours which do not penetrate the hair shaft, then there are some semi-permanent types which penetrate your hair shaft. The main culprits in these hair colours are dye pigments which can cause allergic reactions and rashes."
"A temporary hair colour will stay only till the time you wash your hair. But most of these contain harsh chemicals that can make your hair dull and dry. Lots of people experience hair fall, hair breakage and skin allergies after colouring," she added.
And these colours also leave one's skin pleading for better care and Protection. "The toxic chemicals can cause skin peeling. It can cause allergy, rash, redness and swelling, and also increases the chances of sun damage to the skin by increasing the UV (ultraviolet rays)absorption," said Mumbai-based dermatologist Apratim Goel.
If one is sitting in a stadium, there is continuous exposure to sun rays. So experts suggest one should apply sunscreen after every two hours to combat tanning.
"A sunscreen is a must. Apply one with SPF 50+ when stepping out for matches in extreme sun. Apply it at least 20 minutes before stepping out of home. Wear breathable fabrics like cotton and wear full sleeve and long dresses that protect your forearms and knees and legs from sun exposure," said Bangalore-based dermatologist Chytra V. Anand.
"If you get skin rashes due to sun exposure, then wash the area with cold water and apply a good amount of calamine lotion to soothe it. If the rash begins to burn, itch and swell, then go to your dermatologist immediately," she added.
Protect your hair and skin by wearing large hats from direct sun exposure. "While removing the paint, first soak your skin in baby oil for two hours; after that wipe it with dry cotton; lastly, wash with a gentle cleanser and top it up with liberal moisturiser," said Goel.
Fans go to extreme lengths to prove their solidarity towards their favourite team. According to Poswal, during cricket matches the specialists receive five-six queries from those who have hair loss after hair colouring. "Be it World Cup or IPL, the cricket mania is eternal. This game definitely causes a lot of havoc to the skin and hair. We get queries of sun damage, skin tanning and flare-up of acne during cricket time," said Goel.
Though experts don't recommend the "colour" route for fans to show their love for the game, they do suggest a way out. "The best policy is to avoid such crazy stuff. However, if you must, then choosing hypo-allergic body paints is advisable. Also these colours should be applied for as little time as possible.
Getting airbrushing done is a better option than going for cheap temporary colours and tattoos," said Srivastav. "Be sensible and opt for trusted brands for hair colouring. Avoid getting wacky paints on your hair or skin, especially face painting," she added.
Poswal has more tips to share: "Do an allergy test before using any hair product. Use natural and temporary colours only. Hair colouring should be done by professionals only. Choose products that are ammonia free."
(Shilpa Raina can be contacted at shilpa.r@ians.in)
Saturday, February 26, 2011
THE BEST OF THE WORST
THE BEST OF THE WORST
Celebrities should support Bollywood's Razzies: Cyrus Broacha
By Shilpa Raina
New Delhi, Feb 26 (IANS) Cyrus Broacha, who will be the host of next month's Golden Kela Awards that take a dig at failures in Bollywood just like Hollywood's Razzies, is hoping that Hindi film celebrities will just have a good laugh and not feel insulted.
"These awards are not meant to insult anyone. It is just a way to make it a laughter exercise, a therapy of sorts to forget about the failures and look at what went wrong with the movie and the act," Cyrus told IANS in an interview from Mumbai.
Based on Hollywood's Golden Raspberry Awards that are a spoof on the Oscars, this is the third edition of the Golden Kela Awards and Cyrus admits it is in a nascent stage. But if celebrities attend the function, it will be a wonderful way of looking at failures in a humorous way, he said.
"By giving these awards, we are not categorising you as a worst actor or director; it is just a funny way to look at things, analyse, laugh and then forget. One should accept the awards with sporty nature and we hope Bollywood actors will give us their support," he added.
The Golden Raspberry Awards were founded in 1981 and its popularity was gauged when Oscar-winning actress Sandra Bullock won the worst actress award in 2010 for "All About Steve" and she accepted it as well. Interestingly, the following night Bullock won her first academy award for "The Blind Side".
Though Bollywood also found a sport in Abhishek Bachchan, who came to the Golden Kela Awards last year and accepted the Dara Singh Award for his attempt to speak with an American accent in "Delhi 6".
"This proves that he is so secure that he accepted the award. And I am sure, once the awards gain popularity in India, it will be a big hit. There are other actors in Bollywood who have a great sense of humour and who won't mind getting a Kela award," he said.
"I think Shah Rukh Khan is also one of the actors with an excellent sense of humour and won't mind collecting one," he added.
Cyrus, who soared on the popularity charts as an MTV VJ and his show "MTV Bakra" made him a well-known face among all age groups, says there is a lot of hard work that goes into making the nomination list for the awards.
"So many movies are released in a year that it's not even funny. So many sank without a trace; so it's just not a fun-fun concept. We should compliment the people who are behind these entire awards," he said.
The founder of these awards is Jatin Varma, and one can vote for the nominations online by logging on to http://www.goldenkela.com/. The nominations are chosen by the internal jury of the award function and winner by people. The function will take place in the capital March 12 and some of the actors nominated in the worst male actor category nominees are Imraan Khan ("I Hate Luv Storys", "Break Ke Baad"), Neil Nitin Mukesh ("Lafangey Parindey"), John Abraham ("Jhoota Hi Sahi"), Hrithik Roshan ("Guzaarish"), Vivek Oberoi ("Prince") and Shah Rukh Khan ("My Name Is Khan").
And for the worst female actress category, the nominees are Sonam Kapoor ("Aisha"), Deepika Padukone ("Housefull" and "Break Ke Baad"), Aishwarya Rai ("Raavan"), Kareena Kapoor and Kajol ("We Are Family"), Priyanka Chopra ("Anjaana Anjaani") and Pakhi Tyrewala ("Jhootha Hi Sahi").
(Shilpa Raina can be contacted at shilpa.r@ians.in)
Celebrities should support Bollywood's Razzies: Cyrus Broacha
By Shilpa Raina
New Delhi, Feb 26 (IANS) Cyrus Broacha, who will be the host of next month's Golden Kela Awards that take a dig at failures in Bollywood just like Hollywood's Razzies, is hoping that Hindi film celebrities will just have a good laugh and not feel insulted.
"These awards are not meant to insult anyone. It is just a way to make it a laughter exercise, a therapy of sorts to forget about the failures and look at what went wrong with the movie and the act," Cyrus told IANS in an interview from Mumbai.
Based on Hollywood's Golden Raspberry Awards that are a spoof on the Oscars, this is the third edition of the Golden Kela Awards and Cyrus admits it is in a nascent stage. But if celebrities attend the function, it will be a wonderful way of looking at failures in a humorous way, he said.
"By giving these awards, we are not categorising you as a worst actor or director; it is just a funny way to look at things, analyse, laugh and then forget. One should accept the awards with sporty nature and we hope Bollywood actors will give us their support," he added.
The Golden Raspberry Awards were founded in 1981 and its popularity was gauged when Oscar-winning actress Sandra Bullock won the worst actress award in 2010 for "All About Steve" and she accepted it as well. Interestingly, the following night Bullock won her first academy award for "The Blind Side".
Though Bollywood also found a sport in Abhishek Bachchan, who came to the Golden Kela Awards last year and accepted the Dara Singh Award for his attempt to speak with an American accent in "Delhi 6".
"This proves that he is so secure that he accepted the award. And I am sure, once the awards gain popularity in India, it will be a big hit. There are other actors in Bollywood who have a great sense of humour and who won't mind getting a Kela award," he said.
"I think Shah Rukh Khan is also one of the actors with an excellent sense of humour and won't mind collecting one," he added.
Cyrus, who soared on the popularity charts as an MTV VJ and his show "MTV Bakra" made him a well-known face among all age groups, says there is a lot of hard work that goes into making the nomination list for the awards.
"So many movies are released in a year that it's not even funny. So many sank without a trace; so it's just not a fun-fun concept. We should compliment the people who are behind these entire awards," he said.
The founder of these awards is Jatin Varma, and one can vote for the nominations online by logging on to http://www.goldenkela.com/. The nominations are chosen by the internal jury of the award function and winner by people. The function will take place in the capital March 12 and some of the actors nominated in the worst male actor category nominees are Imraan Khan ("I Hate Luv Storys", "Break Ke Baad"), Neil Nitin Mukesh ("Lafangey Parindey"), John Abraham ("Jhoota Hi Sahi"), Hrithik Roshan ("Guzaarish"), Vivek Oberoi ("Prince") and Shah Rukh Khan ("My Name Is Khan").
And for the worst female actress category, the nominees are Sonam Kapoor ("Aisha"), Deepika Padukone ("Housefull" and "Break Ke Baad"), Aishwarya Rai ("Raavan"), Kareena Kapoor and Kajol ("We Are Family"), Priyanka Chopra ("Anjaana Anjaani") and Pakhi Tyrewala ("Jhootha Hi Sahi").
(Shilpa Raina can be contacted at shilpa.r@ians.in)
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
FOR MODERN WOMEN
FOR MODERN WOMEN
My Paco Rabanne designs to be easily accessible: Manish Arora
(Interview)
By Shilpa Raina
New Delhi, Feb 22 (IANS) Indian designer Manish Arora has been roped in as creative-artistic director for Spanish brand Paco Rabanne, which is looking for a comeback with women's wear. Based mostly in Paris, he says his creations won't be time-bound and will be easily accessible to the modern woman.
Arora will showcase his first collection with the fashion house during the Paris Fashion Week in October 2011, but refuses to reveal whether there will be an Indian influence.
"I cannot comment on this. Currently I'm busy working on the autumn-winter 2011-2012 collection for Manish Arora, Paris," Arora told IANS.
"Who knows what I will be inspired by when I begin work on the line for Paco Rabanne. But one thing is sure that the clothes will be easily accessible to modern woman. The designs will not be time-bound," he added.
The New Delhi-based designer has been in the business since 1997 and in more than a decade he has made a name in the Indian fashion circuit as well as abroad.
An alumnus of the National Institute of Fashion Technology, Delhi, he launched his label "Manish Arora" in 1997 and came up in 2001 with the second label "Fish Fry". Today, his label is available in 84 stores worldwide.
Interestingly, Paco Rabanne's design sensibilities are similar to Arora's creative innovations. The Spanish designer had launched his label in 1966 and is known for the dresses made of metal discs. He retired in 2000 and the fashion house was shut in 2006.
Now when the European brand is looking at making a comeback in the ready-to-wear industry, Arora's imagination will help them in revamping the brand.
"Unknowingly, Paco Rabanne and my ideologies have a lot of similarity. We've both worked with unconventional materials and are known for taking things to the next level. We've had similar inspirations, used similar techniques and have worked with architectural structures," he said.
"The line for the label will be a ready-to-wear range. While designing for Paco Rabanne, I will have to keep the brand history, ideology and image in mind. The clothes will have my signature touch but will be different from what I create for my label," he added.
Taking this opportunity as a challenge, Arora said: "New ventures are always challenging. I am glad that I have an opportunity to be part of this (Paco Rabanne). It is a very big responsibility, at the same time very exciting. I will be putting in my best and hope I do justice to my position in the house."
Arora's love for Paris is no secret as he spends the maximum time there, thus missing the fashion weeks in India.
"I have not showcased at fashion weeks in India since 2009. Yes, I have done sponsor shows...But as far as the business is considered, my main clientele is based in Europe and the Middle East; so showcasing in Paris is more favourable to my label," he said.
"I have another range that is focussed only on the Indian market - Indian by Manish Arora. I have a stall at Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week each season," he said.
Despite this, the designer says India will always be close to him. "I have one foot in India and the other in France. However, there are no preferences - each place has its own charm. But India will always be home."
The maverick designer is not for churning out a creative blend of designs in psychedelic colours that are innovative, stylish and different and not everyone's cup of tea. But he believes a confident woman can do justice to his designs.
"I don't think my designs are out of the box... Yes, they are different and innovative, but it is still fashion. My clients are not bound by age or location. The women who wear my clothes are confident individuals - she is a modern woman with a unique perspective towards everything in life," said the designer who also has a website: http://www.manisharora.ws/manish_arora/.
Arora's creativity is not restricted to the ramp - he tied up with a variety of brands like cosmetic giant MAC, sports brand Reebok for Fish Fry funky shoes, Swarovski for jewellery and Nivea to design a limited edition of jars.
"There are many designers that have collaborated with firms - Karl Lagerfeld with Coca-Cola, Lavin with H&M, Vivienne Westwood with Chivas, Alexander Mc Queen with Samsonite - to name a few. Collaborations are the best way to introduce your brand to new markets - it has the widest outreach," he said.
(Shilpa Raina can be contacted at shilpa.r@ians.in)
My Paco Rabanne designs to be easily accessible: Manish Arora
(Interview)
By Shilpa Raina
New Delhi, Feb 22 (IANS) Indian designer Manish Arora has been roped in as creative-artistic director for Spanish brand Paco Rabanne, which is looking for a comeback with women's wear. Based mostly in Paris, he says his creations won't be time-bound and will be easily accessible to the modern woman.
Arora will showcase his first collection with the fashion house during the Paris Fashion Week in October 2011, but refuses to reveal whether there will be an Indian influence.
"I cannot comment on this. Currently I'm busy working on the autumn-winter 2011-2012 collection for Manish Arora, Paris," Arora told IANS.
"Who knows what I will be inspired by when I begin work on the line for Paco Rabanne. But one thing is sure that the clothes will be easily accessible to modern woman. The designs will not be time-bound," he added.
The New Delhi-based designer has been in the business since 1997 and in more than a decade he has made a name in the Indian fashion circuit as well as abroad.
An alumnus of the National Institute of Fashion Technology, Delhi, he launched his label "Manish Arora" in 1997 and came up in 2001 with the second label "Fish Fry". Today, his label is available in 84 stores worldwide.
Interestingly, Paco Rabanne's design sensibilities are similar to Arora's creative innovations. The Spanish designer had launched his label in 1966 and is known for the dresses made of metal discs. He retired in 2000 and the fashion house was shut in 2006.
Now when the European brand is looking at making a comeback in the ready-to-wear industry, Arora's imagination will help them in revamping the brand.
"Unknowingly, Paco Rabanne and my ideologies have a lot of similarity. We've both worked with unconventional materials and are known for taking things to the next level. We've had similar inspirations, used similar techniques and have worked with architectural structures," he said.
"The line for the label will be a ready-to-wear range. While designing for Paco Rabanne, I will have to keep the brand history, ideology and image in mind. The clothes will have my signature touch but will be different from what I create for my label," he added.
Taking this opportunity as a challenge, Arora said: "New ventures are always challenging. I am glad that I have an opportunity to be part of this (Paco Rabanne). It is a very big responsibility, at the same time very exciting. I will be putting in my best and hope I do justice to my position in the house."
Arora's love for Paris is no secret as he spends the maximum time there, thus missing the fashion weeks in India.
"I have not showcased at fashion weeks in India since 2009. Yes, I have done sponsor shows...But as far as the business is considered, my main clientele is based in Europe and the Middle East; so showcasing in Paris is more favourable to my label," he said.
"I have another range that is focussed only on the Indian market - Indian by Manish Arora. I have a stall at Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week each season," he said.
Despite this, the designer says India will always be close to him. "I have one foot in India and the other in France. However, there are no preferences - each place has its own charm. But India will always be home."
The maverick designer is not for churning out a creative blend of designs in psychedelic colours that are innovative, stylish and different and not everyone's cup of tea. But he believes a confident woman can do justice to his designs.
"I don't think my designs are out of the box... Yes, they are different and innovative, but it is still fashion. My clients are not bound by age or location. The women who wear my clothes are confident individuals - she is a modern woman with a unique perspective towards everything in life," said the designer who also has a website: http://www.manisharora.ws/manish_arora/.
Arora's creativity is not restricted to the ramp - he tied up with a variety of brands like cosmetic giant MAC, sports brand Reebok for Fish Fry funky shoes, Swarovski for jewellery and Nivea to design a limited edition of jars.
"There are many designers that have collaborated with firms - Karl Lagerfeld with Coca-Cola, Lavin with H&M, Vivienne Westwood with Chivas, Alexander Mc Queen with Samsonite - to name a few. Collaborations are the best way to introduce your brand to new markets - it has the widest outreach," he said.
(Shilpa Raina can be contacted at shilpa.r@ians.in)
Saturday, February 19, 2011
CHIPPING IN WITH QUALITY
CHIPPING IN WITH QUALITY
Nagarjuna to open film school, but no Bollywood please
By Shilpa Raina
New Delhi, Feb 19 (IANS) He has over two decades in the film industry and more than 70 movies to his credit, but southern superstar Nagarjuna is in no mood to sit on his laurels. He is busy doing experimental cinema, plans to open a film institute down south and doesn't want to waste time by accepting Bollywood offers.
"I had a nice roller-coaster ride in the industry. I have learnt many lessons. There were many ups and downs and, thankfully, I survived them all. And every experience has been very enriching and satisfactory," Nagarjuna told IANS in an interview over phone from Hyderabad.
The Chennai-born 51-year-old actor is a qualified engineer and he went to the University of Michigan to do his bachelors, but the acting bug bit him so hard that he took a plunge into showbiz. And why not when he had an inspiration at home - his father Nageswara Rao is an actor and a producer. So Nagarjuna's acting journey began with Madhusudan Rao's 1986 movie "Vikram" and he not only became a big name in the south but also did a few Bollywood projects. He has played all kinds of roles - from emotional and romantic to action and comic.
He has even featured in devotional Telugu film "Annamayya", which fetched him the Nandi Award for the best actor in 1997. But the success brought some problems as, Nagarjuna says, after the film audiences refused to accept him in any other role for four-five years.
"My films didn't do well after the movie. I just couldn't get away from the image," said the star who even now wants to play a mythological character from the Mahabharata and the Ramayana. "We grow up listening to stories from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. So I would like to portray any character from any chapter of these epics," he said.
He also wants to do "experimental cinema". "I want to do something that can satiate my hunger for breaking the stereotype. Unlike Bollywood, Tollywood (Telugu film industry) is not experimenting with cinema. So the change has to start from somewhere; let me be the first one. Audience is same everywhere and so we have to try to break free from the regular masala movies," he said.
Calling his upcoming venture "Gaganam" experimental, Nagarjuna says it is very different from what he has done so far and hopes to bring change in southern cinema with the film. In Bollywood, one remembers Nagarjuna for "Criminal" and his last Hindi movie was "LOC Kargil" and he said laughingly: " 'LOC' was enough for me. I don't want to waste time."
"I have been offered scripts, but getting out of Hyderabad, shooting somewhere else, it doesn't work for me; hence there are constant clashes. I have things happening here, all under control, so I am comfortable here," he added.
The actor-producer doesn't rule out the possibility of producing a Bollywood film if he gets the right package. But direction is a no-no for him.
Nagarjuna has been dabbling in different business for the past five-six years. He is closely associated with Telugu TV channel Maa TV - he is on its board of directors. Apart from this, his restaurant N-grill is a popular dinning place in the plush Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, and he has plans to take it to other cities like Delhi and Bangalore as well.
The most ambitious project that Nagarjuna is currently focussing on is Annapurna Studios Pvt Ltd (ASPL) in Jubilee Hills that will train technicians and budding actors. "Unfortunately, down south we don't have a film school like you have in Mumbai. So the gap has to be filled and I am looking more at the quality aspect; hence this project has come up. After all these years in the industry, I have seen there is no proper channel or guidance here if one wants to make a career in this line," he said.
"So a person learns on the job. But this is not the right way. Hence it will be on the lines of the American film institute, New York University, and the University of Southern California. The objective of this institute is to upgrade talent for students to compete globally," he added.
According to him, this is a way of giving back to the industry that has made him what he is today and see it scale great heights in future.
(Shilpa Raina can be contacted at shilpa.r@ians.in)
Nagarjuna to open film school, but no Bollywood please
By Shilpa Raina
New Delhi, Feb 19 (IANS) He has over two decades in the film industry and more than 70 movies to his credit, but southern superstar Nagarjuna is in no mood to sit on his laurels. He is busy doing experimental cinema, plans to open a film institute down south and doesn't want to waste time by accepting Bollywood offers.
"I had a nice roller-coaster ride in the industry. I have learnt many lessons. There were many ups and downs and, thankfully, I survived them all. And every experience has been very enriching and satisfactory," Nagarjuna told IANS in an interview over phone from Hyderabad.
The Chennai-born 51-year-old actor is a qualified engineer and he went to the University of Michigan to do his bachelors, but the acting bug bit him so hard that he took a plunge into showbiz. And why not when he had an inspiration at home - his father Nageswara Rao is an actor and a producer. So Nagarjuna's acting journey began with Madhusudan Rao's 1986 movie "Vikram" and he not only became a big name in the south but also did a few Bollywood projects. He has played all kinds of roles - from emotional and romantic to action and comic.
He has even featured in devotional Telugu film "Annamayya", which fetched him the Nandi Award for the best actor in 1997. But the success brought some problems as, Nagarjuna says, after the film audiences refused to accept him in any other role for four-five years.
"My films didn't do well after the movie. I just couldn't get away from the image," said the star who even now wants to play a mythological character from the Mahabharata and the Ramayana. "We grow up listening to stories from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. So I would like to portray any character from any chapter of these epics," he said.
He also wants to do "experimental cinema". "I want to do something that can satiate my hunger for breaking the stereotype. Unlike Bollywood, Tollywood (Telugu film industry) is not experimenting with cinema. So the change has to start from somewhere; let me be the first one. Audience is same everywhere and so we have to try to break free from the regular masala movies," he said.
Calling his upcoming venture "Gaganam" experimental, Nagarjuna says it is very different from what he has done so far and hopes to bring change in southern cinema with the film. In Bollywood, one remembers Nagarjuna for "Criminal" and his last Hindi movie was "LOC Kargil" and he said laughingly: " 'LOC' was enough for me. I don't want to waste time."
"I have been offered scripts, but getting out of Hyderabad, shooting somewhere else, it doesn't work for me; hence there are constant clashes. I have things happening here, all under control, so I am comfortable here," he added.
The actor-producer doesn't rule out the possibility of producing a Bollywood film if he gets the right package. But direction is a no-no for him.
Nagarjuna has been dabbling in different business for the past five-six years. He is closely associated with Telugu TV channel Maa TV - he is on its board of directors. Apart from this, his restaurant N-grill is a popular dinning place in the plush Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, and he has plans to take it to other cities like Delhi and Bangalore as well.
The most ambitious project that Nagarjuna is currently focussing on is Annapurna Studios Pvt Ltd (ASPL) in Jubilee Hills that will train technicians and budding actors. "Unfortunately, down south we don't have a film school like you have in Mumbai. So the gap has to be filled and I am looking more at the quality aspect; hence this project has come up. After all these years in the industry, I have seen there is no proper channel or guidance here if one wants to make a career in this line," he said.
"So a person learns on the job. But this is not the right way. Hence it will be on the lines of the American film institute, New York University, and the University of Southern California. The objective of this institute is to upgrade talent for students to compete globally," he added.
According to him, this is a way of giving back to the industry that has made him what he is today and see it scale great heights in future.
(Shilpa Raina can be contacted at shilpa.r@ians.in)
GAME FOR DELICACIES?
GAME FOR DELICACIES?
Time to eat Bhajjis doosra and cheese no balls
(Eating Out With IANS)
By Shilpa Raina
New Delhi, Feb 19 (IANS) Now dig into Bhajjis doosra murg or Sachin's only choice while watching Harbhajan Singh and Sachin Tendulkar in action! For, eateries in and around Delhi have set the table for a lethal combination of food, beverage and cricket as the World Cup begins Saturday.
Restaurant owners want fans to catch their heroes in action on LCD screens while munching on special snacks and sipping drinks in extended Happy Hours. Blues Cafe and Bar in Connaught Place has a special menu with interesting names to grab attention - "Bhajji ki pasand", "Sachin's only choice", "Kevin Peterson (mumma's recommendation)". If that is not enough, Nostradamus at Fortune Select Excalibur in Gurgaon has dedicated 11 snacks to Indian players.
Restaurant owners feel the World Cup buzz is picking up and footfalls will go up during matches that will be on till April 2. "Considering the cricket craze in India, we're expecting our sales to go up by 30-40 percent. It's the time when people like getting together with friends and family and enjoy a match together," said Gaurav Suri, owner of Souza Lobo, a Goan and Portuguese restaurant in Greater Kailash 2. "And if teamed with interesting offers of food and alcohol, it gives people just the reason to visit a bar or a restaurant and watch the match," he added.
To keep the spirit of the game alive, restaurants are offering specially discounted hours during a match - say from the first ball to the last. Discount is not only on food but on spirits as well. Golfworx in Ambience Mall, Gurgaon, has extended Happy Hours during the match and one can buy one drink and get one free. Apart from this, on premium liquor brands, one gets a two plus one offer. Also, to give a king-size experience, they have put up 13 huge screens, and six simulators have already been converted into LCD screens. The meal for two at Golfworx will be under Rs.2,000.
At the Ice Lounge in MGF Metropolitan Mall, Saket, viewing cricket match can get merrier if you are a beer fan. Apart from screening all matches, they are offering a bucket of beer at Rs.399. One can also pick delicious Bhajjis doosra murg, sumptuous cheese no balls and skippers chicken delight with the drink.
And if you are the one who is a big time foodie and is vouching on all 14 participating nations during the 43-day-long cricket festival, then visit Zodiac in Gurgaon. The restaurant will be serving a wide range of cuisines from the 14 participating countries and will have an exciting live kitchen option too. So, you can dig your tongue into three varieties of pastas with an array of sauces and they will cook grilled fish, chicken, lamb and vegetables in front of you.
India, Australia, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, New Zealand, The Netherlands, Ireland, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Canada, South Africa, England, West Indies and Bangladesh are participating in the World Cup. What if the Indian team wins a match? You will get a special 15 percent discount at 1440 - the 24 -hour lounge and cafe in Hotel Vikram in Lajpat Nagar.
And during the World Cup, don't be surprised if cricket stumps out music. A few restaurant owners are prepared to re-schedule their weekend musical programmes to accommodate matches if India is playing. "We will change all our gigs and focus on showing matches as people will prefer to watch matches than listen to music," Royal China's director Aashita Relan told IANS.
So what are you waiting for? Text for friends, make a plan and enjoy matches with a glass of beer.
(Shilpa Raina can be contacted at shilpa.r@ians.in)
Time to eat Bhajjis doosra and cheese no balls
(Eating Out With IANS)
By Shilpa Raina
New Delhi, Feb 19 (IANS) Now dig into Bhajjis doosra murg or Sachin's only choice while watching Harbhajan Singh and Sachin Tendulkar in action! For, eateries in and around Delhi have set the table for a lethal combination of food, beverage and cricket as the World Cup begins Saturday.
Restaurant owners want fans to catch their heroes in action on LCD screens while munching on special snacks and sipping drinks in extended Happy Hours. Blues Cafe and Bar in Connaught Place has a special menu with interesting names to grab attention - "Bhajji ki pasand", "Sachin's only choice", "Kevin Peterson (mumma's recommendation)". If that is not enough, Nostradamus at Fortune Select Excalibur in Gurgaon has dedicated 11 snacks to Indian players.
Restaurant owners feel the World Cup buzz is picking up and footfalls will go up during matches that will be on till April 2. "Considering the cricket craze in India, we're expecting our sales to go up by 30-40 percent. It's the time when people like getting together with friends and family and enjoy a match together," said Gaurav Suri, owner of Souza Lobo, a Goan and Portuguese restaurant in Greater Kailash 2. "And if teamed with interesting offers of food and alcohol, it gives people just the reason to visit a bar or a restaurant and watch the match," he added.
To keep the spirit of the game alive, restaurants are offering specially discounted hours during a match - say from the first ball to the last. Discount is not only on food but on spirits as well. Golfworx in Ambience Mall, Gurgaon, has extended Happy Hours during the match and one can buy one drink and get one free. Apart from this, on premium liquor brands, one gets a two plus one offer. Also, to give a king-size experience, they have put up 13 huge screens, and six simulators have already been converted into LCD screens. The meal for two at Golfworx will be under Rs.2,000.
At the Ice Lounge in MGF Metropolitan Mall, Saket, viewing cricket match can get merrier if you are a beer fan. Apart from screening all matches, they are offering a bucket of beer at Rs.399. One can also pick delicious Bhajjis doosra murg, sumptuous cheese no balls and skippers chicken delight with the drink.
And if you are the one who is a big time foodie and is vouching on all 14 participating nations during the 43-day-long cricket festival, then visit Zodiac in Gurgaon. The restaurant will be serving a wide range of cuisines from the 14 participating countries and will have an exciting live kitchen option too. So, you can dig your tongue into three varieties of pastas with an array of sauces and they will cook grilled fish, chicken, lamb and vegetables in front of you.
India, Australia, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, New Zealand, The Netherlands, Ireland, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Canada, South Africa, England, West Indies and Bangladesh are participating in the World Cup. What if the Indian team wins a match? You will get a special 15 percent discount at 1440 - the 24 -hour lounge and cafe in Hotel Vikram in Lajpat Nagar.
And during the World Cup, don't be surprised if cricket stumps out music. A few restaurant owners are prepared to re-schedule their weekend musical programmes to accommodate matches if India is playing. "We will change all our gigs and focus on showing matches as people will prefer to watch matches than listen to music," Royal China's director Aashita Relan told IANS.
So what are you waiting for? Text for friends, make a plan and enjoy matches with a glass of beer.
(Shilpa Raina can be contacted at shilpa.r@ians.in)
Thursday, February 10, 2011
PEN, PAPER AND YOUR HEART
PEN, PAPER AND YOUR HEART
Rediscover the handwritten love letter this V-Day
By Shilpa Raina
New Delhi, Feb 10 (IANS) When was the last time you penned a sweet love letter? In the age of emoticons and e-mails, the personal touch has died down. So, be different this Valentine's Day - dump the keyboard and use the pen and paper.
Delhi-based marriage and relationship expert Kamal Khurana says an e-mail or SMS can never emote the feelings that a handwritten love note or letter can on the special day Feb 14.
"The handwriting in a letter always gives a personal touch. One can gauge various emotions through the handwriting. So a letter will be a tangible object that can be read again and again. And if you add a fragrance or a dried rose flower between the sheets, it makes a letter special," Khurana from Purple Alley relationship institute, a counselling centre, told IANS.
A letter takes time to reach and Khurana feels the long wait builds up the right excitement. "Waiting for it impatiently and then reading a letter has its own charm, whereas an e-mail is quick, instant, and then you have artificial emotional icons to express yourself as well," he said.
Pawan Gadai, CEO of Ferns and Petals, said: "We have a facility for handwritten notes to be attached with flowers. Hundred percent bouquets have short notes attached to them. Some write it themselves, some e-mail it in case of an online booking, and there are some who dictate it on the phone.
"But, yes, long love notes are a rarity. Only five percent people believe in writing proper notes that is sent with the flowers," said Gadai.
A recent Hotmail survey conducted on MSN India revealed that almost 54 percent Indians rely on e-mails to keep their romance alive in the new era of "Up in the air" lifestyles. In fact, close to 50 percent of the respondents said they exchange saucy e-mails to keep their relationship steamy whereas 20 percent frequently exchange romantic or flirtatious e-mails. As many as 33 percent of the respondents exchange romantic or saucy images to fuel passions. Most surprisingly, 30 percent respondents revealed they have told someone they love them for the
first time through an e-mail and 57 percent have even proposed via the virtual route!
For 19-year-old Prashant Sood, letters are an "old" way of expressing love in an age of instant noodles and speed-dating. "Who has the time? It's very funny, even to imagine, first writing a letter, then going to a post office - those were the old days. We (new generation) are very quick with actions. And who has the patience to wait for a letter?" said Sood. "Imagine writing a letter in SMS lingo? Even our spellings are corrected by the spell-check, so the thought of writing a letter is very old school to me," he added.
Vijay Batra, a relationship expert, agrees that handwritten notes have a special space, but says they are not the right medium for those into a long distance relationship.
"See it entirely depends on a relationship. How genuine you are? Cheating happens everywhere and people these days blame technology for that," said Batra.
But for some chivalry is still important and they would prefer flowers with handwritten love notes, which have a shelf life. For 24-year-old Kriti Dhingra, the online medium can be the most unromantic way of expressing love.
"Online messages, e-mails and posts can be most unromantic. I would love it if my guy writes a letter to me, or sends me small teaser notes...it's cute and a tangible remembrance that you can cherish for life. The charm of an online post dies down too soon," she said.
"If I receive a handwritten letter then that will mean the person has taken time out to write to me," added Dhingra.
Journalist Manu Sharma is among those youngsters who still believes in the old world way of expressing love. "I always write notes for my boyfriend, be it Valentine's Day or his birthday. He also likes receiving such notes from me and enjoys reading them. He loves going back to the notes again and again," said 23-year-old Manu.
(Shilpa Raina can be contacted at shilpa.r@ians.in)
Rediscover the handwritten love letter this V-Day
By Shilpa Raina
New Delhi, Feb 10 (IANS) When was the last time you penned a sweet love letter? In the age of emoticons and e-mails, the personal touch has died down. So, be different this Valentine's Day - dump the keyboard and use the pen and paper.
Delhi-based marriage and relationship expert Kamal Khurana says an e-mail or SMS can never emote the feelings that a handwritten love note or letter can on the special day Feb 14.
"The handwriting in a letter always gives a personal touch. One can gauge various emotions through the handwriting. So a letter will be a tangible object that can be read again and again. And if you add a fragrance or a dried rose flower between the sheets, it makes a letter special," Khurana from Purple Alley relationship institute, a counselling centre, told IANS.
A letter takes time to reach and Khurana feels the long wait builds up the right excitement. "Waiting for it impatiently and then reading a letter has its own charm, whereas an e-mail is quick, instant, and then you have artificial emotional icons to express yourself as well," he said.
Pawan Gadai, CEO of Ferns and Petals, said: "We have a facility for handwritten notes to be attached with flowers. Hundred percent bouquets have short notes attached to them. Some write it themselves, some e-mail it in case of an online booking, and there are some who dictate it on the phone.
"But, yes, long love notes are a rarity. Only five percent people believe in writing proper notes that is sent with the flowers," said Gadai.
A recent Hotmail survey conducted on MSN India revealed that almost 54 percent Indians rely on e-mails to keep their romance alive in the new era of "Up in the air" lifestyles. In fact, close to 50 percent of the respondents said they exchange saucy e-mails to keep their relationship steamy whereas 20 percent frequently exchange romantic or flirtatious e-mails. As many as 33 percent of the respondents exchange romantic or saucy images to fuel passions. Most surprisingly, 30 percent respondents revealed they have told someone they love them for the
first time through an e-mail and 57 percent have even proposed via the virtual route!
For 19-year-old Prashant Sood, letters are an "old" way of expressing love in an age of instant noodles and speed-dating. "Who has the time? It's very funny, even to imagine, first writing a letter, then going to a post office - those were the old days. We (new generation) are very quick with actions. And who has the patience to wait for a letter?" said Sood. "Imagine writing a letter in SMS lingo? Even our spellings are corrected by the spell-check, so the thought of writing a letter is very old school to me," he added.
Vijay Batra, a relationship expert, agrees that handwritten notes have a special space, but says they are not the right medium for those into a long distance relationship.
"See it entirely depends on a relationship. How genuine you are? Cheating happens everywhere and people these days blame technology for that," said Batra.
But for some chivalry is still important and they would prefer flowers with handwritten love notes, which have a shelf life. For 24-year-old Kriti Dhingra, the online medium can be the most unromantic way of expressing love.
"Online messages, e-mails and posts can be most unromantic. I would love it if my guy writes a letter to me, or sends me small teaser notes...it's cute and a tangible remembrance that you can cherish for life. The charm of an online post dies down too soon," she said.
"If I receive a handwritten letter then that will mean the person has taken time out to write to me," added Dhingra.
Journalist Manu Sharma is among those youngsters who still believes in the old world way of expressing love. "I always write notes for my boyfriend, be it Valentine's Day or his birthday. He also likes receiving such notes from me and enjoys reading them. He loves going back to the notes again and again," said 23-year-old Manu.
(Shilpa Raina can be contacted at shilpa.r@ians.in)
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
THEY ARE NETWALKING
THEY ARE NETWALKING
Eyeing youth, shoe brands put e-foot forward
By Shilpa Raina
New Delhi, Feb 8 (IANS) What have footwear brands got to do with gaming and social networking sites? Here's the answer: these are the platforms most visited by youth, prompting top shoe companies to put their 'e-foot' forward and target this section.
While Bata launched its online shopping portal last year, Woodland is the latest to join the bandwagon and is also developing new gaming applications.
According to Manoj Chandra, Bata's vice president-marketing and customer service, the online portal was launched to deal with "out of stock" problem. "The response for our online portal is very good. One can easily order for his/her shoe style in any size and the advantage is that it never goes out of stock, so this is the plus point," Chandra told IANS.
That's not surprising in a scenario where young people are enthusiastic about using technology to do new things and most are addicted to social networking sites.
According to a report last year, social networking site Facebook crossed the 12-million user base in India. Globally, the networking site claims to have 500 million active users every day. Shoe-brand and apparel maker Woodland is using the increasing popularity of the social media to promote their brand online and are targeting people in the age group of 18-28 years.
"In 2009, we started making our presence in the social media via Twitter and Facebook and very soon we are going to be the first in India to start using Foursquare technology - it's a virtual game in which participants earn badges for checking in at various locations. Those that check in most earn points and win exclusive discounts," Amol Dhillon, Woodland's vice president of strategy and planning, told IANS.
And for the online portal, they have plans to stock up limited edition products.
"We will be having a lot of limited edition products, the ones that we think are commercially not viable for mass production, on sale. So those will be exclusive for online buyers," said Dhillon. "What is happening in the West is that people are trying to reduce the carbon footprint by shopping from online stores, we want to initiate that," he added.
Woodland has around 300 plus stores in the country whereas Bata has introduced 220 new stores since 2006 and sells through over 1,200 retail stores. Chandra is now looking at opening large format stores all over India to pamper consumers by offering them an array of options.
"We are now targeting the 'big store' format. The idea is to offer everything under one roof because this helps in connecting well with the consumer as they don't have to jump from one store to another to buy your product. You are making their life easy," he said.
Calling social media platforms transparent, vibrant, active and dynamic, Dhillon says the response from consumers is helping the brand get "quicker" and "honest" reactions.
According to Dhillon, the online medium is where young consumers spend most of their time, hence a brand has to be socially-active to reap maximum benefits from it. "The social media is cost effective and the reaction from the target group is instant and spontaneous. An average target consumer is online for at least one hour a day, hence we had a lot many online campaigns to attract their attention," he said. "We are not saying no to the traditional medium, but are trying to balance different modes of communication," he added.
But if one assumes advertising on these social mediums is pocket friendly, then Dhillon corrects them saying: "It's not that we don't spend at all, we do. Like these days we are developing a gaming application on the lines of Farmville (an engaging gaming application) where a person would be finding route through a trail and locate a Woodland shoe. This way we are connecting brand and entertaining our consumers as well."
(Shilpa Raina can be contacted at shilpa.r@ians.in)
Eyeing youth, shoe brands put e-foot forward
By Shilpa Raina
New Delhi, Feb 8 (IANS) What have footwear brands got to do with gaming and social networking sites? Here's the answer: these are the platforms most visited by youth, prompting top shoe companies to put their 'e-foot' forward and target this section.
While Bata launched its online shopping portal last year, Woodland is the latest to join the bandwagon and is also developing new gaming applications.
According to Manoj Chandra, Bata's vice president-marketing and customer service, the online portal was launched to deal with "out of stock" problem. "The response for our online portal is very good. One can easily order for his/her shoe style in any size and the advantage is that it never goes out of stock, so this is the plus point," Chandra told IANS.
That's not surprising in a scenario where young people are enthusiastic about using technology to do new things and most are addicted to social networking sites.
According to a report last year, social networking site Facebook crossed the 12-million user base in India. Globally, the networking site claims to have 500 million active users every day. Shoe-brand and apparel maker Woodland is using the increasing popularity of the social media to promote their brand online and are targeting people in the age group of 18-28 years.
"In 2009, we started making our presence in the social media via Twitter and Facebook and very soon we are going to be the first in India to start using Foursquare technology - it's a virtual game in which participants earn badges for checking in at various locations. Those that check in most earn points and win exclusive discounts," Amol Dhillon, Woodland's vice president of strategy and planning, told IANS.
And for the online portal, they have plans to stock up limited edition products.
"We will be having a lot of limited edition products, the ones that we think are commercially not viable for mass production, on sale. So those will be exclusive for online buyers," said Dhillon. "What is happening in the West is that people are trying to reduce the carbon footprint by shopping from online stores, we want to initiate that," he added.
Woodland has around 300 plus stores in the country whereas Bata has introduced 220 new stores since 2006 and sells through over 1,200 retail stores. Chandra is now looking at opening large format stores all over India to pamper consumers by offering them an array of options.
"We are now targeting the 'big store' format. The idea is to offer everything under one roof because this helps in connecting well with the consumer as they don't have to jump from one store to another to buy your product. You are making their life easy," he said.
Calling social media platforms transparent, vibrant, active and dynamic, Dhillon says the response from consumers is helping the brand get "quicker" and "honest" reactions.
According to Dhillon, the online medium is where young consumers spend most of their time, hence a brand has to be socially-active to reap maximum benefits from it. "The social media is cost effective and the reaction from the target group is instant and spontaneous. An average target consumer is online for at least one hour a day, hence we had a lot many online campaigns to attract their attention," he said. "We are not saying no to the traditional medium, but are trying to balance different modes of communication," he added.
But if one assumes advertising on these social mediums is pocket friendly, then Dhillon corrects them saying: "It's not that we don't spend at all, we do. Like these days we are developing a gaming application on the lines of Farmville (an engaging gaming application) where a person would be finding route through a trail and locate a Woodland shoe. This way we are connecting brand and entertaining our consumers as well."
(Shilpa Raina can be contacted at shilpa.r@ians.in)
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
ARTISTIC TOUCH
ARTISTIC TOUCH
Six pack abs with surgery? It's illusionary but real!
By Shilpa Raina
New Delhi, Feb 1 (IANS) Phew! Still huffing and puffing away in a gym to get six pack abs like your favourite actors Hrithik Roshan and Shah Rukh Khan? Experts say you can now get illusionary abs - with artistic cosmetic surgery.
Introduced in the country about three years ago, Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance (VASER) is a revolution of sorts as it's not only used for body contouring but also helps in getting illusionary abs.
Rajesh Khurana, president of Timpac Healthcare, says the illusion can be created by an artistic cosmetic surgeon. "In this, the hands and designing aspect is very important. First, the fat is removed from the body in longitudinal lines by creating humps in such a way that it creates an illusion," Khurana told IANS.
Timpac Healthcare is known for offering clinical obesity management, cosmetology, medical aesthetics, wellness, medi-spas and anti-aging treatments.
"This is done by etching the skin and removing superficial fat by segregating it from surrounding tissue through liposuction," said senior plastic surgeon Ajay Kashyap. "VASER uses third generation internal ultrasound technology that artfully, selectively and permanently contours the body into a more proportioned, smoother shape without compromising on comfort and safety."
The procedure can't be performed by every plastic surgeon because it requires special training to master the art. VASER, if explained in a more technical way, is an ultrasound-assisted liposuction system where fatty tissues are extracted from the body by using sound waves and they emulsify targeted fat cells.
The sound energy gets transmitted through small probes. These sound waves enter the holes and vibrate rapidly to produce ultrasound energy. This energy that penetrates inside the body breaks the cellular membrane and discharges the lipid content.
In India, there are only 10 machines available for the procedure because both the equipment and the process, which is still evolving, are expensive, says Khurana.
"Not many Indians opt for this procedure as it is very expensive and not every surgeon can perform it. A lot many people are not aware of this technology and a lot many can't afford it," he said.
In fact, when Shah Rukh made headlines for his six pack abs for "Om Shanti Om", his fans worshipped his perfection while fitness experts wondered.
Khurana is not sure, but he believes the superstar might have taken the help of technology for a quick-fix.
Noida-based fitness expert Aashu agrees. "It takes discipline, perfection and a lot of hard work to get six pack abs. You don't have to sacrifice food, but a lot many things to maintain them. A person can't achieve it in a few months, it takes time and patience," he said.
The cost for this procedure can be anywhere between Rs.100,000 and Rs.200,000 and recovery takes about a week.
Anup Dhir, senior cosmetic surgeon at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, said there is less blood loss and quick recovery, but "the disadvantage is if the cuts are not done in the right manner, the entire idea will flop".
Also, Kashyap says, one needs to work out to maintain those abs. A cardio routine for half an hour is essential. Brisk walking for 20 minutes helps and there should be some diet control as well in the initial weeks.
There are not too many takers for this right now. "It is around one to two enquiries per month, but operations take place once in three months because it's expensive," said Dhir.
(Shilpa Raina can be contacted at shilpa.r@ians.in)
Six pack abs with surgery? It's illusionary but real!
By Shilpa Raina
New Delhi, Feb 1 (IANS) Phew! Still huffing and puffing away in a gym to get six pack abs like your favourite actors Hrithik Roshan and Shah Rukh Khan? Experts say you can now get illusionary abs - with artistic cosmetic surgery.
Introduced in the country about three years ago, Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance (VASER) is a revolution of sorts as it's not only used for body contouring but also helps in getting illusionary abs.
Rajesh Khurana, president of Timpac Healthcare, says the illusion can be created by an artistic cosmetic surgeon. "In this, the hands and designing aspect is very important. First, the fat is removed from the body in longitudinal lines by creating humps in such a way that it creates an illusion," Khurana told IANS.
Timpac Healthcare is known for offering clinical obesity management, cosmetology, medical aesthetics, wellness, medi-spas and anti-aging treatments.
"This is done by etching the skin and removing superficial fat by segregating it from surrounding tissue through liposuction," said senior plastic surgeon Ajay Kashyap. "VASER uses third generation internal ultrasound technology that artfully, selectively and permanently contours the body into a more proportioned, smoother shape without compromising on comfort and safety."
The procedure can't be performed by every plastic surgeon because it requires special training to master the art. VASER, if explained in a more technical way, is an ultrasound-assisted liposuction system where fatty tissues are extracted from the body by using sound waves and they emulsify targeted fat cells.
The sound energy gets transmitted through small probes. These sound waves enter the holes and vibrate rapidly to produce ultrasound energy. This energy that penetrates inside the body breaks the cellular membrane and discharges the lipid content.
In India, there are only 10 machines available for the procedure because both the equipment and the process, which is still evolving, are expensive, says Khurana.
"Not many Indians opt for this procedure as it is very expensive and not every surgeon can perform it. A lot many people are not aware of this technology and a lot many can't afford it," he said.
In fact, when Shah Rukh made headlines for his six pack abs for "Om Shanti Om", his fans worshipped his perfection while fitness experts wondered.
Khurana is not sure, but he believes the superstar might have taken the help of technology for a quick-fix.
Noida-based fitness expert Aashu agrees. "It takes discipline, perfection and a lot of hard work to get six pack abs. You don't have to sacrifice food, but a lot many things to maintain them. A person can't achieve it in a few months, it takes time and patience," he said.
The cost for this procedure can be anywhere between Rs.100,000 and Rs.200,000 and recovery takes about a week.
Anup Dhir, senior cosmetic surgeon at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, said there is less blood loss and quick recovery, but "the disadvantage is if the cuts are not done in the right manner, the entire idea will flop".
Also, Kashyap says, one needs to work out to maintain those abs. A cardio routine for half an hour is essential. Brisk walking for 20 minutes helps and there should be some diet control as well in the initial weeks.
There are not too many takers for this right now. "It is around one to two enquiries per month, but operations take place once in three months because it's expensive," said Dhir.
(Shilpa Raina can be contacted at shilpa.r@ians.in)
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