Table of contents for March 2024 (Anniversary Issue) in Harper's Bazaar India

A profound sense of humility engulfs me as I sit down to write this note. I realise I’m just a small part of a global and Indian legacy…Bazaar India is celebrating 15 incredible years in my country, and I’m thrilled to be a part of this journey. Growing up in a household surrounded by strong women, I never felt there were limits to my dreams. Now, working in this esteemed publication with incredible women guiding me, I see that nothing is impossible. This brings me to our cover story, celebrating the power of women—something Harper’s Bazaar is known for championing. Our cover features Zeenat Aman and Ananya Panday, an unconventional pairing. Our cover stars embody style in every facet of their lives. Despite being generations apart, they are carving their…

ACCESSORISE ….WITH A RHODE PHONE CASE Hailey Bieber’s phone case is the ultimate fashion statement for beauty enthusiasts. Crafted from soft, squishy silicon, it feels luxurious to the touch. The signature grey colour complements any style, and it includes a special spot to hold the Rhode lip balm securely. WATCH ….DUNE: PART 2 Continuing Denis Villeneuve’s ambitious sci-fi saga, the main character Paul Atreides [Timothee Chalamet] joins forces with Chani [Zendaya] and the Fremen [a group of people in the Dune universe], driven by a desire for vengeance against those who ruined his family. Paul navigates love, duty, and a prophetic burden, determined to rewrite fate and protect his kin and the universe. READ ….THE GENTLEMAN FROM PERU André Aciman’s upcoming book, set for an early April release, is a…

NAVEL GAZING In case you haven’t heard yet, drop waist silhouettes are putting a spotlight on hips and accentuating them—echoing the early noughties’ low-waist obsession. Taking a cue from Michael Kors, who declared exposed belly button as the ‘last taboo’ in 2022 at the Met Ball. WHITE NOISE While one might contend that white transcends mere trendiness—standing as a timeless and classic hue—this season witnesses a revival of the colour through designers’ innovative exploration of diverse fabrics. From cotton and leather to chiffon, silk, and wool, the spectrum of white is reinvigorated with a fresh and varied approach. BACK IN THE GAME The Noughties fixation continues with the revival of polos. While we won’t attribute blame directly, Jacob Elordi’s character in Saltburn and his numerous polos with popped collars, may…

All it took was a single [Horsebit platform loafer] strut, and it’s a new era at the House of Gucci. Hitting a reset on Alessandro Michele’s divine maximalism, new Creative Director Sabato De Sarno’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection, Ancora [which in Italian translates to ‘again’], married everyday essentials with masterful tailoring featuring immaculate suiting, little white tees, and plain, embossed shift dresses. While the looks were super minimal, on foot, a new style of shoe made its debut. The models filed out in chunky platform loafers that took the collection to a whole different level. With a long-standing history that spans seven decades, the House’s iconic Horsebit loafer boasts an impeccable savoir faire that still stands the test of time. Crafted from Gucci Rosso Ancora leather, Sabato brought the big, bold…

Louis Vuitton’s latest high jewellery collection tells the rich tales of the earth’s genesis, the geological wonders and the interconnectedness of life. Titled ‘Deep Time’, the collection’s second chapter aims to take us on a journey to the birth of the planet with 50 one-of-a-kind pieces across 10 themes. Brought to life by Louis Vuitton’s Artistic Director for Watches and Jewellery Francesca Amfitheatrof, the mesmerising pieces trace the Maison’s journey through time. Francesca envisions the chapter as a continuation of a poetic collection that symbolises a vast and incredible storyline. The new collection boasts exquisite craftsmanship, and tells a powerful story of resilience. Spanning the birth of the planet to the beginning of life, the collection is not only aesthetic but has a surreal charm encrusted in these precious ornaments.…

ABHA NARAIN LAMBAH Conservation Architect Abha Narain Lambah’s journey in architectural conservation began three decades ago, when she graduated from the School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), Delhi. As someone who has been instrumental in giving a new lease of life to multiple historic buildings, including the Bikaner House (Delhi) and David Sassoon Library and Reading Room (Mumbai), she gained confidence to have a seat at the table during her days at the institute. While the gender ratio in her classroom was heavily skewed, the environment was rather liberal—which is what broadened her mind at a young age. “The girls to boys ratio was miserable; it was probably 1:10. But we also had a co-ed hostel with no warden; there were no questions asked. It opened up my mind that…

In the dynamic realm of Japanese hip-hop, Akiko Urasaki, also known as Awich, has emerged as a trailblazer. Her fusion of traditional Japanese elements with modern hip-hop beats sets her apart, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and cutting-edge. Awich’s collaborations with international artists have further amplified her impact. She has also been meeting many Indian hip-hop icons, like Karan Kanchan and KR$NA. As Awich continues to evolve as an artist, her influence extends beyond music, encapsulating a cultural movement that resonates with a diverse audience. Harper’s Bazaar: How has your upbringing influenced your music identity? Awich: Growing up in Okinawa, I was immersed in a unique cultural blend of indigenous Okinawan, Japanese, and American influences. This melting pot of cultures has deeply influenced my music. The island’s rich history…

HIGH-OCTANE DRAMA Bejoy Nambiar’s film, Dange, released on Netflix on March 1st. Exploring the intricate layers of college life, the film offers themes ranging from friendship to rivalry. Lead actor Nikita Dutta expresses her excitement. “Shooting for Dange has been an exhilarating journey. As an actor, every moment on set was electrifying,” she tells Bazaar India. REBIRTH OF A CULINARY ICON The Spice Route unveils a new menu, which is an amalgamation of Asian aromas. From hand-folded Thai spring rolls, and flaky duck handbags, to crispy jackfruit with a velvety vegetable curry and gindara miso cod, the culinary artisans have crafted exclusive recipes. With this new chapter of gastronomic excellence, head chef Mustian aims to weave a story of rich culinary heritage. SMALL JOYS OF LIFE For Neeraj Bakshi, art…

In 1985, Welspun Living, the popular Mumbai based home textile brand opened its first mill in Palghar, a small town between Mumbai and Gujarat, exporting its offerings around the world. Today, the textile unit has grown into a global conglomerate spanning across more than 50 countries. The brand found great success on international shores, where it has expanded considerably and is a market leader today. Its journey from a small unit in Gujarat to being a global leader in the home textile industry has been powered by innovation, resilience, and a commitment to a smarter and sustainable future. Teaming up with The Walt Disney Last year, Welspun entered into a deal with The Walt Disney, which has resulted in beloved characters from the animated world of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and…

Place of Publication : New Delhi Periodicity of its Publication : Monthly Printer’s Name : Manoj Sharma Nationality : Indian Address : 1806, Sylvan View-1, Eldeco Utpoia, Sector-93, Noida, Gautam Buddha Nagar Uttar Pradesh-201301 Publisher’s Name : Manoj Sharma Nationality : Indian Address : 1806, Sylvan View-1, Eldeco Utpoia, Sector-93, Noida, Gautam Buddha Nagar Uttar Pradesh-201301 Editor’s Name : Rasna Kaur Bhasin Nationality : Indian Address : House No. 14, Road No. 51, West Punjabi Bagh, New Delhi - 110026 Names and Addresses of individuals who own the newspaper and partners or shareholders holding more than one percent of the total capital: Owner: M/s. Living Media India Limited, F26, Ist Floor, Connaught Place, New Delhi – 110 001. Shareholders holding more than one percent of the total capital of the…

AVANI RAI, PHOTOGRAPHER On the one superpower she wishes for: “The superpower I wished I had would be to be present in more than one place and do more than one thing at one time. I feel I’ve always wanted to be versatile because self-expression does not have a medium, that means it does not have a profession. I feel I’m being able to slowly fulfill that need.” RICHA GOYAL SIKRI, JOURNALIST & STORYTELLER On the one superpower she wishes for: “Being able to create another person in your body definitely sounds like a superpower to me. As a human being, if there was an additional superpower I could have, it would be the ability to better understand others, their objectives, their desires.” Richa wrote on Cartier’s exhibition showcasing the…

To the world, Sabyasachi Mukherjee is a celebrated couturier who’s maximalist expressions, creative innovation, and unwavering mission to put Indian fashion on the global map, collectively serves the grand scheme of the business of luxury. In his heart, he is a deeply passionate artist for whom socio-cultural standpoints, values of revivalism and modernism form the irreversible attributes of fashion. In an exclusive conversation, Sabyasachi elaborates on his penchant for exoticism, signature cultural savoir-faire, latest high jewellery collection, and more. Harper’s Bazaar: With global expansions, creative collaborations and exquisite store launches, the ‘Sabyasachi experience’ has translated into a larger-than-life affair. How do you always manage to stay ahead of the curve? Sabyasachi Mukherjee: I am vehemently opposed to the fragility of trend and season. For me, it’s about creating not just…

The mystique of India and its rich tradition of craft has captivated the imagination of global jewellers for millennia. Cartier’s love affair with India dates back to 1911, marking a defining moment in western jewellery lore when Mr Cartier embarked on a journey to India, delving into the nation’s precious gems and jewels. By 1925, the once diamond, pearl, and platinum-centric collections transformed into colourful cabochons and carved gems. Echoes of traditional Mughal treasures reverberated through Cartier’s motifs, encapsulating the fusion of cultures and craftsmanship. The allure of this country permeates down to a growing cohort of global independent jewellers, drawn to the immersive sensory experience that India has to offer. “I had lots of hazy ideas about India gleaned from Merchant ivory movies and growing up in the V&A…

On an ordinary Thursday, the hum of Noida life was rudely stilled for 20-something Simranh. A sudden drop in blood pressure laid her flat on her back, making her feel like a stranger in her own new haven. The familiar sounds of the neighborhood seemed distant, her husband away, and her young children a world unto themselves. “It was a wave of nausea,” she recalls, the memory painting a seasick grimace on her face. “My elder daughter was in school, the little one barely two, and I had no one to call for help. I had barely stepped out of the house in my early years of marriage, except for my monthly kitty parties.” It was then that fate, disguised as a phone call, intervened. A woman from her kitty,…

ANAVILA MISHRA FOUNDER, ANAVILA, JAIPUR If there is one brand in India that epitomises quiet luxury and slow fashion, it is Anavila. Designer Anavila Mishra’s eponymous label focuses on the rich history of Indian handloom industry, incorporating the same in its collections. Established in 2011, Anavila even made its couture debut in 2023. Here’s more from our interesting conversation with the designer. Harper’s Bazaar: What inspired you to build a brand with a strong emphasis on textiles? Anavila Mishra: My inspiration is rooted in my love for crafts and the hand-made, offering endless opportunities for expression. My time at the Ministry of Rural Development deepened my understanding of Indian textiles at the grassroots, prompting me to apply design insights for a meaningful impact. HB: What is your process for choosing…

When Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, the author of over 20 fiction books including, Palace of Illusions, The Forest of Enchantments, The Last Queen, and The Mistress of Spices, among others, was approached to write the biography of one of India’s most iconic couples—Sudha Murty and Narayana Murthy—she was sceptical. “I told Chiki Sarkar of Juggernaut that I could not do it because I had never written nonfiction. But she said, give it a try. I think you will find this story fascinating,” says the 67-year-old Indian born American author and poet. And that’s how An Uncommon Love: The Early Life of Sudha and Narayana Murthy came about after over two years of research that included Chitra spending a lot of time in Bengaluru with the Murthys. “With fiction, the fun part…

PISCES FEBRUARY 20-MARCH 20 It’s time to embrace your creativity and intuition in the workplace! A fresh approach to a project could lead to some exciting opportunities. Keep an open mind and trust your instincts. In love and friendships, remember that communication is key. Don’t be afraid to express your feelings and listen to others. A little vulnerability can go a long way in building stronger connections. ARIES MARCH 21-APRIL 20 A new opportunity at work is on the horizon. Keep your eyes peeled, and be ready to take the lead. In love and friendships, it’s all about open communication. Don’t be afraid to express your feelings and desires. Your honesty will be appreciated and bring you closer to those around you. TAURUS APRIL 21-MAY 21 Looks like you’re in…

The March issue of Harper’s Bazaar India delves into the roles women assume as entrepreneurs, artists, businesswoman, and various other unconventional pursuits, bringing into attention the power they now enjoy. This month’s How Bazaar focuses on the intricate relationship between a girl and her mother, where the latter is arguably the most significant figure in the former’s life. While not all mothers or maternal figures embody Mater Dolorosa, the unconditional love they harbour is undeniable. Today, we celebrate not only biological mothers but also adoptive parents, mentors, and influential women who shape the lives of those around them. This October 1916 cover of Harper’s Bazar US, elegantly illustrated by American artist and children’s book author Marjorie Torre Bevans, evokes nostalgia for moments when our mothers or maternal figures patiently read…

TARUN TAHILIANI “She is unafraid to experiment and has the ability to have fun with her clothing. Whether it is the use of colour, interesting silhouttes, embroideries or simply the willingness to mix and match. Seen here is the ‘Bazaar woman’ in a colour block corset with an embroidered keyhole, and organza, ruffle-sleeved shirt which can be worn with shorts, long trousers, wide pants or in this case a long-pleated skirt. She’s having fun, being herself and authetically experiencing fashion.” ABU JANI AND SANDEEP KHOSLA “The ‘Bazaar woman’ is self-defined. She is her own creation. Born to live her own dream. A dream that brings purpose to her life, one that includes others in her embrace. For us, this kaftan is a quintessential ‘Bazaar woman’. It reflects nonchalance and an…

When Carrie Bradshaw (the iconic character played by actor Sarah Jessica Parker) said, “I lost my Choo…,” in the wildly popular show Sex and The City, the ‘it’ accessories brand Jimmy Choo became synonymous with cultural zeitgeist. Having redefined sophistication ever since it’s genesis in 1996, Jimmy Choo has held on to it’s global reputation as one of the finest shoemakers in the world, and has extended it’s innovative craftsmanship and time-honoured design sensibilities to statement bags. In an exclusive conversation, Creative Director Sandra Choi takes us through the brand’s glorious legacy, decodes her design vocabulary, and talks about the latest Spring/Summer’24 collection. Harper’s Bazaar: How do you view the evolution of fashion and its impact on the legacy of Jimmy Choo? Sandra Choi: Fashion is so cyclical, trends come and go,…

All about volume and movement, Nicolas Ghesquière’s Louis Vuitton SS’24 collection bridged the gap between high fashion and elevated essentials. Having shown an affinity for mixing styles and fabrics, Nicolas captured the essence of his signature creative vocabulary for the collection showcased last year in October, at Champs-Élysées in Paris. The term ‘fascinating’ is certainly what the SS’24 collection can be described as—a compendium of inspiration starting from Nicolas’ penchant for travel with a captivating hot air balloon inspired backdrop envisioned by the American production designer, James Chinlund, in her scenography of a warm summer light set. With styles that were punctuated with graphic stripes and sophisticated motifs—like the two-tone oversize leather jacket, double-layered long silk skirt, and the long sleeve striped silk top—the construction of his striking pieces fused…

Kanika Goyal is on a roll. The Delhi-based designer showcased at London Fashion Week for the first time. The Autumn/Winter collection is more of a deeper extension into themes and techniques she has been experimenting with over the years, says Kanika. Over an email interaction, the designer lets us into the making of her vibrant collection that explored fragmented memories and identities. Here’s more from our interesting interaction. Harper’s Bazaar: What inspired the theme or concept behind your upcoming collection for London Fashion Week? Kanika Goyal: Arc Echo, the Autumn/Winter’24 collection, epitomises an enigmatic exploration into fragmented memories, the interweaving of past and future experiences, and the subtle intricacies of self-reflection. Drawing inspiration from the ethereal realm where memories converge and the fluidity of one’s perception blurs, the collection aims to…

How rich is the history of women’s watches? At the outset, it’s worth noting two points. One, in respect to how the modern wristwatch came to be, women—not men—are at the centre of the story. And two, though within the watch industry a lot of bragging is done about which company was the first to do this or the first to do that, there is only one company that can rightfully claim to have designed the first wristwatch as we know it today. The story begins with Breguet. Abraham-Louis Breguet set up his watchmaking workshop in Paris in 1775, making Breguet one of the world’s oldest watch brands. Thirty-five years later, in 1810, he’d created something unprecedented for Caroline Murat, queen of Naples: a watch designed to be worn on…

KARUNA EZAR A PARIKH Author of The Heart Asks Pleasure First and Where Stories Gather Music and lyrics, especially from the rock and roll genre, introduced Karuna Ezara Parikh to the world of rhyme and rhythm, fostering a deep love for poetry. Moving from the fast-paced metropolis of Delhi to the slower rhythm of Kolkata shaped her experiences profoundly. Kolkata, with its artistic vibe and unhurried pace, provided the author with the space and inspiration to create. “A different person might find freedom in a NewYork, or an island somewhere, but at the time I moved here, seven or eight years ago, it was what I needed, which gave me immense room to create,” says Karuna. This shift was pivotal, as it gave her the freedom and environment necessary to…

Huma Qureshi is no stranger to strong female characters. Be it the tough and whip-smart Mohsina in her debut film Gangs of Wasseypur, or the inspiring, boundary-pushing Tarla Dalal in the late food writer’s biopic that released last year, Huma fits right into every spirited roles on screen. So, it isn’t much of a surprise that she has decided to make her own little space for spunky, sassy women in a different medium through her new book—With Zeba: An Accidental Superhero—that is about a rebellious brat who is suddenly thrust with the responsibility to save the world with superpowers. In conversation with Bazaar India, she talks about her process, how much of her own self translated into the book, and whether she’ll be picking up the pen again. Harper’s Bazaar:…

LADY CHATTERLEY’S LOVER This novel by DH Lawrence was originally published in 1928, and explores the emotions of a lonely woman who’s trapped in a sterile marriage. The book presents her growing love for the robust gatekeeper of her husband’s estate—portraying an extramarital affair and the explicit sexual exploration of its central characters. The book earned a controversial reputation and was banned as pornography until 1960. THE PRICE OF SALT A lesbian cult classic penned by Patricia Highsmith was originally published in 1952 under the pseudonym Claire Morgan. Termed “the novel of a love society forbids”, it follows sales clerk Therese and Carol—a divorcing homemaker—who defy societal norms to embrace their love. Their bliss shatters when a heartbreaking choice awaits Carol between her child and lover. THE SHEIK Written by…

Zeenat Aman and Ananya Panday have never met, but you wouldn’t think so witnessing the scene at a studio in the tony suburb of Bandra, Mumbai. The 25-year-old welcomes the 71-year-old with a warm hug and instantly breaks ice as she chats about how Ananya’s mom, Bhavana, crossed paths with Zeenat few weeks back in Pune. “I’m seeing my favourite grandchild,” says Zeenat at one point. Ananya felt that grandma warmth in the touch of Zeenat’s hand. “Being so close to her reminded me a lot of my dadi,” says Ananya. The scene is less a clash of generations and more a beautiful alignment of the new and the old guard. Ananya wasn’t born; in fact her father, Chunky Panday, hadn’t made his own screen debut, when Zeenat was at…

Laura Mercier has always been an artist at heart. Leaving paintbrushes for make-up brushes, Laura launched her eponymous label in 1996. She has now forayed into India. Her brand has become synonymous with high-quality products that enhance, rather than mask, individual beauty. The brand’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in its diverse hues that ensure people of all skin tones can find products that cater to their unique beauty needs. Laura says she still stands by her philosophy—what makes you unique makes you beautiful. Here’s more from our interesting conversation: Harper’s Bazaar: You began your career as a makeup artist before launching your brand. Could you please take us through your journey. Laura Mercier: Well, it’s a long story, but I’m going to make it short (laughs). I wanted to…