Indholdsfortegnelse for July 2020 i Cosmopolitan India

Recently, I came across a philosophy that filled me with delight—dolce far niente. If you’ve read (and watched) Elizabeth Gilbert’s Eat, Pray, Love, you may already be familiar with the term. For those who aren’t, dolce far niente is an Italian saying that loosely translates as ‘the sweetness of doing nothing’. The Italians are noted for their warm personal relationships…and simple, everyday pleasures. Afternoon naps, a delicious meal with friends, a glass of wine savoured at sunset, a spontaneous evening stroll, an idle swim in a turquoise sea… These moments of niente—or nothingness—aren’t just respites from a stressful day; they are a part of many Italians’ everyday lives, to be enjoyed for exactly what they are. It must be stated that the art of doing nothing is not the same…

In Hollywood, there are two leading-guy archetypes RN: the quarterbacks and the soft bois. (Before you say something like, ‘That’s way too simple, there are definitely more kinds’, please read all the way through this airtight case.) The quarterbacks are the famous men you could run up to full-speed, do that Notebook-style leg-wrap-jump thing, and have absolutely no fear of falling. We’re talking about the Hemsworth brothers, Jason Derulo, Charles Melton, etc. Soft bois probably can’t hold you up (they prefer intense, full-body, squeezy hugs, anyway). But they can whip up a poetic Insta caption in 30 seconds or less. And they’ve read all the essential Jonathans: Franzen, Safran Foer, and Lethem. They’ll meet you at a bar wearing a logo-less hoodie that costs at least ₹20,000. Specimens include Lucas…

1. “A total turn-up song! It doesn’t matter what you’re celebrating (virtually, for now): a graduation, a marriage, or just a get-together. This is absolutely what you should be playing. You can’t listen to it and not smile.” 2. “If you’re making your friend do an Instagram photo shoot for you, this is the perfect soundtrack.” 3. “This is a beat to make you shake your booty and be the sexiest you can be.” 4. “Think sci-fi meets ‘hi-fi’ fashion. This inspires some serious robotic movements.” 5. “Now, for posing: this is the song I use to get my mind right for slinking down against a wall and getting a little moody. And the piano takes it to the next level.” 6. “When you need to absolutely rock something, from…

“One of the films that really changed my life was Hyderabad Blues by Nagesh Kukunoor. And this was when I hadn’t even watched the film, only read about it. Nagesh’s struggle to make a film about something that resonated with his life inspired me and that’s when I felt, ‘Yes, I can make films too!’. And they can be modern films that represent our lives, and don’ have to be about people singing songs around trees, or about villains or heroes. I saw Hyderabad Blues much later and absolutely loved it. So here is a list of a few such films that have stayed with me and inspired me…“ MONSOON WEDDING BY MIRA NAIR “I think I watched this one in a movie theatre in Delhi, while I was in…

ICE-LOLLY BRIGHTS Ready to make an entrance? Clash your colours, or just use one to brighten up your jeans-and-a-tee rotation. PREPPY AND POLISHED Heritage prints, logo mania, and luxe leather add a dose of sophistication to even the most casual of outfits. MINIMAL MONOCHROME Polish up your basics with ‘90s shapes, sleek sandals and a black-and-white palette. French-girl, cat-eye sunnies, optional. PRINCESS PASTELS This summer, be a maximalist. Pearls, feathers, jewels, et al….any texture that says ‘touch me’ is a go! FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN…

BOLD PRINTS A crop top, shrug, or jacket in bold prints is the easiest way to work the sneaker trend. And dressier the print, the better! Opt for prints in striking contrasts or bright colours to complement a pair of crisp, white sneaks. ELEGANT EARRINGS Nothing says hawt like a pair of standout earrings. They are an ideal pair-up for your favourite dress and sneakers, to achieve that perfect party look…from a fancy soirée to date-night. CHIC DRESSES If you still haven’t tried teaming sneakers with a (day or evening) dress, you really need to get with it! Wearing dresses only with heels is so passé. Going for a pair of comfy sneakers, instead, exudes a tonne of casual confidence, minus the aching feet. Bliss! GRAFFITI SNEAKERS The world of…

MANSI SAINI, 18 “For a fun take on the casual-meets-sporty vibe, I knotted my red tee to turn into a crop top, and teamed it with a pair of white, high-waist jeans. A white belt and boots, with a red cap and lipstick helped emanate a matchy feel and tie the look together.” PARNEET KAUR, 17 “Whenever in doubt, opt for denim on denim! Here, I’ve chosen a dark blue denim jacket, over white denim shorts, to create an easy, on-trend look. While the sneakers and sunglasses add to the summery vibe, I’ve thrown in bright blue socks for some fun colour-play.” CIPIA ARTUL, 21 “Orange is my go-to colour in summer, perfect to enliven even the most basic outfit. Here, I have worn a printed tube top in this…

You already read your astro predictions with devotion (‘Is December a good month for me? Lemme check my daily ’scope real quick.’) Why not let it take charge of your hair? Hear us out: bad hair days/months/years can mess with your vibe worse than Mercury Retrograde, but the ~power of the stars~ can turn that around. Especially if you match your hair care to your sign (because, duh, if you’re a Scorpio, your hair is gonna act all Scorpio, too). To make this super-easy for ya, we have divided the signs into their elements to decode which one works best for you. Each is centred around a specific, powerful ingredient. Go ahead—say goodbye to that I-giveup ponytail. FIRE SIGNS Aries, Leo, Sagittarius No, you’re not imagining things. All eyes *are*…

Scalpcials? If I’m going to pay for an actual facial, you better believe I need to walk out of there with the same skin as Gigi Hadid. So when what happens instead is red blotchiness, well… my, friends, I stopped getting facials! And this is also the reason why I’m skeptical of anything with ‘facial’ attached to it—including this new treatment I noticed on salon menus (before the lockdown!). To be fair, the concept itself does make sense: your scalp has a lot in common with the skin on your face, which is why you can find zits, red patches, and flaky spots hiding underneath your hair. So it stands to reason that a scalp facial *could* identify and treat that stuff. And that, fine, in the name of objectivity…

“Because of the kind of characters I play on-screen, people assume that I’m this intense person, who will bite their heads off!” “When I joined films, no-one knew me here. I was aware that I needed to stay put and keep trying for about four or five years before I’d start to see any dividends.” “In the beginning, I used to be a bit nervous. I didn’t know how to be, so I preferred to just be blank.” Jim Sarbh is trying to get his Internet connection restored when we call in for this interview. “Sorry, sorry, it’s been acting up for a few days…these guys will take just a few minutes”, he promises, apologising profusely. As we both wait for the snag to be repaired, it is difficult to…

Akansha Ranjan Kapoor LAST SEEN IN: GUILTY (NETFLIX) “I don’t think there was a time where I consciously ‘decided’ to be an actor. I was always acting from the time I was in school, and knew it was my passion. I didn’t know if I could do it professionally, but I always knew that this is what I wanted to spend my life doing. If not this, I would have done something in marketing. In fact, I worked in PR for about a year while I was testing for films. When it comes to cinema, I like ‘dark’ films…psychological or investigative thrillers. Shutter Island, Zodiac, and Seven are on top of my list. And the one film that I can’t get out of my head is Eternal Sunshine Of The…

Moroccanoil Smooth Smoothing Mask, ₹3,060 If your hair’s longing for some TLC, try this deeply nourishing and conditioning treatment. A concentrated combination of argan butter, argan oil, and coconut-derived fatty acids, this formula, to be used once a week, instantly improves hair’s texture, shine, and styling manageability. Plus, true to its name, it makes your locks smoother than ever! Laneige Cream Skin Refiner, ₹1,850 Meet toner 2.0: this baby is a twoin-one formula that preps and softens skin like a toner, and moisturises like a cream for max hydration. Created with Cream Blending Technology, it contains the same amount of ‘moisturisation’ as a jar of cream, transformed into the lightweight texture of a toner. Rimmel London Magnif’eyes Eye Contouring Palette in Colour Edition, ₹1,500 A fitting homage to the glorious…

IN THE MOUNTAINS Author of Bhaunri and Daura She stood in the half-shade of a white pine. The summer sun, mild even in the middle of the mountain-day, fell on her tonsured head and deep red c vara. “When did you decide to become a Bhikkhuni?” The smile on her still face was like a resting butterfly. “I did not decide. It was decided for me.” “By your parents?” I asked her. “By all our parents.” She raised her hand, palm facing away from her body, a gesture of blessing and ascension. “I was 13. There was a fair. I went with my friends. Everyone bought trinkets—bangles, hair clips, etc. We ate sweets till our mouths were sticky. We rode the Ferris wheel and the merry-go-round. By the end of…

Author of The Reason Is You This had been a great idea, to take a self-care day to reset and recalibrate. Leena had been quarantined with Abhishek for over a month, hiding from a global pandemic, and by this point, they were at each other’s throat. They had begun bickering about irrelevant things, and lately, they had been finding themselves midway through arguments, unable to remember what they were even fighting about. Their small, one-bedroom flat in Mulund West made it nearly impossible for them to have any space from each other, but after watching her favourite YouTuber’s latest video about self-care, Leena had decided that the only way to get things back on track was to take time away from each other. Abhishek had looked hurt when she’d suggested…

It’s time to turn to the heavens and indulge in some star gazing! Aquarius 20.01–18.02 This month is all about focusing on becoming an efficient communicator. Especially if you are single, express your real intentions. Work-wise, this is going to be a hectic month, and building a strong career will be a major area of focus. Mars will support you with the necessary energy you need RN, and it is time to take those important work decisions with the planets favouring you. With the pressure building up from the third week onwards, do take sufficient time to relax and rejuvenate. Pisces 19.02–20.03 Good news first: you will be at your charming best this month, and that shall work wonders for your love life. Singles are likely to find themselves in…

Cosmo: What is your skincare philosophy? Aditi Rao Hydari: “Let me start by saying that I am a dermatologist’s nightmare. I go by what I know and what works for me. It is probably because I have been doing it since I was a little girl and that is what I am used to. I feel what goes into your body is going to show on your skin, so eating healthy is crucial.” C: What’s your skincare routine like? ARH: “I do not have a skincare routine that I follow 365 days a year. It does not work for me. I pretty much just listen to my skin. I do whatever I need to, according to the weather, according to my schedule, or whatever it is that I feel my…

Not to overcomplicate things, but there's a susbset of soft bois called sad bois. They are soft but come with heavy baggage Robert Pattinson Look, we just know there’s a dark, twisty, gorgeous monster inside this man. You can see it when he does an interview and clearly HATES IT. Bradley Cooper With all that drama between Lady Gaga and Irina Shayk last year, he definitely has plenty of pain—which we’d happily listen to him ramble about. Zayn Malik Zayn is too busy writing delicate lyrics about mom-to-be Gigi Hadid to be able to do anything else (like tour), and that puts him firmly in sad-boi land.…

MY OVERALL NIGHTSTAND VIBE “Cluttered and overflowing. It’s a mess, and I’d be lying if I said I could navigate it. Thank you for asking me to do this interview, by the way—it has really drawn into focus how urgently I need to get organised.” WHAT’S IN THERE AT ALL TIMES “A crystal dagger, which I use to kill ghosts!” I WOULDN’T WANT MY MOM TO FIND… “If I didn’t want her to find it, why would I say it here?! She will definitely read this.” MY SNACK SITUATION “If there are any in there, they’re buried deep, and in a very advanced state of decay, so I’m better off never finding them.” WHAT’S ON TOP “A light. My keys. And a random pile of change.” WHAT I STEAL FROM…

If you’re the moodboard type, we’re willing to bet yours has this very famous Marilyn quote on it: ‘Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world.’ The OGs knew how important clothes were in crafting a public image, which is even more true today. But the problem is, they lived in a time when there was only one, narrow view of the ‘ideal’ kind of woman: light-skinned, petite, and ‘modest-yet-sexy-yet-innocent’ with big ‘domestic bliss’ vibes. Well, thank God we’re in the 21st century now, and mindsets are a-changing. So let’s go ahead and anoint the new fashion idols we all deserve.…

MULES Minimalistic yet sophisticated, they can be teamed with casualwear for a relaxed day out, or with dressy outfits to party the night away. These versatile babies come in a range of styles and colours to serve all purposes—get a quilted pair to stand out at that brunch, or pick a bejewelled, strappy number to elevate your look for the evening. The best part: they make you the toast of style-town, without killing ‘em feet! SQUARE TOES Anyone tired of the same ol‘ and looking for a zany breather, please say hello to the square toes. A runway favourite in SS20, they deserve a place in your wardrobe, for their minimalist, graphic vibe. The square-toe is a surprisingly amicable shape, getting along with pretty much everything, from jeans and skirts…

DRAPED IN ELEGANCE! With all its highs and lows, 2020 has been a defining year for many a style! This season, the focus is on drapes. The erstwhile 'boho' silhouette now comes with some seriously dressy, artfully-overhauled feels. Pick from the SS20 deluge of lush folds: draped, ruched, fluid and sculptural, as well as both form-framing and relaxed. Throw in a smattering of resplendent, statement accessories, and you're good to go. WATCH WHAT YOU WEAR From reworked classics and luxe new-entrants to jewellery-alternative hybrids and more, here are some latest offerings you should consider adding to your collection. ONE-TONE MINDS Monotone dressing has reigned supreme for many a season now. And while the SS20 runways have borne testimony to its popularity, Instagram proves that the trend won't be slowing down…

THE BRAIDY BUNCH The lazy girl's go-to, second-day hairdo is back in a super-glam avatar. Looking at its runway renditions, you would actually 'want' to lock your tresses into plaits, versus 'forced' to because of a greasy scalp. Given that models strutted down the runway at Christian Dior in school girl-esque twin braids is proof that this humble look is now part of the high-fashion pack. Among other versions, we saw Andrew GN's romance-meets-fantasy pearl-encrusted fishtail braid, sporty high-braids with pop scrunchies that gave off major athleisure vibes at Mark Fast, pigtails with floral headbands at Bora Aksu, and crown braids with a veil at Christian Dior's Couture show. IT'S TIME TO STOCK UP THE BEAUTY SHELF Indulging in a simple skincare, haircare, or make-up ritual can have a therapeutic…

Mithila Palkar has earned the title of a ‘seasoned player’ in the world of webseries. And she has only just begun. For a medium that has come into being fairly recently, Mithila might have had the first-mover’s advantage, but there’s more to the Girl In The City star’s popularity (and her 2.4 millions fans on Instagram). Because Mithila is not only evidently talented, she also has a relentless, determined spirit that has helped cement her position…firmly. Looking at her trajectory as an actor, which comprises webseries, Bollywood films (with legends like Irrfan Khan) and regional Marathi cinema, one might think that she has carefully curated her career. But Mithila is quick to point out that “it has all happened very organically”. As we catch up with the actor, she is…

Hot take alert: goodnight texts are waaay more significant than morning texts. They’re basically a subtle way to tell someone you’re thinking about them during one of the most intimate, private moments of the day—right before you fall asleep. Think about it: the few moments of reflection right before your slumber feel like the time when you’re most highly in tune with your emotions, needs, desires, and wants. It’s a good sign you’ve caught some major feels if, during those thoughts, you’re eager to send someone a solid goodnight text. But because these goodnight messages are a total make-or-break situation—like, you have to play it cool in some cases!—we’ve curated a list of the best goodnight texts to send to your person depending on what emotion you’re trying to evoke.…

We hit the gym because we know it’s good for our body. We diligently cleanse each night to save our skin. But it seems we’ve forgotten about one body part, and it’s a pretty major one: our brain. But by adding a few simple habits into our routines, we can exercise our grey matter and see improvement in all areas of our life—from our performance at work to helping prevent neurological conditions later down the line. How? UK-based psychologist, Kimberley Wilson, whose new book How To Build A Healthy Brain delves into the subject, explains… SLEEP Tuck yourself in. “The journey to a more resilient brain and better mental health starts in bed,” says Kimberley, who has observed the detrimental effects of burning the candle at both ends first-hand, having…

THE DECADE: ’50s GOT EYES FOR BOTH BOLD AND NUDE LIPS! A new wave of beauty exploded in the ’50s—as opposed to the preceding decade, cosmetic brands made a case for bold make-up, accentuating eyes and lips. A similar wave hit the SS20 runways as well…particularly at shows like Fendi, Moschino, and Dolce & Gabbana. Kohl-rimmed eyes, strikingyet-sleek liners, and fuller, matte pouts in reds and nudes are reminiscent of the ’50s, but have a miraculously modern vibe, too. While Dolce & Gabbana has often favoured this look and Fendi’s take was more pared down, Moschino joining the race was a change-up—although Jeremy Scott retained his signature punk element with paint-splotched chignons. THE DECADE: ’60s TWIGGY IS A MOOD! Seriously, why is this hashtag not trending already?! The one thing…

NEHA LAKHANI Chef Patissier and Co-Founder, Troublesome Duo Kitchens, and Chef-Ambassador, Le Cordon Bleu, Ottawa “I grew up eating chocolate muffins that are actually my mom’s own recipe. Now, when I crave sugar, I always indulge in these, because they are so comforting. As a chef, who can bake many more exotic dishes, I always find myself going back to these muffins. They taste exactly like my mom’s did…and take away all my worries, leaving me feeling relaxed and happy.” MOM’S CHOCOLATE MUFFINS Ingredients: 560gms flour, 150gms cocoa powder, 5 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp baking soda, 500gms sugar, 600ml milk, 120gms melted butter, 120ml oil, 4 tsp coffee powder, 2 tsp vanilla essence, 2 cups chocolate chips, 4 eggs,1 tsp salt. Method: Mix flour, cocoa powder, coffee powder, salt,…

Author of Three Impossible Wishes Someone anonymous confesses: “I have been told I am a terrible girlfriend. The problem isn’t how I behave in the relationship. When I’m in one, I am usually a dream. Your standard, spineless doormat. It is what I end up doing, which turns out to be rather unexpected of doormats—I ghost. Poof. Disappear without a trace. I may have spent years with this person, but now they’ll never be able to reach me. It’s not something I’m proud of, but in my pedestrian existence, this is somewhat of a ‘talent’. The rest of my life has always been average, at best. They say no man is an island, but, blessedly, I am a woman and a bloody good island. It’s because I am afraid I…

Author of Koi Good News and My Best Friend’s Son’s Wedding “She took her time in the shower, refusing to give in to Abhishek’s twisted trap” “Guys, I’ve decided to follow what the Prime Minister said last evening in his speech,” said Rish, stuffing her mouth with popcorn. “I am going to be atmanirbhar.” “Ew!” Maya said into the camera, taking her eyes off her nails for a split second. “Not that way, you dirty mind! I am just going to stop looking for love outside of me. I’m going to love myself and that will be enough.” “So you’re going to be single all your life,” Maya said, rolling her eyes. “A man’s love does not matter,” Rish snapped, almost spitting popcorn out of her mouth into our Zoom…

AS THE WORLD battles an unprecedented crisis, the Indian FASHION Industry IS ONE OF THE many to take a SERIOUS HIT. As ORDERS come to an abrupt halt, many upstart LABELS, young DESIGNERS, and even ESTABLISHED brands, STRUGGLE to stay afloat. And because many of these labels employ INDIAN WEAVERS and craftspeople, their LIVELIHOOD—AND SKILLS—are under threat. A few issues ago, Cosmo India TOOK A PLEDGE to dedicate a special section to HOMEGROWN labels and PRODUCTS, curated by EDITOR Nandini Bhalla. Whenever you decide to shop next, do consider one of these LOVE-FOREVER buys… 1 PAYAL PRATAP “With some imagination, you can escape the heat, and transport yourself to the English countryside. Take along this delightful, check jacket in handloom linen, featuring delicate, hand-embroidered flowers. It’s girly, without being twee at all.” Navy Rubin Check Jacket, ₹39,500 2 SAMEER MADAN “This bold, multicoloured dress is a great summer pick. Apart from featuring a fun mix of…

Pairing the right bottoms and footwear might be the most difficult decision you make each morning. (Okay, dramatic, but still.) It’s honestly trickier than it looks, ’coz some combos (example, longer shorts + ankle straps) can make you look ‘Honey-I-Shrunked’. Follow this plan for all the leg-lengthening ~secrets~ and to nail your look. TIP FOR YA Platform strappy sandals aren’t the *best* leglenghteners, but showing off a whole lotta skin makes up well for that. TIP FOR YA Cuff a belted pair to make it look a li’l less profesh and a lot more chill.…

NAIL THAT VIBE A single sweep of colour is so passé. Nail art has been taken to newer, more colourful heights this season. So bring out all your favourite shades and throw them in the mix, Jackson Pollock style! Or better: match your nails to your eyes for extra drama. DON’T LET IT SLIP Slip-on flats echo the easy glamour this season has brought with it. This style comes in many a form—beaded, embellished, woven, cross-stitched, et al—and pairs exceptionally well with different looks! FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN…

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN O.IN…

A few minutes before our scheduled video call for this interview, I message Bhumi Pednekar to remind her that excerpts from our recording will go up on social media. You know, just in case she would like to apply some lipstick or fix her hair or something. “Cool!” comes the reply, and moments later, Bhumi’s face pops up on my Skype screen, skillfully contoured, the high points of her cheeks glistening with highlighter. “I just finished filming a make-up tutorial for my social media handle,” she informs me, “which is why I’m all dolled up!” Bhumi’s love for “getting dolled up” is one of the things that often surprises people about her. Perhaps owing to her unconventional oeuvre; the fact that while each one of her on-screen roles has been…

1. What’s the first thing your eyes zap to on a dating profile? a. The bio. Can I talk to this person for the rest of my life? Do I want to? b. I only look at people who have already swiped right on me. I love a guarantee! c. LOL, I don’t have the emotional bandwidth to be on dating apps RN. d. Red flags, baby. Anything that indicates they’re gonna cheat. 2. Your worst group chat behaviour is: a. Having the hot take on a thing everyone else agrees on. b. Being all ‘…’ for 10 minutes before being like, ‘…’. c. Spewing unsolicited advice and/or typing, ‘If I were you…’. d. Cancelling plans (yep, even virtual ones). 3. Your friends never set you up with people because…

Q I have noticed a sudden spurt of acne on my face. What can I do to clear it up, and also to keep pimples at bay in the future, too? A: An acne attack can happen because of multiple things: clogged pores, hormonal imbalance, issues in the gut, stress, etc. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly and consuming leafy vegetables, tomatoes, and antioxidant-rich fruits can help considerably. When it comes to topical creams and serums, especially for acne-prone skin, consistency is crucial. Glycolic and salicylic acids are widely known for their skin-clearing properties. Try this multi-functional serum here that doesn’t just control bacteria and clear up dead skin cells, but also soothes skin, thanks to the unique botanical formula. Packed with exfoliating glycolic acid and dirt-destroying salicylic acid,…