Life & Style

Painting by Francis Newton Souza
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

As Passion Week looms near beginning April 12, one recalls India’s enfant terrible Francis Newton Souza, one of artist Krishen Khanna’s greatest friends and founder of the Progressive Arts Group now known as India Moderns.

Why does one remember Souza, and how does he connect to Holy Week? While he was critical of the Church, he was a lover of church music and hymns. When in the city of Delhi during the 1990s he would come to the Church of the Redemption at President’s Estate to listen to the Christmas concert of the Delhi Christian Chorus with his best friend Virendra Kumar.

Last year at the home of a friend, 99-year-oldKrishen recalledhis archives of letters and remembered how they would visit concerts together in London.

In one of his exhibitions in 1948 at the Bombay Art Salon,Souza had written: “I was born in Goa in April 1924, my parents are Roman Catholics. I am an atheist, but I developed a love for stained-glass windows and church music. First the Gregorian chant and Mozart’s ‘Requiem’ and Beethoven’s ‘Mass in D’, made lasting impressions on my mind. It is Bach however who made my musical appreciation. He is rarely played in Catholic churches because he was a Protestant.”

Francis Newton Souza
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

On April 12, 2025 Francis Newton Souza would have turned 101, and this is a good time to think back on the life and times of this genius andmaverick who believed Nature was the true God.

The first time I met him in the early 1990s he spoke of his memories of Konkani hymns sung at mass in Bombay. His love for those memories brought about his many paintings on the Eucharist with the still life of the chalice. These paintings at the 100-year celebration by Grosvenor Gallery, London, exhibited in Delhi this January, brought back fresh vignettes of Souza.

Materials and compositional clarity were Souza’s best allies. He could with pastel and paint create a series of Eucharist studies in the cadences of cubist idioms and fascinating facets. His choice of colour and the cross-hatched textures created their own synergy. Amongst all these were his still life studies of vases with flowers created as a recall of church masses in childhood. The churches then and its many multi-farious architectural nuances too became a part of the landscape of his evolution.

Painting by Francis Newton Souza
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

While one looked at his priest heads and found them robust as well as resilient, one recalls his contempt for the priests who he felt had fallen to corrupt ways in the service of the Church.

This April as Holy Week dawns we must with love and appreciation, remember this great Indian artist who etched the lines of contemporary art history with his innate love for sacred music as well as humble rituals born of his Catholic upbringing. Christ’s Crucifixion was a subject he created with verve and vivacity.Golgotha in Goa,was one such classic work offered at an auction years ago.

The writer is an art curator and critic.

While big romantic gestures can be memorable, happy couples know that it’s the consistent small things that truly keep their relationship going. Making your partner’s morning coffee, leaving a thoughtful note, or simply asking how their day was— these actions quietly say, “I see you. I care.” And it is these small gestures that they count the most, in the long run.

Global pop icon Shakira chose a sculptural Lunar Blue Wolf Gown for her maiden performance at the Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour 2025 in Rio de Janeiro, which marks her feisty return to the stage after seven years. The Colombian singer’s outfit, designed by Gaurav Gupta, featured a custom-molded metallic breastplate adorned with an intricate wolf motif. This also points at the return of the breastplate, an accessory that has made waves from mythology to modern fashion.

Shakira in a sculptural Lunar Blue Wolf Gown 
| Photo Credit:
Special arrangement

Inspired by the idea of armour, Gaurav wanted to create something that was not as defensive but an outward expression of inner strength and beauty. “The breastplate is a sculptural yet ethereal statement, celebrating the balance between protection and grace,” adds Gaurav, who also created the silver bustier that Alia Bhatt sported when she debuted at the Paris Fashion Week 2024 in September as L’Oréal Paris’s newly appointed global ambassador.

Breastplate designed for Alia Bhatt
| Photo Credit:
Special arrangement

“The metal breastplate she (Alia) wore is part of our artistic journey, initiated in the Aarohanam collection at Paris Couture Week Spring/Summer 2024. The piece was custom moulded to her form and took about 50 hours for craftspersons to perfect,” says Gaurav.

Gaurav Gupta
| Photo Credit:
Special arrangement

The designer’s interpretation points towards the ever-evolving nature of the breastplate that was once purely used as protective gear in ancient Greece. It was typically made with hammered bronze plates and boiled leather.

However, in the 1880s, the influence of the Victorian era metamorphosed the piece of armour into a form-fitting, long-waisted bodice known as ‘cuirass bodice’.

Many iterations later, the breastplate emerged on high fashion runways in the late 1960s and early 70s, having been embraced by prolific designers like Yves Saint Laurent and Alexander McQueen. A decade later, Japanese fashion designer Issey Miyake’s rendition of the breastplate Plastic Body became the centrepiece of his Bodywork series that highlighted experimental and sculptural garments.

In India, designer Suneet Varma was the first to take the plunge in 1991
| Photo Credit:
Special arrangement

In India, designer Suneet Varma was the first to take the plunge in 1991. Inspired by Sandro Botticelli’s painting The Birth of Venus, he used breastplates for blouses and created quite a stir. The idea of combining the metal piece with a sari, he says, came from a deeper desire to challenge conventional boundaries of fashion and redefine how traditional attire could be worn.

“The sari is an iconic symbol of grace and femininity, but I wanted to infuse it with a sense of power and modernity. By pairing it with the elegance of a sari, I sought to create a visual metaphor for the modern Indian woman — someone who embodies both grace and courage,” shares Suneet. For him, it was all about creating a look that tells the story of empowerment — one that blends tradition with a forward-thinking approach to fashion. “Even its resurgence is a reflection of how fashion has moved beyond aesthetics to become a tool for women to express their personal journeys, identities and beliefs,” he shares.

Bollywood actress Sanya Malhotra in a sculpted gold breastplate by Samesisters, with a vintage sari by Shanti Benaras
| Photo Credit:
Special arrangement

At the Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant wedding last year, Radhika chose a custom toga designed by New York-based designer Grace Ling. The centrepiece was an aerospace aluminum breastplate that was made by a team of over 30 artisans. It was carved, sculpted and printed in 3D, showcasing the versatility of the craft. 

Last year, actress Sanya Malhotra wore a rich Kanjeevaram sari by Shanti Banaras with a bold, custom breastplate crafted by occasion-wear brand Samesisters. The brand’s founder, Sachi Raval, was given a brief to create a modern silhouette, which had its roots in India. “It felt like a dream brief because Samesisters is an exploration of what Indian wear means today. I am from the South of India and a big part of me is inspired by its culture. A Kanjeevaram breastplate fits in right,” she says.

Shakira poses with the sculptural Lunar Blue Wolf designed by Gown Gaurav Gupta
| Photo Credit:
Special arrangement

Over time, the breastplate has transcended its traditional connotations, evolving into a piece that speaks to both masculinity and femininity without constraint, says Gaurav. “In our work, it’s about channelling inner power, not adhering to gender roles. Whether it’s worn by women or men, the breastplate symbolises transformation and rebirth, much like the mythological creatures that inspire it,” he adds.

Interestingly, the versatility of the breastplate makes it relevant across different periods. Gaurav highlights how it can work beautifully with overflowing gowns to contrast softness with structure, or as a bold layer over a minimalist silhouette allowing craftsmanship to shine. “It can be paired with high-waisted pants, as Alia did at Paris Fashion Week, or with a skirt for a powerful edgy look,” he says.

Custom Kanjeevaram Breastplate by Samesisters
| Photo Credit:
Special arrangement

For a modern, power-driven look, the breastplate pairs exceptionally well with structured pantsuits or tailored blazers, offering a fusion of corporate and creative fashion, adds Suneet. “The breastplate adds an element of surprise to an outfit, making it stand out without overwhelming the rest of the ensemble. Its ability to transition from traditional to contemporary makes it an essential piece for those looking to push fashion boundaries,” he says.

Initially, the breastplate was seen as a statement piece worn by celebrities and socialites at high-profile events. However, over the years, there has been a growing demand from clients who are looking to incorporate bold and unique elements into their wardrobes for special occasions.

“Brides are increasingly drawn to the idea of making a powerful statement with their wedding attire and the breastplate adds an unexpected element to their ensemble. It’s not just confined to the red carpet anymore; women are exploring its versatility for events like cocktail parties, fashion-forward weddings, and even exclusive themed soirées,” says Suneet.

The sculpted breastplate can be seen as a form of rebellion against the censorship and objectification of the female body, says Sachi. Bold and unapologetic, she adds that it allows women to reclaim their bodies on their own terms, presenting it as art rather than something to be hidden or censored.

Bill Gates with his daughter Phoebe
Photo: Bill Gates/ Instagram

From humble beginnings to one of the richest tech billionaires in the world, Bill Gates‘ journey is nothing short of inspiring. And when your dad is Bill Gates, you’d think life would be a non-stop ride of luxury, freedom, and no rules. But 22-year-old Phoebe Gates, the youngest of his three kids, is here to tell a different story. In fact, growing up as a Gates’ kid came with it own set of strict rules— even if her billionaire dad didn’t always follow them himself, his youngest daughter Phoebe recently revealed!
On her new podcast titled ‘The Burnouts’, Phoebe Gates opened up about the pressures of being a “nepo baby” and how hard she tried to prove herself beyond the family name. Though she studied Human Biology at Stanford, in the podcast she confessed she often felt like she had to work twice as hard to feel like she belonged.
And while it is well known that her father, Bill Gates, took a leap of faith and dropped out of Harvard to build Microsoft, he made one thing very clear to Phoebe: That she was not allowed to do the same!

Bill Gates’ daughter Phoebe reveals the billionaire rule she couldn’t break in her podcast.

“You need to finish your degree; you don’t just get to drop out and start a company,” she recalls her parents telling her. And ironically, the rule came from Gates, whose dropout story became part of tech history and is spoken about even today!
How was it like growing-up as a Gates kid
Despite the unimaginable wealth, Phoebe further shared that her childhood as a Gates kid was very grounded and disciplined. She also shared that she was constantly reminded of the privilege she had. Now a college graduate and podcast host, she’s using her platform to talk about the stuff that really matters to young people— like burnout, pressure, identity, and the need to find your own path.
For the unversed, Bill Gates and Melinda French Gates were married for 27 years before they officially announced their divorce in 2021. Bill and Melinda have three children together– Jennifer, Rory, and Phoebe. READ ALL ABOUT THE GATES KIDS HERE
Meanwhile, in one of his earlier posts on social media, Bill Gates had shared that he and his daughter Phoebe both share a great love for books, and that John Green was one of their favourite authors of all time.

As the fashion world braces for Met Gala 2025, anticipation is at an all-time high. Set to take place on May 5 at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, this year’s gala promises a spectacular display of couture under the theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” inspired by Monica L. Miller’s 2009 book Slaves to Fashion. The official dress code, “Tailored for You,” has already sparked global conversations about craftsmanship, personal expression, and style reinvention.

While the Met Gala is known for its Hollywood-heavy guest list, Bollywood has steadily carved out its presence on the famed steps—thanks to style icons like Priyanka Chopra, Deepika Padukone, and Alia Bhatt. However, 2025 could mark a groundbreaking shift: the debut of not one, but two Indian celebrities, one of them reportedly a Bollywood superstar making his red carpet entry in collaboration with what insiders are calling “the biggest designer of our generation.”
While actress Kiara Advani is rumoured to be making her Met Gala debut this year, possibly flaunting her baby bump, the Internet is abuzz with speculation over the identity of the mystery male celebrity. Fashion watchdog Diet Sabya ignited the frenzy with a cryptic post on Instagram, “STOP THE PRESSES!!! The impossible just happened! Two titans of their craft—the greatest Bollywood superstar and the biggest designer of our -generation are joining forces for their Met Gala 2025 debut… HISTORY in the making!”

Naturally, fans and fashion sleuths wasted no time jumping into the guessing game. Reddit threads have exploded with theories, with Shah Rukh Khan emerging as the frontrunner. “The greatest Bollywood superstar” tag seems tailor-made for him, and many speculate a collaboration with Sabyasachi could be in the works. Others are betting on Ranbir Kapoor or Ranveer Singh, especially since Ranbir has a high-stakes international film, Ramayana, to promote, and Ranveer is known for his flamboyant fashion statements.
Adding fuel to the fire, the original Diet Sabya post was liked by none other than Alia Bhatt, raising eyebrows and fanning further speculation. Some fans are even decoding emojis used in the post – like a tiger, possibly hinting at Sabyasachi.

While no official confirmation has been made, one thing’s for sureif a male Bollywood star does step onto the Met Gala carpet this year, it’ll be a historic first. Whether it’s SRK, Ranbir, or Ranveer, the fashion world is watching, and expectations are sky-high.
Thumb image is an AI rendition of how Shah Rukh Khan may look at the Met Gala, in case he makes an appearance.

Prada’s acquisition of Versace from Capri Holdings for $1.375 billion marks a significant consolidation in Italian fashion. This strategic move aims to bolster Italy’s presence in the global luxury market, challenging French dominance. Prada seeks to revitalize the financially struggling Versace, leveraging its established platform.

In a landmark move for Italian fashion, Prada has announced its acquisition of iconic rival Versace from Capri Holdings in a deal valued at $1.375 billion. The strategic takeover not only unites two of Italy’s most influential fashion houses but also strengthens the country’s position in a global luxury market long dominated by French giants like LVMH and Kering.

Prada, which has managed to defy the recent downturn in luxury demand, is aiming to scale its operations. Versace, on the other hand, has been struggling financially, operating at a loss in recent quarters. The acquisition is expected to give the brand a fresh runway for revival under the stewardship of one of Italy’s most established fashion groups.
“We aim to continue Versace’s legacy by celebrating and reinterpreting its bold and timeless aesthetic,” said Prada Chairman Patrizio Bertelli. “At the same time, we will provide it with a strong platform, reinforced by years of ongoing investments and rooted in longstanding relationships.”
The agreed price is notably lower than the $2.15 billion (including debt) that Capri Holdings paid when it acquired Versace in 2018 from the Versace family and Blackstone. The deal, which also includes Versace’s debt, reflects the brand’s recent performance challenges amid a global luxury slowdown.
Prada’s acquisition forms a powerful multi-brand luxury group, positioning it to better compete with French conglomerates and expanding its influence in high fashion. Talks between Capri and Prada reportedly began in February, culminating in this high-stakes industry shift.

Andrea Guerra, CEO of Prada, remarked, “Versace has huge potential. The journey ahead will be long and will require disciplined execution and patience.”
Capri Holdings, which also owns Jimmy Choo and Michael Kors, is now set to streamline its portfolio following the Versace sale.

The transition comes shortly after a major leadership shift at Versace. In March, Donatella Versace stepped down from her creative director role after nearly three decades, taking on a new title as Chief Brand Ambassador. Dario Vitale, former design and image director at Miu Miu, now leads the brand as its Chief Creative Officer.

As Versace begins this new chapter under Prada’s umbrella, the fashion world is watching to see how this Italian alliance reshapes the luxury landscape.

The Guindy National Park is one of the few protected areas in the heart of the city and provides a refuge for both spotted deer and blackbucks. File
| Photo Credit: S.R. Raghunathan

A long-neglected parcel of land within Guindy National Park is set to be restored. Known as the Polo Ground — named after its use during British rule when trees were cleared for polo matches — the area has since become overrun with invasive plant species. Despite its condition, it remains an important habitat for blackbucks.

The Guindy National Park is one of the few protected areas in the heart of the city and provides a refuge for both spotted deer and blackbucks. Blackbucks, in particular, depend on open grasslands to survive. 

Within the Guindy National Park-IIT-Raj Bhavan complex, the Polo Ground is the only significant open space available for them to graze. Grasslands are otherwise scarce and unevenly distributed across the park.

Efforts are now underway to revive this habitat. According to Manish Meena, Wildlife Warden of Chennai, a four-hectare section of the Polo Ground is being restored. Invasive species, including Mexican grass, have already been removed, and seven native grass species will be planted. Additionally, legume species will be introduced to enhance soil fertility.

Ecologist and conservationist R.J. Ranjit Daniels welcomed the initiative, calling it “a very good move”, as the grasslands are critical for the survival of blackbucks. He noted that in other parts of the country, like Rajasthan, blackbucks engage in “lek mating”—a behavior where males gather to perform competitive displays and courtship rituals. However, such behavior has not been observed in Guindy National Park, possibly due to limited open space. 

The coastal town of Puri in Odisha is much more than just a beach destination. Steeped in history, spirituality, and rich cultural traditions, it offers travellers an immersive experience. Famous for the revered Jagannath Temple, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, the town pulses with the energy of devotees. The town’s markets brim with the intricate Pattachitra paintings, sand and shell art, and Odisha’s handlooms. Here are five unmissable experiences when in Puri:

Sun Temple of Konark

Tourists going around the Konark Temple, a 13th Century monument and UNESCO Heritage Site, located at a distance of about 35 kilometres from Puri in Odisha.
| Photo Credit:
K R DEEPAK

A short 50-kilometre drive from Puri takes you to the Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 13th century by King Narasingha Deva I, this architectural masterpiece is shaped like a colossal chariot dedicated to Surya, the Sun God. The intricate stone carvings, depicting celestial beings, mythical creatures, and everyday life, is a breathtaking tapestry of artistry and storytelling.

The grandeur of the temple can be best experienced at dusk. As the sun dips below the horizon, the Konark Temple glows in a golden embrace, its carvings casting long, mystical shadows, while the evening breeze whispers through the ruins, carrying echoes of a timeless past. Presently, a team of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is inspecting the progress of sand removal from the Sun Temple, often regarded as one of the seven wonders of India. The assessment that was initiated in 2024 aims to help experts determine whether the sand, which was placed inside the temple’s assembly hall (Jagamohan) by the British more than 100 years ago to reinforce its stability, can now be safely removed.

The magnificent Konark Sun Temple receives on an average 5,000 to 10,000 visitors daily. Currently, the light and sound show depicting the history of the temple has been halted due to a technical issue. The timings of the temple are 6am to 6pm.

Odia Thali at Taj’s Vista Restaurant

Odia thali dished out at Vista restaurant at Taj Puri Resort Spa in Puri , Odisha.
| Photo Credit:
K R DEEPAK

Food in Puri is a revelation, and no visit can be complete without indulging in an authentic Odia thali. However, finding a wholesome Odia thali can be a challenge in Puri, except in homes in the city. Taj Puri Resorts’ restaurant, Vista, bridges this gap by offering a lavish spread of traditional Odia delicacies, bringing the culinary heritage of the region to the table.

Curated by the hotel’s executive chef Biswarup Chatterjee, the thali is a symphony of flavours and textures. It includes dalma, a hearty lentil dish cooked with mixed vegetables and tempered with paanch phoron (mix of five spices), is both nourishing and subtly spiced. The mustard-infused chatu besara is a wild mushroom curry with a tangy punch, while the koshila saag, a stir-fried medley of leafy vegetables, melts in your mouth with its mild seasoning. The deep-fried brinjal fritters adds a crunchy contrast. The thali is served with rice and maacha jhola, fish curry cooked in mustard paste. The star of the meal is chhena poda, a caramelised cottage cheese dessert with a smoky aftertaste that lingers pleasantly.

The thali is available for lunch and dinner at the Taj’s Vista restaurant.

The Jagannath Temple

A view of Jagannath temple in Puri , Odisha.
| Photo Credit:
KR Deepak

One of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, the Jagannath Temple is a spiritual and cultural cornerstone of Puri. Dedicated to Lord Jagannath, this 12th Century temple is renowned for its grand annual Rath Yatra (chariot festival) and its Mahaprasad – holy food prepared in earthen pots over wood fire. The temple kitchen, said to be one of the largest in the world, prepares Mahaprasad daily, using a traditional technique passed down generations. Devotees often partake in this sacred meal, which includes khechedi (spiced rice and lentils), dalma, and various sweets, served on banana leaves.

One of the main offerings here is the khaja, a crispy, golden sweet made with layers of refined flour and dunked in sugar syrup. What makes Puri’s khaja special is the use of pure desi ghee, adding an aroma and flavour. Stalls near the Jagannath Temple such as Nrusingha Sweets serve this delicacy fresh and warm. Most sweet shops offer two variants of khaja – one made in oil and other in desi ghee. With each bite, the flaky outer layers crumble delicately, while the syrupy core bursts with a rich sweetness. The legacy of khaja-making in Puri dates back centuries, and its association with temple rituals makes it an integral part of the town’s food culture.

Raghurajpur heritage village

A view of the entrance of the Raghurajpur heritage village, known for Pattachitra and palm leaf engravings, in Puri district of Odisha.
| Photo Credit:
KR Deepak

About 30 kilometres from Puri is the Raghurajpur Heritage Village, a living canvas of art and tradition. This quaint hamlet is renowned for its centuries-old legacy of Pattachitra, intricate scroll paintings depicting mythological tales, deities, and folklore. Every home here is an artist’s workshop, where vibrant murals and paintings adorn walls, and skilled hands bring to life palm leaf engravings, stone and wood carvings, and traditional toys. Walking through its narrow lanes is like stepping into an open-air museum, where the air is thick with the scent of natural dyes and the rhythmic strokes of paintbrushes narrate stories of a bygone era.

A woman sits outside her house with crafts displayed on the verandah at Raghurajpur heritage village, known for Pattachitra and palm leaf engravings, in Puri district of Odisha.
| Photo Credit:
KR Deepak

The village is home to to several national award-winning artists who are part of the Raghurajpur Chitra Karigari Co-operative Society, an organisation dedicated to preserving these traditional art forms. Beyond its artistic charm, Raghurajpur is a testament to sustainable living, where craftsmanship is passed down generations, preserving Odisha’s rich cultural heritage. The villagers take immense pride in their work, welcoming visitors with warm smiles and a glimpse into their creative world. The best time to visit the village is from 8am till 6pm when visitors can watch the artistes create these art forms and purchase them.

Silver filigree

Silver jewellery displayed at a store in Puri , Odisha.
| Photo Credit:
KR Deepak

Back in Cuttack, Pankaj Kumar Sahoo, a silver filigree artist creates intricate designs by transforming silver balls into fine threads and pressing them with wires through a detailed, time-intensive process. He is one of the main suppliers of silver filigree (or Rupa Tarakasi that was granted a Geographical Indication tag) in New Kalinga Filigree store in Puri. The store is one of the oldest in the temple town now run by second generation entrepreneur Sayed Saif Ali, who took over the reins of New Kalinga Filigree founded by his father in 1982. “With growing awareness around the uniqueness of this art form, we’ve seen a noticeable rise in demand,” says Sayed.

Each filigree piece, whether an ornate necklace, a delicate brooch, or a miniature idol of Lord Jagannath, reflects the art form continued for generations.

The writer was in Puri on the invitation of Taj Puri Resort and Spa

​Purple Honeycreeper

The purple Honeycreeper (Cynaerpes Caeruleus) lives in the forest canopies as well as in the cocoa and citrus plantations of northern South America. Males are primarily bluish violet, with black accents on the wings, chins, throats, and bellies. The feathers of females are mainly lime green and yellowish, giving them a different appearance.