A ROYAL CHOICE | Her Highness Rajmata Padmini Devi of Jaipur at Rukhmani
In their modest showroom in Civil Lines in Jaipur, Vineeta Singh, Sunita Panwar and Bindu Chandela keep themselves busy by weaving unique sartorial splendours. Recently, Nita Ambani, the better half of business tycoon Mukesh Ambani, came calling on them to sample their treasured masterpieces.
A georgette shawl bought by Neeta Ambani
“Mrs Ambani picked up a Rs 68,000 shawl made of georgette and chiffons,” says Vineeta. “It took us around six months to create the shawl since the work on it was very delicate.”
Vineeta, Sunita and Bindu, all siblings, are exponents of chiffon sarees and wedding trousseau. They are founders of Rukhmani, where, interestingly, the who’s who of the country drop in more than often to buy something unique—something they wouldn’t necessarily get in a run-of-the-mill luxury store.
“It started as a hobby and still is,” Bindu says. “We have never thought of expanding. We are quite happy with just one store. People from all over the world come here though we have never advertised.”
The store is named after their grandmother Rukhmani. Its clientele includes some very loyal customers such as Princess Diya Kumari of Jaipur, Rajyashree Kumari Bikaner and Yuvrani Chitrangada of Kashmir, as well as Bollywood residents Kangana Ranaut and Zarine Khan.
Demand soars during the wedding season. Customers prefer buying heavy pieces for weddings and receptions. “People like us for our bridal wear. They love our made-to-order Poshaks (a Rajathani outfit). Traditional designs such as peacocks, birds and paisleys are most popular,” Vineeta says.
Late M. F. Husain visited Rukhmani store years back to order a saree for his film, Meenakshi
Each made-to-order Poshak takes around three months to complete. Some of them are made from pure gold and silver threads on satin, tissue and silk.
In summers, people prefer shaded chiffons in pastels with delicate work on them. Small motifs, Zardozi and sequin work are quite popular for casual occasions.
Rukhmani owes its birth to a salesman in Johri Bazaar, the sisters say. “Whenever there would be a wedding in the family, our relatives would take Vineeta along for selecting their trousseau. She would go to Ranas in Johri Bazaar every second month to shop for our relatives. One day, a salesman asked her why she doesn’t start creating her own designs,” says Chandela.
Bindu, Sunita and Vineeta started selling sarees from their home in 1996. “We were neighbours and our husbands were in the travel business, so we thought of doing something together. Our first saree was bought by Mrs Dutt, wife of the erstwhile principal of Mayo College, Ajmer,” says Bindu.
Rukhmani founders, Vineeta (first from left), Bindu (third from right) and Sunita (second from right) at a family wedding, wearing Rukhmani Poshaks
It was the word-of-mouth publicity that helped the sisters create a brand and in just two years they managed to open a store in Jaipur. “Today, owning a Rukhmani saree is a status symbol in the Rajput gharanas,” she says.
Rukhmani’s beautiful designs are inspired by paintings and flowers. Traditional designs such as peacocks, birds and paisleys are the most popular.
Rukhmani has 20 craftsmen at present. While they talk about their own favorites, the sisters say that they love working on tissue and a lot of colour combinations. Red and gold are their favourites. But sometimes, they prefer three different colours for lehnga, blouse and odhni.
Vinita’s beautiful designs are inspired by paintings and flowers. “I have been travelling a lot since my childhood. I get to see a lot of things which draw my attention to the finer details,” she says.
For the sisters, real luxury is in quality and craftsmanship. “That’s what we stand for,” says Chandela.
BIKERS’ BESPOKE | Leather jackets, Biker’s Black and Tan Rugged from The V Renaissance
The V Renaissance, bespoke art and luxury studio based out of New Delhi, showcased their couture leather collection in association with Indian Motor cycle at a fashion gala at The Indian Luxury Expo 2015 at DLF Emporio, New Delhi. The fashion show was a perfect blend of finesse and machismo that exuberated class and panache at every level. The models on the Indian Motorcycles sashayed on the ramp sporting classy leather jackets by The V Renaissance. The collection consisting of trench coats, leather jackets, biker jackets and helmets were showcased on the red carpet that kept the audience riveted.
DIVA IN LEATHER | Bomber’s trench coat paired with the Ms V Ebony tote
The V Renaissance studio is an amalgamation of all things creative and inspired, be it framed, or in furniture, in accessories or art, in pocket squares or new-age leather helmets. Designed, directed and created by a team led by Vipul Amar and Harsheen K. Arora, The V renaissance products are expressions of their patrons’ true self, crafted with care that signifies a truly luxe brand. Their leather creations, be it jackets or bags, are tailor-made and open to customisation varying from design, size, colour, length, leather, trimmings, belt, collar, pocket, button and lining. Attention to detail is the guiding principle which ensures that each final piece is created after the dummy prototype is also a perfect one. Every crease, seam, fold is put right in place on genuine leather of your choice before the piece gets the stamp of approval. Such meticulous approach only betters the quality of grade one, full grained imported leather which is used in their leather line which fashionistas and bikers swear by.
A WEEKEND OF ADVENTURE | Trip out in Baron’s No.3 jacket paired with the Illusionist Weekend Safari duffel
We have here Harsheen Arora, psychologist and Creative Director at TVR, sharing wish us some insights on TVR leather goods, what all sets them apart and how best you can team them to up the style quotient.
Read on:
How are your leather jackets created? What is their life cycle and what sets them apart from other bespoke leather brands?
The four step process to creating a one-off The V Renaissance leather jacket:
Inspiration | Vipul (artist) and Harsheen (psychologist) meet with the client and understand their needs, wants and personality. We start sketching.
Define | Once the sketches are defined and each little piece has been given its dimension, we start making the mock in Leatherite.
Resources | Once the mock is finalized we work on bringing together all the resources like the leather, accessories, embossing dyes and more.
Work | Once every detail of the jacket has been worked out we craft the final piece at The V Renaissance Atelier.
At The V Renaissance the personal sessions with the client are the most crucial. Here with Harsheen’s expertise as a psychologist, we make sure that the minutest details of the jackets reflect exactly who the client is and what s/he wants.
VIPUL AMAR & HARSHEEN ARORA | The creative duo propelling ahead The V Renaissance
What are the details that the consumer looks for in your leather jackets? What sort of detailing works best?
As we are a bespoke brand each client will look for details based on their needs. For instance, if we are designing a jacket for a biker/rider their needs and detailing will vary from someone who needs to make a fashion statement.
To give you some examples – we have had clients personalize the lining of their jacket with a photograph of who they are and their passions. We plan a photo-shoot with the client where Vipul shoots them while Harsheen speaks to them and brings out their true self in front of the camera.
There have been clients who want to customize their pockets for different articles they like to carry with them – lighter, pen, lip-gloss, phone and the like.Then there is the embossing of initials, names, tattoos.
We believe that every individual is unique and we try to do justice to their uniqueness while designing a jacket for them.
TWO TO TANGO | Brothers in arm, the Tango Gold and Red jackets with exquisite surface detailing
Which are the most expensive leather jackets in your collection?
The ready to buy collection ranges from fifty thousand to two lakh rupees.
The Rugged No. 5 is for One Lakh Forty Seven Thousand only. The leather used to make this jacket is imported from Italy and then especially treated with natural ingredients at The V Renaissance. The special feature of this leather is that it will change colour where it stretches and then goes back to the original. The more you wear it the better it gets.
How does one identify the traits that signify handmade leather goods of finest quality?
The quality and the kind of leather used, the stitching of the product, the accessories used, the design elements and the detailing of the product contribute to its quality quotient.
Tell us more about your range of bespoke leather goods for the trendy bikers?
Our Leatherhead collection is especially designed for the bikers. Here we have customized leather bags keeping the needs of a biker in mind.
Then there are the customized leather helmets. We have a ready to buy range or the biker can pick a helmet, give us their old one, show us their bike, we understand their biker personality and personalize their helmet with leather keeping all things in mind.
What are the accessories that go well with leather jackets for those who want to dress it up?
The kind of leather jacket and the occasion both will define the kind of accessories that can be used to dress it up.
For a rugged jacket one may accessorize using watches, wrist bands, boots, belt, junk jewelry.
For a classy formal look one may accessorize with scarves, hats, formal shoes, or high heels, fine jewelry.
MAESTRO AT WORK | Karl Lutchmayer working his magic on the grand Steinway
Nat King Cole, famous African-American jazz-pianist, had said, “When I perform it is like sitting down at my piano and telling fairy stories.” The association of something quint essentially romantic such as fairy stories with an instrument like the piano is no mean chance but an accepted part of popular culture. And to own a piano has taken on new meanings with the pianoforte holding its own as part of a sophisticated interiors scheme, and with a resident virtuoso to throw in, there is cultural nostalgia at its best.
IN DIALOGUE WITH THE PIANO | Marouan Benabdallah mesmerising the audience at Nostalgia
Speaking of nostalgia, there is New Delhi’s landmark hotel, The Imperial’s Classic European restaurant, Nostalgia at 1911 Brasserie, which also houses the unique Piano club on Steinway [the first of its kind to arrive in Delhi]. This concept restaurant is a one-off in Delhi for those who love their vintage European fare on fine china plates, and some good music to set it off with. The idea behind the Piano club at Nostalgia,is to give space to concerts and performances with unique artists promoting the live music heritage of the hotel. The evening in March 2013, when the Piano club was launched, saw an evocative piano recital by the noted Moroccan Hungarian Pianist, Marouan Benabdallah. Speaking on the occasion was Mr.Vijay Wanchoo, Sr. Executive Vice President and GM at The Imperial, who further outlined the purposeof The Piano club as the city’s very own site for “luxe and unique live concerts on Steinway” which will “put into form sit-down live concerts lending an ecstatic aura and matching the repertoire as well as the legacy of the hotel. Since the restaurant serves classic European recipes and is filled with the old world ambience, these one-of its-kind live concerts will surely make the experience larger than life.”
A VINTAGE AFFAIR | Classic European Buffet spread at Nostalgia, 1911 Brasserie
With the piano finding its celebrated spot in The Imperial’s elegant interiors, which speak of a grandeur that belonged to an age bygone, the piano in India has also seen a rise in the number of music enthusiasts, young and old, learning their ways around the instrument or just attending concerts featuring it. Delhi can’t be the only cultural capital of India, but sure is the halting ground for travelling artists and troupes who are eagerly awaited by the city’s eclectic crowd. What started in Italy in 1709 in the harpsichord maker, Bartolomeo Cristofori’s shop, has found its way to homes and hearts of the artistically inclined, with music conservatories and schools dedicating divisions to its study and dissemination, and piano clubs and societies taking it a notch closer to the discerning audiences. Among piano brands available in the market today, the one leading is Steinway & Sons, a time-honoured American German name in piano construction, is world-renowned for their grand and upright pianos of the highest quality favoured by musicians across the world. Having developed more than 125 patents, the company is considered to be the founder of modern piano construction and holds a royal warrant by appointment to Queen Elizabeth II. Each Steinway grand piano is a unique master piece produced from the best materials by the hands of craftsmen representing a legacy which started as long back as in 1853.
BLACK BEAUTY | A Steinway concert grand in all its regalia
Commemorating the 3rd anniversary of Nostalgia at 1911 Brasserie, the Piano clubwas stage to a bedazzling performance on the grand Steinway by Karl Lutchmayer- the world renowned conversational pianist. It was an evening of unabashed virtuosity which regaled the city’s music loversas the renowned concert pianist worked his magic recreating the scintillating pianism of Liszt to the vibrant rhythms of Bartók, the heroism of Chopin and the dazzling finger work of Ravel. Leaving the audiences hungry for more, the artfully attired pianist is a great addition to the artistic legacy of the Piano club where more such concerts are anticipated.
IN RAPTURES | A captivated audience at the Piano club
A Steinway Artist, Karl Lutchmayer performs across the globe, and also holds an academic professorship at Trinity College of Music, London. He is a regular guest lecturer at conservatoires around the world, including the Juilliard and Manhattan Schools in New York and the Mehli Mehta Foundation in India, his family home. With his works garnering critical acclaim and invitations coming for him to tour continents furthering the cause of piano & music, Karl Lutchmayer resides in London, where he indulges his other passion – classic cars – with a collection which includes a 1968 Triumph Spitfire, and his new pride and joy, a 1965 E-Type Jaguar.
PIANO CLUB | At The Imperial – Karl Lutchmayer performing on the Steinway at Nostalgia, 1911 Brasserie
Here we have the travelling piano guru answering a few essentials about the how, where and what of pianos for those who love to tune in right. Read on:
What is so special about the Steinway piano? What is the legacy that adds to the aura of owing a Steinway?
The Steinway is at the same time a part of history and the last word in innovation. When they were first created in the 19th century, their combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology put them decades ahead of the competition, and each succeeding decade Steinway has kept up with the latest technology, with more original patents than, I believe, any other instrument maker. And yet, at the same time, each instrument is a handmade, unique instrument. In today’s world how many items can you think of that are hand built and take a full year to make? For this reason to own a Steinway is to be part of an extraordinary family which includes all the finest concert halls in the world, and the finest concert artists who, for well over a century – from Liszt himself onwards – have chosen Steinway pianos as their medium of communication, their confidant and friend.
THE HEIRLOOM COLLECTION | Vintage Victorian Steinway Piano rebuilt and certified by the Steinway & Sons Factory
For piano enthusiasts and collectors, what are the other international brands to look at for buying? What are the places [in India and in cities abroad] where one can source/buy the best piano brands?
The other key brands in the market are Fazioli, Bluthner, Bechstein, Yamaha and Kawai. Each has its own unique sound and strengths, but none, so far, have managed to even begin to challenge the supremacy of the Steinway. Abroad, every capital city, and many others besides, has showrooms dedicated to these instruments, but perhaps New York and London have the widest choice. In India the first trip must inevitably be to Furtados (whether in Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Pune, Goa etc) who have the very widest selection of pianos, to suit all tastes and pockets. Yamaha and Kawai now also have showrooms in major cities, but you will not be able to try a selection of makes due to their single brand status, unlike at Furtados (who also sell Yamahas). However in the South I would also recommend Musee Musicale.
What are your expert tips on taking care of a piano besides showing it all the love?
In India it is essential to get the best advice about installing either a dehumidifier or a humidifier, depending on the local climactic conditions. In an ideal world, the temperature should be kept fairly constant, but obviously this is not always possible. More than this, a piano should be tuned 3-4 times a year, and depending on the amount of playing, will need a certain degree of servicing every 3-5 years. Other than that, please don’t put liquids anywhere near them – these are fine instruments, not coffee tables!
CHARISMA IN PERFORMANCE | The devotion to a piano is what makes it come alive
Being a professor, could you share your thoughts on how the piano is more than just an instrument, but also a symbol of romantic luxury?
The piano is the symbol of the romantic period. The idea that one person alone might sit and perform for people without any help from others (such as an orchestra) is the ideal of genius – one man stepping forward before others through God-given gifts, and, as importantly, the vision, tenacity and sheer hard work, to become an artist who mesmerizes an audience and takes them on journeys they could not have been imagined possible. Even the shape of the piano has been identified with romance – not the least in Hollywood where for about a hundred years, from Dangerous Moonlight, to Song Without End, the Fabulous Baker Brothers and even in Who Framed Roger Rabbit?, it stands as a symbol of hope and escape from everyday life. Indeed, a few years ago BMW asked Steinway to design the interiors of one of their cars, in order to create a kind of uber brand! However, once you have played a few pianos, the real luxury is simply in sitting down at a Steinway and knowing it will respond to your every thought and wish – whatever it might be!
DINE UNDER THE STARS | Al fresco seating at Kiyan, Dusit Devarana
The drive to Dusit Devarana New Delhi on NH8 is not so much an indicator of an entry into an uber luxury urban resort, but once you have arrived, and literally so, what lies beyond is a sight for city-sore eyes. Beautiful landscaped greens studded with a thousand mature trees, blending seamlessly with the tranquil water bodies criss-crossing 8 acres of lushness, with the romantically lit up resort rising in the middle greet you ceremoniously, once you are within the folds of this first Dusit hotel in Delhi.
Designed by Thai architect and interior designer, KhunLekBunnag, there is a running motif of the “five elements” in the hotel. There is the giant rotating pendulum on the staircase of the lobby, there are the lunar designs emerging from large cut-outs on the marble walls, and then there are little flower details everywhere.The genius of it also lies in how effectively the noise from the highway is cut off, and you’d notice the solid wall made of brass leaves as the first sound barrier.
The verandahs fringing the resort, the regal Isfahan pillars, high dome ceilings are all combined to create a modern yet inspired aesthetic. Ankur Bhatia, Executive Director of Bird Group which is in association with Thailand’s premier Dusit Hotels & Resorts, speaks of the uniquely designed resort where“The most interesting element is [Bunnag’s] three dimensional architecture in the dome area. It incorporates light and shadow plays, which changes hue as the day progresses.”
INTO URBAN LUXURY | Serene aesthetics inspired by nature motifs
The predominance of water in this man made oasis of calm is apparent in the 102-meter long temperature-controlled swimming pool while the stained glass of the lobby overlooks another shimmering pool. Even the pathway leading to the Spa is flanked by water bodies. To bring in the aspect of nature unbridled, there is a large pond next to the restaurant, which is said to be housing a family of ducks.And you have all of this in the middle of a city, or rather cities, given the resort’s convenient location midway from Delhi to Gurgaon.
LANDSCAPED LUSHNESS | A cocoon of calm close to the city
While the artistic touchpoints are not its only strong points, the resort has other reasons to justify it having won the Conde`Nast Traveller Reader’s Award 2014 for being the Favourite New Leisure Hotel in India. Inspired by the ‘garden in heaven, there is the Devarana Spa which is situated amidst serene water bodies and has outdoor treatment areas coupled with four indoor treatment suites with private verandahs. The wide range of therapies, trained therapists and the international ambience calling in the best of nature keep up the claim of a ‘high-end sanctuary experience’.
There is an extensive Spa menu with a la carte massages, body scrubs & wraps, facials and there are stand-outs therein, like the Signature Hammam which is long [75 minutes] and lavish with olive oil soap, Rhassoul clay and the precious Argan oil to finish. The other option for a complete face and body reboot is the Half Day Harmony which takes about 5 hours which starts with an aromatic Thai herbal steam, and goes to a floral bath, body scrub, massage, facial and foot reflexology.
DEVARANA SPA | Experience rejuvenation for the mind, body and soul
For the gourmet lovers, there is also Kiyan, the restaurant which calls out with its Isfahan columns, surrounding water bodies and zen-like ambience. The friendly and attentive staff is more than willing to tell you about the ‘world cuisine’ served with élan on beautifully turned out plates. With recipes from Europe, Far East and India, the kitchen uses only select organic vegetables, free range meats and imported ingredients.
There is a selection of new age wines, stock malts and cigars to keep the night going. And for a more food-focused outing to Dusit, think of going for the Sunday Champagne brunch where chef Nishant Choubey and team prepared a melange of appetizers like Lagan ki Boti, Cinnamon Tart, Robatta Chicken and, Cajun Spiced Fish Finger, prawn salad, Mushroom Yakito go with Mumm champagne. The cold cuts and dimsums platters are also tempting to try.
For the main course there are some robust Asian flavours to compete with European delights. The Massaman Curry and pan fried red snapper might stand out for who love their curries a bit sweet and their fish with the skin crispy.
A SANCTUARY OF BLISS | Experience it at the Dusit Devarana, New Delhi
The bar Iah is where you can take to after, should you be loath to bid the place goodbye. The bar’s red toned façade with dim lighting inside is where you will find time stopping, even as the huge windows overlooking the patio will keep you grounded enough. The bar’s mixologist is always happy to mix it your way or you can settle for the summery, breezy Tom Yum Mojito with lemongrass, basil and galangal awing you. The cheese platter is worth a nosh and the drinks are all the more innovative, so that you can sway in a mystical daze so induced by Dusit Devarana – the perfect in-city hideout.
PERFECT FUSION | Ghost Series II depicts traditional Rolls-Royce DNA in the elevated prow, large uninterrupted surfaces, long bonnet and short overhang
In essence, Ghost is a Rolls-Royce that meets its owner’s every need; an exquisitely appointed business tool for the business week and an engaging and effortless driving experience for leisure at the weekend.
A single defining principle came to characterise the Ghost design process – to harness the power of simplicity. In Ghost Series II, tradition blends perfectly with this bold, contemporary direction.
An uncompromising approach to materials and craftsmanship remained and traditional visual tenets were re-imagined to express the car’s modernity and dynamism. For example the stately presence of Phantom’s grille made way for a softer, less formal design – its subtle curvature more akin to a jet air-intake than traditional pantheon facia.
Flowing ‘yacht lines’ and powerful flanks hint at the car’s inherent dynamism, whilst traditional Rolls-Royce DNA is expressed in the elevated prow, large uninterrupted surfaces, long bonnet and short overhang.
Re-sculpted headlights, with unbroken daytime running lights framing a new, more dynamic shape, gives Ghost Series II a distinct visual signature from the front
The eye is immediately drawn towards the re-sculpted headlights, with unbroken daytime running lights framing a new, more dynamic shape, giving Ghost Series II a distinct visual signature from the front. This blends perfectly with revised surface treatments to the front of the car. A tapered ‘wake channel’ on the bonnet, emanating from the Spirit of Ecstasy’s wings, evokes the sight of a jet’s vapour trail, hinting at the car’s dynamism. Subtle re-sculpting of Ghost’s bumpers creates a stronger stance and a sense of extra width and height, whilst the contemporary aesthetic is further enhanced with the addition of chrome inserts to the front air intakes, which now feed more air cooling to the front brakes.
Electronically adjustable thigh supports for front seat passengers complement a new seat structure, enhancing Ghost’s interior comfort levels
One of Rolls-Royce’s defining visual signatures is given an enhanced dynamic edge. The famous waft line has be re-designed on Ghost Series II to lean further forwards – with a view to emphasising the car’s effortless dynamism.
Interior comfort and style are enhanced with re-designed seats. Electronically adjustable thigh supports for front seat passengers complement a new seat structure, enhancing Ghost’s interior comfort levels. A revised rear seat design ensures absolute comfort for those wishing to conduct business or simply relax. In ‘Lounge seat’ configuration, the seats are gently angled towards each other to create a more intimate setting, allowing passengers to communicate more easily.
The instrument dials and clock have also undergone subtle enhancements with individually applied polished metal chaplets around the dials
The seats are available with three-level heating as standard with optional massage function and can be reclined for comfort. Chrome surrounds to the sun visor lights and a new soft-feel dashboard treatment enhance the car’s premium tactility, whilst sumptuous natural grain leather can now be optionally extended to the A and C pillars.
The instrument dials and clock have also undergone subtle enhancements with individually applied polished metal chaplets around the dials evoking the precision design of hand-made, luxury wrist watches, whilst the matt chrome centres ‘float’ in the middle of each instrument.
Eighteen individually-tuned speakers, with both theatre and studio settings, deliver a pure ‘larger than live’ sensation
On opening the car’s coach doors, one is met with a calming, light and uncluttered space. Occupants can work, relax or simply enjoy the pleasure of driving in a cosseting, peaceful atmosphere, assure that they are fully connected to the outside world of business affairs through the car’s connectivity suite.
Eighteen individually-tuned speakers, with both theatre and studio settings, deliver a pure ‘larger than live’ sensation. Two bass speakers located in the boot complement seven speakers meticulously placed throughout the cabin. Two ‘exciter’ speakers in the roof-lining bring the sound to occupants’ ear level creating a completely unique listening sensation.
Re-designed front and rear struts married to new steering gear and adjusted dampers significantly increase Ghost Series II’s cornering ability
The system utilises a highly sensitive microphone to constantly monitor ambient exterior noise, subtly adjusting the volume and tone settings accordingly to ensure the system delivers consistent perfection. The technology complements this, with frequency and phase correction for individual speakers eliminating potential loud and dead spots caused by outside influences.
Re-designed front and rear struts married to new steering gear and adjusted dampers significantly increase Ghost Series II’s cornering ability, whilst enhanced feedback levels can be felt through a thicker steering wheel. In all specifications, ride quality and rear stability is further enhanced thanks to new rear hydraulic axle bearings.
FAIRY TALE | Celebrating life and possibilities
Many people spend more time in planning the wedding than they do in planning the marriage. Here’s where Q-Events proves helpful by taking care of wedding planning. The company has been a pioneer when it comes to arranging theme-based wedding events. The Luxe Café discusses pre-nuptial event planning with creative director, Geeta Samuel.
Most interesting concepts by Q events
Banaras Ghat as the wedding theme
The concept recreated the atmosphere of the “Ganga Aarti”. It included a stage for receiving the couple beside a 240 foot long water body, with candlelit Ghats leading into the “Ganges”. Three dimensional temple structures were designed, surrounding the venue with elevated lounges in the centre. The lounges were adorned with painted works of art on the ceiling reflecting the colours and spirituality associated with the city of Banaras.
The Royal Opera as the reception theme
The interiors consist of interweaving corridors, stairwells, alcoves and landing allowing the movement of large number of people and space for socialising.
In the last couple of years, the moneyed are splurging on making weddings an experience for themselves as well as their guests. The concept of theme wedding fits like hand in glove with the numerous rituals and functions that constitute an Indian marriage.
People keen on keeping it traditional are choosing themes like temple weddings and the flamboyant royal wedding. “Then there are those who are rather keen on fusion themes with the right mix of Indian traditions and western concepts. Vintage and chic weddings are also trending big time,” says Samuel.
People prefer Udaipur for its opulence, Jodhpur for its grandeur and Goa for its beaches. Among foreign locales, Bali and Thailand are the perennial favorites. European locales are also becoming popular.
Event planning — from conceptualisation to implementation — is usually a 40–60 day process. Structural design, accessorisation, floral designs and linen sourcing are among the key concerns. Detailed research and sampling are integral to the hosting of an event.
The cost of an event depends mostly on the design. Production of structures, artistic detailing and expanse of the venue decide the expenditure. Structures, flowers, fabric, materials, manpower and workmanship are the key factors.
HERITAGE & MODERNITY | For those whose luggage makes a style statement
The brand Hartmann was born in 1877 in the US. Its creator, Joseph Hartmann, wanted to build luggage that would be a symbol of excellence and provided lifelong guarantee for his products. The brand still reflects his vision and carries forwards his legacy. World’s most famous spy James Bond carried a Hartmann in Ian Fleming’s 1954 novel Live & Let Die. Halston and Gloria Vanderbilt have designed collections for Hartmann.
Hartmann promises intelligent functionality combined with luxurious elegance for the modern traveller, says Suresh Menon, CEO of Samsonite South Asia.
Hartmann has constantly introduced innovations to suit the varied demands of modern travel, while retaining the DNA of its longstanding heritage — quality and elegance. For example, the tweed belting collection was introduced in 1958 and is the hallmark of the Hartmann brand. In our current tweed collection, we retain the heritage details and craftsmanship of this classic favourite, such as the high-quality America-made tweed fabric, tanned leather trimming and original vintage styled handles. Yet, we have completely updated the bag. It has a durable, lightweight frame, smooth Himomoto wheels, and intelligent use of interiors such as separate suit hanger, travel pouches and technology pockets to ensure that packing is convenient.
Among the new lines, the latest 7R collection is a blend of modern engineering and elegance. It is the lightest and strongest luggage made by Hartmann till date.
The leathers must meet stringent quality standards. We use only full grain and top grain leather, which are of the highest quality. Full grain leather is untreated, showing the natural texture of the animal skin, while top grain leather has had one layer removed so it is thinner and suppler.
Intensity Belting luggage
The brand predominantly uses a classic, timeless and neutral palette in its leather collection, which includes rich black, chocolate, navy and tan. This allows buyers to pair the products with practically any dress in their wardrobe. Leather products are often accentuated with signature tan belting leather trimmings. Seasonal hues such as orange and sky blue are used for a refreshing pop of colour.
Hartmann India opened its first store at UB City Mall, Bengaluru in November 2014. Hartmann products are also available at the Samsonite Black Label stores at Palladium in Mumbai and the Mumbai International Airport.
KICK START | Classy protection which ensures you are safe not sorry
Alpinestars, a global leader in technical, high performance protection for motorcycle and auto racing, was founded in Asolo, Italy in 1963. The 2015 Formula One World Championship will see the Williams pit crew and drivers Felipe Massa, Valtteri Bottas, Susie Wolff and Alex Lynn sport suits, under layers, boots and gloves made by Alpinestars.
Dhoom and Hrithik Roshan may have re-ignited the craze for bikes in India but motorcycles are part of the macho culture the world over. The Luxe Café brings a selection of high-end products made by Alpinestars available in India for bikers.
Atem Leather Suit at Rs 1,17,000
One-piece leather suit offering class-leading protection for the street and track. It combines premium materials, safety features and ergonomic styling to give high levels of security and performance.
GP Pro Gloves at Rs 23,000
The sleek, ergonomic and lightweight GP Pro glove delivers high-performance protection along with comfort and flexibility.
Scala Rider G9X (Price on Request)
The bike-to-bike intercom has range of up to 1 mile. Its voice recognition and voice command technology is ideal for hands-free operation. Its mobile phone conference mode allows rider, passenger and outside caller to talk to each other. The music sharing mode lets the rider and passenger to listen to the same stereo music.
Celer Leather Jacket at Rs 45,000
With a MotoGP-derived, perforated back hump and Alpinestars Dynamic Flow Control zippered ventilation intakes, this aggressively styled, technical jacket offers street and track riders superb interior climate control. Its strategically placed stretch paneling gives the Celer a superior performance fit. This abrasion resistant jacket has a highly contoured fit and is comfortable to wear.
luxury-hideouts
Head for these hotels for a chilled out vacation with a touch of royalty
The Luxe Café brings you the pick of luxury hotels in the Abode of Kings aka Rajasthan. These oases of comfort –Ranvas, Amanbagh, Anopura, Shahpura Bagh, Sujan Palace, Mihirgarh and Raas — vary in shape, size and surroundings but have great experience as the common denominator. They ensure that the guests from all over the world enjoy the heritage, culture and culinary delights for which Rajasthan is famous. Their hospitality will always make you feel at home and you will bid them adieu with a twinge of nostalgia and silent promise to return one day.
The Haryana Hurricane tells The Luxe Café that, like his batting, he keeps it simple when it comes to what to wear, drive or eat. What’s in a name is his mantra and comfort is of prime importance for him. He has been the face of varying brands such as Palmolive and Rapidex but one of world’s greatest all-rounders is not a stickler for brands. His advice is to wear what you can carry, eat what you enjoy and choose a vehicle which is comfy instead of falling for the brand hype. His strategy is same that helped India win its first World Cup, don’t be afraid to experiment but do it wisely.
