All posts by : AyFa Collections

The co-production of imagery was made possible by a parallel revolution in print culture. Lithographic presses such as Calcutta Art Studio, Chore Bagan Art Studio, Chitrashala Press and The Raja Ravi Varma Press circulated religious prints, deities and mythological scenes across Indian homes, “which merchants co-opted to lend a quality of auspiciousness to their product.” These images were everywhere—not just on cloth but on matchboxes, bidi wrappers, cigarette cards and soap packaging. First, they became a tool of persuasion, and later, of nostalgia. By the early 20th century, even the iconography of India’s independence movement—flags, maps, Bharat Mata—began appearing on mill cloth, embedding nationalist symbolism into a product of colonial machinery.

The ongoing art show in Bengaluru brings this history vividly to life, drawing from a collection of more than 7,000 labels and related ephemera. “At one time in our not-so-recent history, these labels were everywhere, in markets and in homes,” Maurya says. “They’ve faded from public memory.” Over two years, the team digitised the collection and grouped the labels by imagery, intended use and emotional appeal.

The wedding day was set against the soft pink facade of the Palácio do Correío-Mor in Loures. The morning started with the traditional Tamil oonjal ceremony, which involved the couple being blessed by the married women of the family, in the estate’s French gardens. “We requested Raj’s family to sing their traditional wedding bhajans too,” says Vijay.

The bride chose a striking emerald green Banarasi sari by Anita Dongre for this event. “I’ve always been drawn to emerald green, as emerald is my birthstone. And the monotone allows the richness of the hue to stand out,” she adds. Vijay roped in the bridal stylist Suzaina Puri, with whom she worked for almost a year to produce six custom looks for her wedding events. A classic guttapusalu necklace and pieces of temple jewellery accentuated her ensemble. “Suzaina and I worked with a jeweller based in Delhi to customise the necklace to have an antique gold finish, so it would complement my sari better.” A stack of chunky gold cuffs, an antique choker, jhumkas and a nath completed the look.

Sitting at the wedding mandap, the bride created a core memory when the clouds cleared post-storm and the sun shone down upon them all. “Our guests opened their garden umbrellas and hand fans in unison, looking towards us with wide smiles,” she says. “Our pheras and saptapadi, or seven steps, were a blend of Gujarati and Tamilian ceremonies,” Vijay recalls. “We did four pheras (common in Gujarati ceremonies) and saptapadi, which is common to both.”

The couple also chose to have two mangal sutras to honour each other’s cultures: one sporting classic black beads on a gold chain while the other was a Tamilian thaal or gold pendant. For the wedding, Vijay pulled off another custom creation, this time by Anamika Khanna. The whimsical, ivory lehenga featured clusters of pearls, delicate rose gold zardozi embroidery and stone work, paired with an embroidered organza dupatta. A 10-foot embroidered veil added a theatrical element too.

After a whirlwind two days, the final stop was the romantic city of Sintra for the wedding reception. “Raj and I did the rumba to ‘Sway’ by Dean Martin, which is one of our favourite songs,” Vijay reminisces. The sweetest surprise, though, was an impromptu speech by her beau. “I decided to go off the cuff, aided by a bit of wine, and started my vows from where it all began,” he shares, referring to his speech: “It’s not every day a guy meets a girl that’s way out of his league, and eight years later is reading wedding vows to her in Portugal.”

Somatic work focuses on helping individuals become more aware of physical sensations in their bodies and connecting those sensations to emotional states. “It helps us track feelings in the body and understand what they’re trying to tell us,” Saeed says, noting that trauma survivors often disconnect from their bodies.

Parts work, in turn, draws from Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy and involves identifying different aspects of the self, such as wounded or protective parts, that can be healing or holding onto trauma. “It helps guide the client to connect with their ‘self,’ the calm, wise and confident part of themselves, rather than letting their trauma-driven parts take charge,” the social worker explains.

Finally, EMDR helps individuals process trauma by using rapid eye movements (or tapping) to reconnect fragmented memories and reshape negative beliefs. “It goes into our physiological systems and reprocesses memory patterns,” she says, adding that this method integrates both mind and body, which leads to more lasting change.

But it’s not just about formal therapy. Saeed recommends simple, accessible practices for anyone seeking to heal. “Start with joyful movement,” she suggests. Whether it’s dancing, yoga or a walk in nature, engaging in physical activities that bring joy can be incredibly grounding and restorative. “Don’t do movements you don’t enjoy,” she advises. “If running isn’t your thing, don’t force yourself to run. Do what feels good.”

Saeed also encourages individuals to explore their emotions through writing or creative expression, a practice that can create a safe space to process difficult feelings. Additionally, “talking about it” is one of the most powerful tools in breaking the silence and shame surrounding trauma. By sharing openly with trusted individuals, we can begin to dismantle the secrecy that often keeps intergenerational trauma alive.

Resources for further exploration

For those seeking to dive deeper into healing trauma, Saeed recommends three insightful books. The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk is a foundational text that explores how trauma is stored in the body and offers a comprehensive approach to healing, integrating neuroscience, psychology and personal stories. In addition, My Grandmother’s Hands by Resmaa Menakem provides body-based practices for trauma healing, particularly for people of colour, while But What Will People Say? by Sahaj Kaur Kohli offers a poignant exploration of the unique struggles faced by children of immigrants, along with practical guidance for healing. These books not only illuminate the nature of trauma but also provide valuable tools and action items you can do from the comfort of your own home.

At first, these actions might seem innocent (maybe flattering). The issue is that even the strongest connections usually don’t develop this quickly or intensely. So “it almost feels transactional,” she says—like you owe them something. And instead of being sweet or endearing, this behaviour comes off as smothering, inappropriate or suspicious.

2. They make you feel bad for spending time with anyone else

There’s something about seeing a close pal having a good time with others that can leave you feeling a little butthurt. But as Murphey points out, “You don’t want to be with or dominated by one person and only one person. You want to have other friendships and relationships as well.”

Otherwise, this jealousy can escalate into toxic behaviours, like guilt-tripping you for making plans that don’t include them. (“Do you really have to hang out with your partner? My weekend will be so boring without you!”) They might also overstep boundaries by demanding to know where you are at all times. (“Who are you with? Why didn’t you tell me?”) These behaviours aren’t just clingy; they’re controlling, experts agree—and a healthy friendship should never make you feel trapped or obligated to justify your time.

3. They’re pushing for labels or setting intense expectations

Just like how someone you’ve just started dating might push for commitment way too soon, a friend can do the same. In platonic relationships, love bombing might look like “demanding that you guys are best friends, especially when you’re not feeling that way,” Sbordone says. Or maybe they dive straight into deeply personal, potentially off-putting conversations about past traumas, say, or their rampant sex life—things that might be natural to discuss with a close bud. With someone you barely know or trust? It can be uncomfortable, inappropriate or overwhelming.

4. They’re copying your every move

It’s normal in a healthy, solid friendship to pick up on each other’s habits, slang and mannerisms without realising it. That’s just what happens when you spend a lot of time together.

But this kind of influence is gradual and, more importantly, organic—different from a person who’s almost trying to become you. Think “someone who dresses like you, talks like you, starts acting like you,” Murphey says. Maybe you’ve always been into indie music and thrifting—and suddenly your new friend who’s never shown interest before starts listening to your exact playlists and adopting your entire aesthetic down to the smallest details. Or they basically parrot your opinions: Even though they’ve discussed their own dream wedding, they suddenly switch to wanting a tropical celebration…just like yours.

When I first heard whispers about polka dots making a comeback, I was transported back to 2020 – much of which I spent bingeing season four of The Crown and getting lost in internet rankings of “Princess Diana’s Most Iconic ’80s Looks”, as Emma Corrin’s on-screen wardrobe seared itself into my Covid-addled brain.

Tim Graham/Getty Images

Tim Graham/Getty Images

Two years on from Gwyneth Paltrow’s legendary ski trial wardrobe, consumers are increasingly rejecting quiet luxury in favour of something louder and more decadent. As one friend told me recently: “It’s time to reject the oppressive nature of chic and embrace the chaotic hedonism of glam.” We are, it seems, entering the age of “boom boom” – a term coined by Sean Monahan to describe the return of unapologetic ’80s excess, a mood dripping in opulence and with a nihilistic slant. The fur-laden, power-shouldered aesthetic sits somewhere between American Psycho (minus the murders) and Lady Gaga’s “Beautiful, Dirty, Rich” video. The polka dot fits neatly into this new landscape, having appeared on runways everywhere from Fendi and Moschino to Isabel Marant.

Fendi autumn/winter 2025.

Victor VIRGILE/Getty Images

Fendi autumn/winter 2025.

Victor VIRGILE/Getty Images

In London, Conner Ives showed sheer slip dresses appliquéd with large tonal spots, while Bora Aksu leaned into the romance of it all via dotty dresses in layered tulle. Over at Moschino things were more in your face – think Mickey Mouse-inspired polka dot blazers and deconstructed slips – while the sheer polka dot skirt from Instagram fave Susa Musa has influencers in a chokehold. On the celebrity front, Dua Lipa has swiftly embraced the trend: she was recently spotted in a strapless pink Valentino spring/summer 2025 number that would have fit right in on a Chelsea dancefloor circa 1981.

Aditi Rao Hydari’s royal lineage is often mirrored through her occasion wear. She returns to heritage artistry and rich handlooms time and again. Then, there’s her soft spot for a classic six-yard, that’s become her staple for formal and festive occasions. Her collection is replete with saris of various styles, from classic Banarasi silks to wispy organza drapes. Most recently, when attending an award ceremony in Mumbai, she turned to a Raw Mango drape.

The jamuni purple satin silk sari is from Raw Mango’s ‘Garland’ Festive 2024 collection. Called the Gulkhera sari, it features a linear pattern of hand-embroidered zardozi in naqshi and metal sequins, reminiscent of the three-string garlands at the palla.

Her look was paired with the ‘Kadambai’ blouse in a complementing jamuni purple shade. The blouse, made using Varanasi silk brocade, imagined the jhol of mogra gajras as a scalloped jaal across the textile. She went all in with the timeless look by picking temple-style jhumkas from Indriya Jewels to accessorise along with soft dewy makeup and a loose braid for her beauty choices.

YOUR HEALTH REQUIRES YOUR ATTENTION. And your angels couldn’t get clearer about this, Scorpio. Be it mental, emotional, spiritual, physical or monetary health – pay attention to the signs being thrown your way. While a major block is being cleared and lifted, most likely from your past and even your subconscious memories of past lives, you are being encouraged to revive your connection with old, well meaning souls in your life. Treasure your relationships, especially those that have nothing to barter with you except love and kinship. This will restore your wellbeing and your happiness.

Cosmic tip: You are otherworldly but you are not alone.

More often than not, my holidays have been workations that blur the line between loving my job and switching off to come back recharged. Call it an occupational hazard of working in fashion but Paris, an It-destination for many honeymooners, has almost always been a work base for my bi-annual fashion week pilgrimage. Needless to say, the City of Love isn’t all that romantic when you’re running from pillar to post, typing notes while simultaneously dodging puddles to save your pristine ruby-red Sambas. Finally, in search of an actual break and on a mission to do nothing, I arrived at Pemako Punakha, a luxury retreat nestled in the lap of Bhutan, leaving all my appointments, schedules and itineraries at the reception.

The two-and-a-half-hour drive from Thimphu’s quaint airport to Punakha felt like I had travelled back to prehistoric times when nature reigned supreme. For someone who pays $12 for in-flight Wi-Fi, having zero network as the car I was in zig-zagged through misty valleys made the beginning of this adventure feel very wild. Lugging the black travel case that completed my airport look, I carefully crossed a suspension bridge over a gushing river—the only connection to the retreat tucked under the foliage on the other side of civilisation. A scene of David fleeing a bug in a wheat field from Schitt’s Creek came to mind, and I tamped down the thought.

Protein seems to be on everyone’s mind right now, not because of new findings or weird social media debates but because the more we take our health seriously, the more we are actively looking for ways to ensure we get enough of one of the most vital nutrients out there. “Influencers and wellness advocates have shed light on how protein impacts hormone health, energy levels, and recovery, sparking curiosity among a broader audience,” says registered dietitian nutritionist Lauren Manaker. “It is a very buzzy macro.”

Made of amino acids, protein is needed for repairing and building muscle, weight loss, immune support, hormone regulation, and other bodily functions. You can find it in animal sources, such as beef, chicken, fish, dairy, and eggs. It’s also in a lot of plant sources, like beans, legumes, and nuts. But when your diet might not be enough to get the sufficient amount of protein, that’s where liquid protein—in the form of shakes, protein powders, and more—comes in.

“Finding the time to plan and consume that much protein can be difficult,” says Samantha Dieras, RN, DCN, director of ambulatory nutrition services at Mount Sinai Hospital. “Companies are creating products, and people are developing recipes to help consumers more easily consume the amount of protein they desire.” So, if you’re looking to supplement your protein intake with these liquid options, consider the following:

Figure out your health goals

There are several options for protein shakes for you to choose from. The right one for you, says Manaker, is the one that best suits your personal health goals. “Looking to build muscle, manage weight, or simply ensure [you’re] meeting daily protein needs?” says Manaker. “This will help determine how much [you] need and in which form.”

You’ll also want to evaluate your overall diet and lifestyle. Manaker goes on to explain that if you’re already consuming a protein-rich diet, you probably won’t need much extra (or any) supplementation. Someone struggling to meet the right protein requirements can consider these options a convenient solution.

Not all protein shakes are the same

Manaker says that the results you get from protein shakes can vary depending on the source of the protein and how much you consume. “Different sources [of protein], such as whey, plant-based, or collagen proteins, offer varying levels of essential amino acids and nutrients, which can influence how effective they are in meeting individual goals,” she explains. “The quantity of protein consumed should be tailored to one’s specific dietary needs and activity levels [for best] results.”

Liquid collagen works when used properly

Will drinking collagen actually do anything for your skin? Dieras says collagen is often taken as a beauty supplement, with studies showing that it can keep skin firm and supple while also adding hydration. Adding this to a balanced diet, a regimented skincare routine, and an overall healthy lifestyle can do wonders for your skin.