Posts in category: Life Style

It all began with an Instagram request in 2017—surprisingly, one that wasn’t ignored. “I never accept requests from strangers,” says Hridi Narang, founder of Guru Om Candles & Decor, who made an exception for singer-songwriter Anuv Jain. How millennial, for a singer whose music traces the modern-day complexities of dating. This digital connection, sparked by Jain’s song ‘Baarishein’, was a slow burn, taking five years to transform. Their platonic friendship evolved into love and culminated in a three-day wedding celebration this February.

Their first encounter was brief—a five-minute meeting at Jain’s Delhi show in February 2021—but it was a routine phone call in 2022 that changed everything. “When she shared, in passing, that she was single, I couldn’t have ignored that as I always found her beautiful,” Jain recalls. “I stopped everything else I was doing as this was my window to shoot my shot.” He surprised Narang with a spontaneous trip to Delhi for Valentine’s Day dinner, even bringing her a box of her favourite Kookie Jar boat pastry from Kolkata. Despite a series of comical mishaps—fully booked restaurants and a wrong pizza order—the date became a pivotal moment. “Even though it was like a very bad date, because we just couldn’t find a place to sit, we still had a great time,” Jain explains.

The immediate connection solidified their feelings. “We spoke about everything. And I was like, yes, this is the guy I want to be with,” Narang shares. The unplanned Valentine’s Day date, which extended into the 15th, became a significant marker in their relationship. “We were a bit poetic with that because that date was on the 14th of February. We didn’t plan a Valentine’s Day, but it just happened to be that day,” Jain adds. “So after three years, we kept it the same way. The 14th was for some of our functions and the 15th, we actually got married.”

The celebrations were intimate and personalised. “We wanted a close-knit and cosy wedding full of family and friends,” shares Narang. Working with Karma Events, as they designed each function with meticulous attention to detail.

Highlights from the mehendi function included carnival games like balloon shooting, ring toss and beer pong to add nostalgic touches from their childhood and early twenties. Narang chose a vibrant Mayyur Girotra fiery red gharara and teamed it with a traditional parandi, complementing the festive Punjab-meets-carnival theme. “We wanted each look to be completely different, yet authentic to us,” explains Narang. Jain opted for a cropped contemporary jacket by the same designer, layered over a sleek black kurta and pathani salwar.

Fashion mood boards took on two distinct approaches recently—ornate tradition and contemporary statements. Where stars like Kareena Kapoor Khan and Katrina Kaif turned to intricate craftsmanship for festive dressing, Kylie Jenner, Mindy Kaling, and Sydney Sweeney delivered black-tie glamour with standout red carpet moments.

Kareena Kapoor Khan knows how to borrow from bridal collections without stealing the spotlight. For her cousin Aadar Jain’s wedding, she skipped the expected lehenga in favour of a breezy inky-blue Sabyasachi kaftan from the designer’s 2023 ‘Heritage Bridal’ collection. The look, rooted in old-world craftsmanship featured botanical prints inspired by Sundarbans mangroves, gold zardozi panels, and subtle sequin detailing.

If you follow Katrina Kaif’s fashion trajectory, you know her penchant for pastels and saris—and her latest look was no exception. For the premiere of her husband Vicky Kaushal’s latest release, she draped herself in a whimsical Anita Dongre sari in powder blue, featuring delicate floral embroidery, subtle green sequin accents, and a scalloped pallu that added to its romantic appeal. Paired with a tonal blouse boasting a sweetheart neckline and tassel details when put together make for an effortless choice for bridesmaids or daytime weddings.

Small but mighty, the best eyeshadow sticks have a lot going for them: They’re easy to apply, versatile, beginner-friendly, and efficient. “What’s not to love about an eyeshadow stick?” says Mali Thomas, global artist in residence at Bobbi Brown Cosmetics.

While mastering a perfect cut crease or a multi-shadow smokey eye requires plenty of practice, eyeshadow sticks require no honed skills—nor any extra tools to achieve great results. Whether you’re a beauty novice or a seasoned expert, simply glide on your favorite eyeshadow stick, blend the edges with your finger, and go on with your day. Bobbi Brown’s global artistic director, Hannah Murray, agrees that eyeshadow sticks are ideal for portability. “They’re great on the go—no need for a makeup bag filled with eyeshadow palettes and brushes; just throw in a couple of sticks, and you’re all set,” Murray tells Vogue.

Even better, both beauty minimalists and maximalists can find suitable shades to incorporate in their routines. But both pros emphasize that there are no limits when it comes to experimenting with eyeshadow sticks. With no hard and fast rules, anyone should feel free to explore different colors and pigments. On one hand, you can select an eyeshadow stick based on your skin tone or eye color. “For example, if you have warm, rich undertones, I recommend using bronze and gold shades. For someone with green eyes, I prefer shades that contrast, like pink, purple, or brown,” Thomas says. Alternatively, you can pick up a few shades for different occasions. Murray suggests shimmering shades for those looking to update their makeup bag, as they can offer a subtle glisten during the day and be intensified for a smokey eye at night. (Another pro tip from Murray: “Use them to create a base for other eyeshadows and pigments, as a wash of color on the eyelid, or to line the eyes and smudge for more drama.”)

In preparation for all the makeup looks ahead, read on to discover the best eyeshadow sticks to upgrade your makeup bag.

Best Long-Wear: Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick

Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick

• Why We Love It: Both of our experts reveal their penchant for Bobbi Brown’s stick. “These sticks have saved my makeup looks in a time crunch on many occasions,” Thomas admits. They’re special to Murray for their “variety of textures—matte, shimmer, and multichrome, giving you the versatility of creating many different looks.” Shades Cinnamon, Mica, Golden Bronze, Forest, and Moonlight are a few of their favorites.
• Number of Shades: 27
• Finishes: Matte, Shimmer
• Best For: Those seeking a fail-proof eyeshadow stick option, with a creamy, easily blended texture in various finishes.

Best Multi-Use: Chanel Stylo Ombre Et Contour

• Why We Love It: Part eyeshadow, part eyeliner, part khôl, this Chanel pick has all your eye-makeup needs covered. Creamy and blendable, this eyeshadow stick tip is just the right size for smooth application of fine lines or entire lid shading.
• Number of Shades: 10
• Finishes: Matte, shimmer
• Best For: Those who like to make the most of their beauty products—use this stick all over lids as an eyeshadow or as an eyeliner alone.

Best Waterproof: Ilia Eye Stylus

• Why We Love It: Ilia’s highly anticipated waterproof eyeshadow stick launch has finally graced us with its presence—and Vogue’s beauty commerce writer Conçetta Ciarlo got a sneak peek before it hit stores. Swatching all shades on her left hand, she was instantly impressed with its color payoff—and eventually its staying power. “Without any eyeshadow primer, the various colors on my hand stayed put, not transferring onto clothes or fading away as I washed my hands throughout the day” she says. When it comes to application, the slanted tip allows for a precise application that can be easily buffed out.
• Number of Shades: 20
• Finishes: Shimmer, matte
• Best For: Long-lasting eye looks with minimal touchups are possible (with a special bonus for those who seek out clean, cruelty-free beauty).

Best Vibrancy: Victoria Beckham Beauty Eyewear

$34

VICTORIA BECKHAM BEAUTY

• Why We Love It: Available in seven vibrant colors, Victoria Beckham’s clean, creamy pigment glides effortlessly and even boasts crease- and waterproof wear for up to eight hours.
• Number of Shades: 10
• Finishes: Matte, shimmer
• Best For: Whether you’re looking for a dash of color (yes, there are blue and mustard options) or a neutral smokey eye—the vibrancy and color payoff of Victoria Beckham Beauty’s eyeshadow sticks makes each color truly pop.

Best Transfer-Proof: Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Shadow

• Why We Love It: Laura Mercier’s eyeshadow stick is a classic for a reason: It’s a seamless, multitasking formula that imparts rich pigment wherever you place it. Though it’s transfer-proof and crease-resistant, the formula blends with ease for a soft wash of color or an in-depth look.
• Number of Shades: 19
• Finishes: Shimmer
• Best For: Look no further than Laura Mercier’s eyeshadow stick for anyone who loves a subtle shimmer—nothing too sparkly, just an elegant pearly shimmer that won’t budge.

Best for 5-Minute Makeup Routines: Charlotte Tilbury Easy Eye Wand

Easy Eye Wand

Charlotte Tilbury
₹ 2,000.00

• Why We Love It: Charlotte Tilbury’s Easy Eye Wand is designed for quick, single-shadow eye looks, requiring minimal effort for maximum reward. Whether you prefer a matte or shimmery shade, the rounded product tip glides on easy thanks to the velvety texture formulated with jojoba oil and silica. Simply swipe on, and blur out the edges with your finger.
• Number of Shades: 5
• Finishes: Matte, metallic
• Best For: Makeup novices or minimalists looking to elevate their eye look with little effort.

Best Bold Colors: Urban Decay 24/7 Shadow Stick

• Why We Love It: Ready to sport bold eyeshadow colors this year? Whether it’s a bright cobalt blue or shimmering lime green, Urban Decay offers an array of high-pigment hues designed to resist fading and smudging.
• Number of Shades: 14
• Finishes: Matte, shimmer
• Best For: Adventurous beauty enthusiasts who like to experiment with bold colors and Euphoria-esque makeup techniques.

Best for Precision Highlight: By Terry Ombre Blackstar Eyeshadow

Ombre Blackstar Eyeshadow

• Why We Love It: Those with a penchant for an inner corner highlight should look no further than this By Terry pick. The buildable formula is infused with Tahitian black pearl extract, which has smoothing and light-reflecting properties great for the delicate skin around the eyes.
• Number of Shades: 11
• Finishes: Matte, shimmer
• Best For: Anyone looking to add a bit of shimmer to their inner corner with precision. Gone are the days of finding the perfect tiny brush to just a dot of highlighter to your inner corner—this shadow stick will do the trick.

Best for Undone Smokey Eyes: Glossier Shadow Stick

• Why We Love It: Glossier has mastered the art of the soft glam, so you never have to fear looking overdone when applying their color cosmetics. In the eyeshadow category, their chubby stick comes in five natural-tone shades—all of which help you achieve that effortlessly undone, cool-girl smokey eye. The water- and transfer-resistant formula also features vitamin E acetate and dimethicone to ensure a snag-free application by creating nice slip. The end result? A hint of shine without going full-on glitzy shimmer.
• Number of Shades: 5
• Finishes: Pearlescent
• Best For: Easy-to-accomplish smokey eyes, inspired by ultra cool-girl, undone makeup (hello, O.G. Gossip Girl!).

Best Neutrals: NARS Total Seduction Eyeshadow Stick

Total Seduction Eyeshadow Stick

• Why We Love It: Do you love a neutral eyeshadow look? NARS has you covered, with shades ranging from a milky white to rich espresso. This eyeshadow stick boasts up to 16 hours of wear of vibrant, buildable color payoff. Use them alone for a minimalist, single-shade look or go full-on Monica Bellucci by combining various tones for a bombshell dark eye.
• Number of Shades: 8
• Finishes: Matte
• Best For: Makeup lovers who want no-nonsense neutral eye looks with shimmer-free finishes.

What is an eyeshadow stick?

Professional makeup artist Colby Smith encourages us to think of eyeshadow sticks as cream shadows in pencil form. “It’s essentially a jumbo eyeliner,” Smith says.

This seven-member boy band has taken the world by storm and are definitely the biggest name in K-pop. BTS have performed sell-out arena shows across the US and UK, have achieved two No. 1 albums in the US, boast 16 million monthly listeners on Spotify, have sold 16 million albums (Map of Soul is the best-selling album in Korean history), and were the best-selling artist to debut in the 2010s. According to the IFPI’s Global Artist Chart, BTS were the second best-selling artists of 2018 (behind Drake), as well as the only non-English speaking artist to enter the chart. The seven members are rappers Suga, RM and J-hope, and vocalists Jimin, V, Jin and Jungkook.

In August 2020, BTS released the track ‘Dynamite’, their first song entirely in English, which topped the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart and stayed there for three whole weeks. It was the band’s first No.1 single in the US and made BTS the first all-South Korean act to top the Hot 100. Shortly after, they became the first K-pop musicians to receive a Grammy nomination, with ‘Dynamite’ up for ‘Best Pop Duo/Group Performance’.

Fast forward to the 2021 American Music Awards, and the group has received their biggest accolade to date, winning Artist of the Year (the biggest award of the night) and making history as the first Asian act to win the category. Oh, and they also took home the gong for Favourite Pop Duo or Group for the third year in a row, plus an extra win with their track ‘Butter’ winning Favourite Pop Song.

In October 2022, their Korean management company confirmed they would start their country’s mandatory military service, and they aim to reconvene as a group in 2025.

If you’re still in the chilly North of India, then this rustic jacket by couturier Ritu Kumar will never go out of style. The actor styled a trench-like cape with an additional embellished open blazer on top of each other. The elongated ‘Y’ shaped necklace in a variety of stones draws attention to the plunging neckline. This look is for your inner maximalist.

Red outfit by Arpita Mehta

Debunking the notion that red is primarily a bridal colour, this offering by Arpita Mehta caters to every wedding attendee. Doused in sequins, the structure of the ensemble accentuates the curves of its wearer and allows movement on the dance floor. You can add the diamond choker if you’re feeling extra, too.

Corset and pants by Kresha Bajaj

Corset tops have every celebrity’s vote this festive and wedding season and it’s a much-welcomed addition to the ceremonial lookbook. This corset top has a three-dimensional appearance owing to its layered sequins and embellished gunmetal feathers that are brought together with a halter neckline. At the same time, the refreshing front slit moves beyond the typical cinched waist structure of corsets. Archive this look for the next cocktail party you attend.

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Weddings are all about love, joy, and creating memories that last a lifetime. As a groom, one of the most significant decisions you’ll make for your big day is choosing your Sherwani for Men. The Sherwani for Groom is no ordinary outfit. It represents your style and your culture, and most importantly, it sets the tone for your wedding day. But, when it comes to picking the perfect colour, things can get a bit tricky. There’s a sea of shades to choose from—each with its flair and statement.

At Nihal Fashions, we understand that selecting the right colour for your sherwani is more than just about aesthetics; it’s about reflecting your personality, complementing the bride’s attire, and making sure you look your absolute best. So, let’s dive into the ultimate groom’s guide to choosing the right colour for your sherwani.

1. Classic White or Ivory Sherwani: Timeless and Elegant

When in doubt, you can never go wrong with a classic white or ivory Sherwani for Groom. These colours are timeless and exude sophistication. White or ivory sherwanis are a symbol of purity, grace, and elegance. They make for the perfect choice for grooms looking for a traditional yet contemporary look.

Opt for delicate embroidery in gold, silver, or even muted tones to keep the ensemble looking fresh and not too plain. White sherwanis also have a versatility that allows them to be styled for different types of weddings, from the most traditional to modern affairs. Whether you’re having a royal wedding or a beach ceremony, this colour never fails to impress.

Tip: Pair it with a soft-toned turban or a contrasting stole to add a pop of colour and make the look more dynamic.

2. Royal Gold or Beige: Luxurious and Regal

For grooms who want to channel their inner royalty, gold or beige is a perfect choice. These colours scream luxury, opulence, and sophistication. Sherwanis for men in shades of gold or beige work beautifully for grand weddings. The rich texture of the fabric combined with the golden hues enhances the groom’s appearance, making him the true king of the day.

Gold-coloured sherwanis come in various shades—ranging from bright yellow gold to muted matte finishes. It’s up to you to choose the tone that best matches your skin tone and the overall theme of your wedding. Beige, on the other hand, is a more neutral option that pairs perfectly with intricate gold or silver embroidery for a clean, refined look.

Tip: For a more modern touch, you can add a contemporary twist with a matching kurta or churidar underneath the sherwani. Pair this outfit with elegant juttis or brogues to complete the look.

3. Bold Red or Maroon: The Traditional Groom’s Choice

When it comes to wedding outfits, nothing says “traditional groom” quite like red or maroon. These colours are an embodiment of passion, love, and celebration. Sherwani for Groom in rich, deep shades of red and maroon are symbolic of vitality and strength, making them perfect for a groom who wants to make a bold statement on his wedding day.

Both maroon and red are versatile enough to work for both day and evening weddings. Maroon is slightly muted, offering a regal yet understated vibe, while red is more vibrant and energetic. When combined with gold, silver, or ivory embroidery, these colours pop beautifully and create a perfect harmony of tradition and elegance.

Tip: If you’re not comfortable with a full red or maroon ensemble, try incorporating these colours in accents like your dupatta or pocket square for a subtle touch of boldness.

4. Soft Pastels: For the Gentle and Modern Groom

Gone are the days when grooms were restricted to traditional reds, golds, and whites. In recent years, pastel-coloured sherwanis for men have gained a lot of popularity. Soft hues like mint green, baby blue, light pink, and peach bring a refreshing and contemporary vibe to the wedding attire, offering a perfect balance of style and elegance.

Pastels are ideal for outdoor weddings or beachside ceremonies, as they complement the natural surroundings while making the groom look effortlessly chic. If you’re looking for something a little different but still want to stay on the traditional side, pastels are the way to go.

Tip: Pastels pair well with subtle embroidery, especially in silver or white, to keep the look light and airy. Consider adding a floral or geometric print for a modern edge.

5. Navy Blue or Dark Blue: A Contemporary Twist on Tradition

Navy blue and dark blue sherwanis are rapidly becoming the go-to choice for grooms who want something modern yet rooted in tradition. These shades are bold but not overwhelming, offering a refreshing take on classic wedding attire. Navy blue is often associated with confidence, intelligence, and style, making it a perfect fit for a groom who wants to shine without being too flashy.

Sherwani for Groom in dark blue hues look incredibly sleek and sophisticated, especially when paired with silver or gold accents. Navy is also versatile, and it looks just as striking in a day ceremony as it does in an evening event. It’s a colour that stands out without stealing the spotlight from the bride.

Tip: Go for a double-breasted sherwani or add a patterned stole to enhance the overall look and give it a touch of flair.

6. Black Sherwani: Bold, Modern, and Timeless

Although black isn’t a traditional wedding colour in many cultures, it has gained significant popularity in modern weddings, especially for grooms. A black Sherwani for Men is sleek, stylish, and effortlessly chic. This colour makes a statement—perfect for grooms who aren’t afraid to embrace modern trends.

A black sherwani paired with metallic or contrasting embroidery can exude sophistication, adding a contemporary twist to your wedding. Black is timeless, easy to accessorize, and undeniably sharp.

Tip: Pair a black sherwani with a matching black turban or an ivory one to create an intriguing contrast. Finish with statement jewellery to add a royal touch.

7. Emerald Green: A Bold and Luxurious Choice

Emerald green is a stunning colour that’s rapidly gaining traction in weddings. It combines the richness of traditional colours like gold and maroon with the boldness of modern fashion. The colour exudes elegance, and its deep shade looks incredibly regal and fresh. Sherwanis for groom in emerald green is ideal for evening weddings or celebrations held in grand venues.

This colour is rich in symbolism, representing renewal and hope, making it an excellent choice for your wedding day. Pair it with gold or cream embroidery for a dynamic and eye-catching look.

Tip: If you’re looking to go all out, try incorporating emerald accents in your wedding accessories like your shoes or pocket square to keep the theme consistent.

8. How to Coordinate with Your Bride

Choosing the right Sherwani for Groom colour also means considering how it complements your bride’s outfit. If your bride is wearing a traditional red or maroon lehenga, a neutral-coloured sherwani like beige or gold can provide a striking contrast. Alternatively, if she’s opting for a pastel-themed outfit, you can choose a pastel-coloured sherwani for a cohesive look.

Tip: Talk to your bride and wedding planner to ensure your colours complement each other. You don’t want your outfit to outshine hers, but you still want to look coordinated and stylish.

Conclusion

Choosing the right colour for your Sherwani for Groom is a significant decision that will define your wedding day look. From classic whites and ivories to bold maroons and modern pastels, there’s a world of colour options waiting for you. The key is to stay true to your style, coordinate with your bride, and most importantly, feel confident and comfortable in your choice.At Nihal Fashions, we have a wide range of beautiful Indian Outfits that cater to every groom’s taste. Whether you’re looking for something traditional, modern, or somewhere in between, we’ve got you covered. Visit us today and discover the perfect sherwani that will make you look and feel your best on your special day!

Aside from these ingredients, there are a few other factors we recommend looking into to inform your choice of multivitamin. First is age or life stage. For example, older women might turn to options labeled 50+, while someone who is looking to conceive may want a prenatal vitamin. The supplement’s supplement type and size, certifications (third-party evaluations, like NSF or USP, of the efficacy of the particular formula), and dosage are also helpful considerations. When selecting the best for you, it’s important to not only heed the advice of your health services provider, but to think about how the supplement will fit into your daily routine—especially if you’re looking to pair it with probiotics or other ingestible.

Should women take multivitamins daily?

According to Shah, it’s not essential to take multivitamins daily if you maintain a balanced, varied diet rich in whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Supplements can’t fully replicate the spectrum of nutrients available from these sources. She continues that most health organizations recommend focusing on obtaining nutrients from food rather than supplements. “To make an informed decision, always consult a healthcare provider to determine if a daily multivitamin is necessary for your health requirements and dietary patterns,” says Shah.

Do multivitamins really work?

Shah explains that daily multivitamins may not provide significant health benefits for most healthy women with a balanced, varied diet. A comprehensive review by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, analyzing 84 vitamin and mineral supplement trials, concluded that taking a multivitamin provides little to no benefit in preventing chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. She explains that if a deficiency in a specific vitamin or mineral, such as vitamin D, B12, or iron, is found, a healthcare provider will likely recommend taking a single supplement rather than a multivitamin.

It’s also important to note that “A one-size-fits-all daily multivitamin may not be the best solution for everyone, as women’s nutritional needs vary significantly based on specific life stages, health conditions, dietary habits, and lifestyle factors,” adds Shah.

What is the best time to take multivitamins?

Shah explains that the best time to take multivitamins depends on several factors, including the types of vitamins and minerals included and potential interactions with medications. Multivitamins often contain both water- and fat-soluble vitamins. She recommends taking multivitamins with food to aid absorption and reduce the risk of stomach upset or other side effects, as this approach helps your body utilize the nutrients more effectively.

Fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins D, A, E, and K, are best absorbed with a meal containing fats; even small amounts of yogurt or low-fat milk can enhance absorption. Water-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin B12 and vitamin C, are best taken on an empty stomach with a glass of water, and taking vitamin B12 in the morning can help avoid potential sleep disturbances. Additionally, taking your multivitamins at the same time each day can help establish a routine. “It’s also important to drink plenty of water when taking your multivitamin to help with digestion and absorption,” she adds.

This story first appeared on Vogue.com

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If you were born between 19 February and 20 March, you have undeniable Pisces traits. Ruled by both Jupiter and Neptune, you are very sensitive and your strong emotions are always pushing you to realise different sides of yourself. You find fulfilment through helping people and forming stronger bonds with others, but you may have to remember to protect your own energy from time to time. Some of your best personal growth comes when you take moments to be by yourself.

Below, 10 Pisces traits that will make you go “That’s so me”.

You probably need a lot of alone time

You are more of an introvert, and participating in huge group outings may often feel very draining or overwhelming for you. Even if you like hanging out with friends, there may be a time limit on how long you can stay out. You may need to periodically be alone in order to recharge your batteries and feel refreshed.

You want to marry someone after going on one date with them

When you like someone, you probably build up a romantic fantasy in your head about the relationship. You could often find yourself imagining a future with someone before you really even get to know them. It’s important that you approach dating more realistically and stay aware of any red flags the other person is showing you.

You easily absorb other people’s energy

You tend to pick up on the general mood around you, and you may be able to sense when someone is having an off day or is feeling down. Whatever atmosphere you find yourself in probably affects you a lot more than it does for others. Sometimes you may even find it hard to differentiate between what are someone else’s emotions versus what are your own.

You have a creative side

You appreciate art and beauty, and you probably like to dress well or spend time carefully decorating your home. You might also be full of creative ideas or have some type of artistic hobby which you can turn to in order to blow off steam. You may naturally be able to express your emotions through creative writing, artistic works or music. 

You love to talk about spiritual and mystical subjects

You might be the person in your friend group who knows the most about topics like astrology, psychics or tarot. You’re very interested in understanding how your life is tied in with bigger-picture themes. You also enjoy diving deeper into subjects that help explain your own personality traits in order to have greater self-awareness.

You’re very compassionate and caring, which is sometimes your downfall

You give a lot of your energy away to others, and you might always want to make sure everyone else is doing okay without checking in on yourself. You may give and give to someone, only to realise later that they weren’t worthy of all of your attention. You may have to learn how to set boundaries and say no sometimes.

You’re very sensitive

You are probably the first person to cry during a romantic movie, or you could just tear up randomly about almost anything. You find even the littlest gestures very touching. Keeping your feelings all bottled up might be difficult for you because your emotions can be a little overwhelming.

You have a strong intuition

You may often get an initial gut instinct about certain people or situations, which is hard to ignore. You’re able to just sense things, especially when someone or something feels off. You may make your most important decisions based on what your emotions are telling you, even if you can’t fully explain why you feel that way. 

You love forming deeper connections

You like to have conversations with people, where you’re fully opening up to each other and talking about your emotions or past experiences. Especially when you’re in a relationship, you want to feel completely connected to the other person. You can’t really relate to someone when that emotional depth isn’t there.

Your work may involve helping other people

There may be an element of your job where you’re giving advice to others and helping them through their problems. You’re a natural healer, and it’s easy for you to make people feel comfortable. Even if these factors aren’t a part of your day-to-day work, you may still like to do community service projects on the side.

This article first appeared on Vogue.co.uk

Indu Khatri knows that if a woman wishes to enjoy some downtime, it’s a long time before she can kick back and relax. “A man lives his life freely because he does so on his terms. A woman has to listen to her father, brother and husband, never to herself,” she says, as we sip tea from little kulhads at Palak Beauty Parlour, tucked away on the first floor of a three-storey residential building in Varanasi. “As working women, we need to have the freedom to wake up at nine in the morning if we want to and not cook if we don’t want to. Left to our own devices, our husbands and in-laws will never want us to step out.”

She is accompanied by her elder sister-in-law, Rekha Khatri, who is getting her eyebrows threaded two feet away from us. Less than 24 hours ago, Indu lost her other sister-in-law to a sudden cardiac arrest. Before I spoke to her, the owner of Palak Beauty Parlour, Savita Singh, informed me that “Indu-ji is sad behind the smiling face.”

Indu shares what she feels about working women in north India because she is one. After seven years of visiting Palak Beauty Parlour as a customer and bonding with Singh, they recently pooled a lifetime of personal savings to open a second parlour together. “Seven years ago, I started my journey in the guest room of my in-laws’ house in Varanasi with a mirror propped against the wall and a small plastic chair,” Singh says. “Whenever we had guests, we’d request them to adjust in the other bedroom. My husband insisted that my little beauty parlour set-up not be disturbed.

Photographed by Keerthana Kunnath