Who would have thought that a leading Bollywood lady would don a bikini given the holier-than-thou and ultra-conservative setup of our society in the 60s- a time when even the vamp’s (dressed in a saree) viciousness had to be manifested by the rhythmic raising of her brows?
It took Sharmila Tagore a Filmfare shoot to mellow down the shame/discomfort in sporting one. A trailblazer in the truest sense of the word, she took everyone by storm when she sported a tow- piece on the cover of Filmfare. It was in 1967. Roughly, half a century later and we have B-town actresses sporting bikinis well relative ease 🙂 A great many of them not just sport it but in fact, sizzle in it compelling both men and women to drool uncontrollably. On that note, let us have a look at those B-town ladies who manage to set temperatures soaring with their bikini avatars.
1. DEEPIKA PADUKONE- Touted as the ‘Bollywood Actress with the Best Body’, it is no surprise that Deepika makes it to the list. Do I even need to expatiate a bit on why? Just look at her. Isn’t her body typically what we call “body goals”? Sculpted to perfection, chiselled with grace and carried with elan, Deepika raises temperatures with her bikini act.
2. LISA HAYDON- This towering lass who is a former model by profession, is blessed with luminous skin, well-defined features and a body to kill for. Naturally, it goes without saying that she carries off a bikini with sheer aplomb.
3. SAPNA PABBI- This Khamoshiyaan actress may look like a typical girl-next- door thanks to her effervescent and pert features, but transforms into a sultry, sizzling and sensual diva the moment she dons a bikini. We are left panting, Ms. Pabbi!
4. BIPASHA BASU- This Bengali bombshell sets the silver screen on fire with her bikini act EVERY TIME she makes an appearance in that two-piece. The sheer confidence she exudes is unparalleled. Didn’t we drool helplessly as she strutted down the beaches in Dhoom 2 and Players? Oh, yes we did.
5. NARGIS FAKHRI- Spare me a minute to compose myself. Those long, unending legs are droooool-worthy. This half Czech- half Pakistani leggy lass is a former model and carries off outfits with aplomb. Period. We had a little sneak-peek of her bikini avatar in Main Tera Hero’s song ‘Galat Baat’ but here is a full-blown visual of this smouldering lady who is sensuality incarnate.
6. ADITI RAO HYDARI- Cuteness is the epithet for Aditi any day. With a heart-warming smile, doe-shaped eyes and pert persona, Aditi resembles a typical girl next door but she magically turns into the seductive diva as she dons a bikini. That is one heck of a transformation but who’s complaining? 😀
7. LARA DUTTA- If there was anything remotely memorable about the movie- Blue, it has to be the visuals of the sultry and exotic Lara Dutta sauntering beaches and swaying underwater. Her sun-kissed skin added an exquisite touch to her bikini avatar. Sensual, exotic, sultry, mesmerising, captivating… keep the adjectives coming. It’s Miss Universe Lara Dutta after all!
Editor’s Note: Deepika Padukone in Cocktail and Bipasha Basu always are my favourites. I also like Priyanka Chopra in the gold bikini in Dostana, Shilpa Shetty in the same movie in the Shut Up and Bounce song.
Medimix Essential Herbs Ayurvedic Face Wash Review
What the Company claims: Medimix ayurvedic face wash gives your skin all day natural care and protection. The unique blend of turmeric, aloe vera and neem gently cleanses and rejuvenates skin. The divine herb lodhra reduces skin inflammation and improves complexion, kushtha and manjishtha helps in enhancing skin texture. The birth of Medimix dates back to a time when the cholayil family used viprathi oil as a cure to ailments of the skin.
The year 1969 proved pivotal in the family’s legacy as Dr. Sidhan combined a timeless tradition with a sharp acumen for business to develop a green bar of soap that could nourish and protect the skin. Medimix, over time, grew synonymous with skin care, the natural way. Strongly rooted in ayurveda, this amalgamation of 18 herbs has been on a constant endeavor to spread the happiness that comes from having young and healthy skin.
For generations, women and indeed entire families have placed their trust on Medimix and this is testimony to the magical properties that it holds. Currently available in 3 variants of soaps and a face wash, Medimix is all set to expand its range and further its vision of ayurvedic happiness for all.
Ingredients & Directions:
MRP: Rs.60 for 50ml (Buy HERE), Rs.100 for 100ml (Buy HERE)
It comes in this small, easy to carry, convenient flip cap tube packaging. This 50ml tube is perfect for your handbag and travels too.
I love gel based face wash as they do not foam much and do not dry out my skin. I always prefer gel based face washes over foam based ones, especially the ones with neem.
It is gel like in texture but not very runny, has a strong herbal smell, you can smell the herbs immediately. This face wash not only has neem which is my favourite ingredient, but a blend of other 5 very good herbs. Let me tell you the benefits of each..
Nimba i.e. Neem is anti bacterial and widely used for skin disorders
Haridra i.e. Turmeric is anti-inflammatory and antiallergic. It also enhances the complexion and skintone.
Kumari i.e. Aloe Vera calms and soothes the skin and is the only herb that can penetrate deep into your skin.
Lodhra is cooling and helps with acne as it is a mild astringent
Kushtha is antiseptic and known as a complexion enhancer. It is also widely used in treating many skin diseases.
Manjistha is known to soothe the skin and treat acne. Again a complexion enhancer too
All these herbs are widely used in skincare, to heal, soothe and treat many skin diseases and for improving the skin’s texture.
I love the fact that Medimix refrains from using unnecessary, extra ingredients or harmful chemicals in their products. Also it is free from animal fat. It is SLS and paraben free!
My skin feels soft and smooth, and not dry and stretchy after every use, I do not reach for the moisturizer immediately. I haven’t got any new breakouts since the time I am using this, even during that time of the month when I usually get 1-2 always!
Neem and turmeric are helping control the acne by killing the bacterial germs. Aloe vera is soothing and hydrating the skin while Lodhra, Kushtha and Manjistha are improving the skin’s texture.
I definitely recommend this face wash, it is my current Holy Grail and I am sure you will love it too, especially if you have oily to combination, acne prone skin. This will work for sensitive skin too, as it soothes and calms the skin and does not irritate it as there are no harmful chemicals.
Medimix also has a Anti-Tan variant i.e Medimix Ayurvedic Anti Tan Face Wash with Tanaka. I would be trying that too, soon.
While we sing paeans in the honour of eyes for they are appositely called “The windows to one’s soul”, there is another part of ours that exudes sensuality in an unprecedented way. Be it the slight slit of a crop top that gives a peak-a- boo to those chiseled muscles running all the way down or the 9-yard long saree which lets one flaunt that sculpted back the way you have always wanted to, there is no denying that backs are sensual and if flaunted rightly, they can set temperatures soaring 🙂 Tinseltown too, has a fair share of ladies whose backs leave us drooling every time we spot them in attire that flaunts their covetous possession. So, why not have a look at them and get that much- needed boost of inspiration that makes us hit the gym right now?
1. SHRIYA SARAN- Indubitably, the epitome of an Indian beauty for me, Shriya’s facial features are as enviable as her drool-worthy back which augments the grace of her backless blouses all the more. Dove-shaped eyes, fuller lips, glossy tresses, luminous skin, an enviable back that flaunts the skimpiest of blouses tastefully and there you have it, our very own Desi Jasmine
2. VIDYA BALAN- Can there seriously be anyone who does not admire this lady? She is audacious, intrepid and ridiculously sexy. And yes, she knows it too 🙂 Vidya Balan again is one Indian lady whose back makes for a nice piece of art to look at in sheer admiration and envy (if we confess)! Gawk… Drool… Sigh… repeat.
3. DEEPIKA PADUKONE- If offered to, I will without any iota of doubt switch bodies with her. Who wouldn’t? 😀 Her physique can carry off even a curtain if she’s told to! And while we may sigh over her almond-shaped eyes and toned legs, it is her back that raises mercury levels high. Cue? Watch Ram Leel’s Ang Laga De. The grace with which her waist sways and back arches makes her look feminine and enchanting simultaneously.
4. KATRINA KAIF- To those who don’t know, in De Dana Dan (an Akshay-Katrina starrer comedy flick), a special song was added (yes, the ones whose stills you are feasting your eyes to) to bank upon this on-screen couple’s sizzling chemistry. While the lesser we say with regards to the flick, the better but we surely do not disapprove the person(s) whose idea it was 🙂 After all, we got to see that this Hong-Kong born lady has a back that tantalises one to the T.
5. NARGIS FAKHRI- Miss Fakhri who is all the way from The States, has a pout that is the shutterbugs’ fancy to capture. A former model, Nargis posts about her diet and exercise routines on her Instagram account and fortunately, we now ken what that chiseled back of hers is a result of.
6. ANUSHKA SHARMA- Ms. Sharma who redefines pertness, vivaciousness and ebullience is not just a storehouse of energy and youth but also the proud owner of a sultry back that is well- flaunted here by her.
7. PRIYANKA CHOPRA- We, Desis particularly the ladies have some unique possessions just like women across the globe are blessed in some departments. And when swathed in Desi apparel, those possessions get highlighted like never before. Take a cue from the Desi Girl whose back here, can leave one both awed and amazed thanks to the way the saree is highlighting her curves.
Summers are here and sadly, showing no signs of mercy especially up in the North. Oh, wait… Who am I trying to fool? The entire India seethes as if set on fire during the inclement summers, right? 😛 While one would have checked their beauty armoury and stashed all essentials needed to brave the unforgiving summers, yet those of us who have highly chapped lips would be in a dilemma for the thirst of intense hydration of their lips would weigh on their minds. While at the same time, investing in a lip ‘butter’ (I know you might be wondering as to who’d invest in such ‘heavy’ lip products in summers) might sound impractical. 2 states… Not the flick but of your mind are having their own tussle and you are left puzzled!
Hold on. What if there is a lip butter that works to soothe your chapped lips deeply while not making them feel greasy/oily/heavy all the while it has been put on? Oh, and what if it is 100% natural, free from chemicals and vegan? I know I have ignited your interest you Obsessive-Compulsive- lip-balm- addict 😛 Scroll down to read my verdict on Raw Rituals Orange Lip Butter.
WHAT IT CLAIMS- Pamper your pucker with our lip butter daily to keep them moisturised, soft and supple.
MY VIEWS-
Packed in a plastic tube with a see-through cap on top, the packaging of this lip balm is simple, hygienic and handy. The cap has not lost its grip even after a month of regular use. On that account, it is up to the mark in terms of packaging for me.
The lip butter has the smoothest possible texture I have cover across till date. It glides so effortlessly that at times, I swipe it more than what is required simply because I enjoy the ease with which it glides 😛
It is neither waxy nor greasy that we expect most lip ‘butters’ to be. It is lightweight and when applied feels very natural. The staying power is good at 4-5 hours and so is the moisturisation ability. No wait, let me correct it. The moisturisation power is phenomenal! Your lips feel deeply…intensely… hydrated. And even after it gets wholly absorbed, you can note that it just did not sit on your lips all this while. It worked to heel them. For this reason, I’d recommend it to all those with severely chapped lips.
The aroma, although transient, refreshes you for it isn’t artificial and quite mild. It is so deeply hydrating that you can wear the most ‘drying’ lipsticks with sheer abandon if you have coated your lips with lip butter in the first place. With light meals, I haven’t experienced the need of a touch-up while with heavy ones, there is. I can turn a blind eye to it for that’s a minor flaw.
On the flipside, there is only shortcoming with this lip butter which I cannot ignore and that is its inability to impart any colour/tint. It is colourless which is why, those with pigmented lips may not be able to cover the darkness of their lips. So, that is the only input from me to Team Raw Rituals. All else for me falls in place. Pout without a doubt if you have this lip butter by your side 🙂
GOOD-
1. Commendable moisturisation power. Keeps lips well hydrated for 4-5 hours. Duration may vary depending on the condition of the lips but the point remains that it has an amazing moisturisation ability. Even after it gets absorbed fully, your lips feel softened.
2. Heels the cracks well.
3. Natural aroma. I am glad it hasn’t been pumped with artificial aroma. And the faint aroma of orange essential oil is refreshing. It isn’t long lasting but for the time it stays, you don’t feel that you have murdered your nostrils with a fake fragrance (under the garb of which many chemicals are added)
4. Packaging is on par. Stick packaging is handy, hygienic and avoids contamination.
5. Well-priced. It is budget-friendly.
6. 100% Natural
7. Chemical and preservative free
8. Made in India
9. Works wonders for the most chapped lips. Again, duration of healing may vary but it is a wondrous choice given its efficacy, ability, price and content.
10. A single stick lasts a good 3 months.
11. Can be purchased through Amazon India.
BAD-
1. No tint/colour imparted. Thus, unable to cover pigmentation/darkness of lips.
RATING- 4.75/5
Editor’s Note: I haven’t tried Raw Rituals products, but they seem good. Will definitely try something.
New & Improved Avon Glimmersticks Eyeliners Review, Swatches
Hi guys,
I have reviewed some of the Avon Glimmersticks variants before, today I am reviewing their new and improved Glimmersticks, they have improved the formula and here are my thoughts
What the Company claims: All New Formula, Bolder Color in One stroke, Continuous Waterproof Lines whole day
MRP: Rs. 329/- for 0.28g (For Rs.259 currently) (Available online on Nykaa)
Shades available:
Emerald Green
Blackest Black
Cosmic Brown
Majestic Plum
Starry Night Blue
They do keep adding shades or some Limited Edition shade for a new collection, they had added Textured Teal and Nocturnal, two new shades in 2012 with their Urban Jungle Collection, I have reviewed the Nocturnal shade HERE
They have a lot of different ranges in Glimmersticks, there is Ultra Brights (Reviewed HERE), Diamonds (more shimmery), Cosmic, Liqui- Glide, Flick eyeliner. And then there are Lip Liners and Brow Definers.
The pencils have color coordinated base which makes them easier to identify. I always prefer retractable pencils as I do not like wastage of product with sharpeners.
I can definitely notice the better formula in the first stroke, they were always easy to glide on and use, these are even more pigmented! I have mentioned in my earlier review how they use to break and are very soft, this time they didn’t break much. As you see in this swatch, the black broke a bit while swatching, but they are definitely more firmer.
They are easy to glide on and you get the required pigmentation in one stroke. I have the shades Blackest Black, Emerald, Majestic Plum and Starry Night Blue.
They stayed on for a good whole day on my upper lashline, for about 5-6 hours on my lower lashline and 3-4 hours on my waterline. I have very watery eyes, so I am still very impressed with the staying power. On the upper lashline, it just didn’t budge unless I took it off with a good makeup remover at the end of the day.
Entire quantity
I definitely suggest checking these out, and for the price, they are total value for money! I would recommend these over some of the other new launches which just break and you end up sharpening the entire pencil with a complete waste of product!
Left – Right: Starry Night Blue, Majestic Plum, Blackest Black, Emerald
The only con with these was they were available only through Avon reps, but now you get them online too, on Nykaa, etc. Though you cannot use the current offers and discounts as these websites have fixed prices.
Have you tried the new Avon Glimmerstick Eyeliners yet?
Cheryl’s Cosmeceuticals Facial Experiential & Home Care Kit Review
Hi guys,
So on the 10th of June, I went for a skin analysis and facial experiential of Cheryl’s Cosmecueticals at L’Oreal India office.
Let me tell you a little more about Cheryl’s Cosmeceuticals first.
Gunjan Jain, National Education Manager, who has been working with Cheryl’s Cosmecueticals for more than 9 years attended to me. She started by giving me a background about the brand and skin diagnosis with various advanced technologies introduced by Cheryl’s. They have a special Skin Scan App for salon experts that helps them understand the client’s skin and suggests a treatment accordingly. Not only that, the Skin Scan App also stores the client’s data. She did my skin scan test where I was asked a few basic questions about my skin type and concern, age, etc. and I had to register with my name, number and email id and if I did like to book an appointment now or later. This is the exact same app which Cheryl’s has at all salons where they provide Cheryl’s services. We went through it like they do with the clients at the salon.
Then they also had a magnifying glass with a light which has both 5x and 7x magnification to see those deep rooted, pesky blackheads which are not visible to the naked eye.
Cheryl’s Hydrameter
The most interesting tool was the Hydrameter which is used to test the moisture and oil levels. It shows the exact moisture and oil present in your skin and if it is below the required 35 to 50%, then it denotes that the skin is dehydrated.
So all these gadgets help scan the skin and zero down on which facial or treatment is needed by the client. There are normal facials and there are specific treatments for particular skin concerns.
I just had dryness and a little redness due to sensitivity, so we went ahead with the Sensiglow Facial. Now each facial kit comes with pre-measured sachets used at different steps.
About Sensiglow: Cheryl’s SensiGlow is a harmonizing facial to address sensitive skin concerns ,
Main Actives in the facial:
1. Sodium PCA, a key water soluble natural ingredient in the epidermis that keeps the skin well hydrated and radiant and
2. Sea Buckthorn Oil, a natural plant ingredient that plays a vital restorative and revitalizing action on the skin. It is very useful in combating and reducing redness on the skin as it is an effective anti-inflammatory agent that reduces the inflammation of blood capillaries.
Cheryl’s SensiGlow is an instant glow treatment that makes the skin lighter and radiant by eliminating dead skin cells. It also contains active herbal ingredients that uncover lighter glowing skin and is suitable for all skin types that are sensitive. It is specially formulated for calming and soothing sensitive skin. Itchiness and sensitivity are drastically reduced and the skin becomes less irritable.
Cheryl’s SensiGlow is a 6 step process which involves cleansing, deep cleansing, toning, massaging, packing and refreshing. The products used in this treatment are enriched with power-packed ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile oil, lactic acid, shiso extract that are specifically formulated to avoid irritations and provide instant glow that makes the skin lighter and radiant by eliminating dead skin cells.
Steps:
1. Cleansing: It’s like a basic cleansing milk, massaged on the skin for a minute and wiped with a cotton ball.
2. Double Cleansing: There is another cleansing step where the cream is massaged on the skin for 2-3 minutes. It is followed by steam. Now since only my nose had a few blackheads/whiteheads, Gunjan covered the rest of the face with tissue while giving steam so that the other parts of the skin don’t get irritated. It is followed by extraction of blackheads, which again were just a few on the nose. And lastly she cleanses again, so that any residue left after the steam and opening of pores is cleansed.
3. Toner: A toner is dabbed with a cotton ball all over the face to close the pores.
4. Massage: It is followed by a massage cream and Gunjan thoroughly massaged the face and neck for a good 10 minutes. It was very relaxing and I could feel the blood circulation.
5. Face Pack: Later a face pack is applied with a brush which is kept for about 10 minutes, until it dries.
6. Refresher with Anti-oxidants: A moisturizing lotion, little thicker than a toner, is applied after the face pack. Again dabbed with a cotton ball, similar to the toner.
7. Last but not the least, sun block is applied to the skin. They have two sun blocks, one for normal to dry skin i.e. cream form and one for oily skin i.e. spray form. She used the cream one for me.
Price: Rs.1200/- on an average, though varies from salon to salon
Duration: 1 hour + 10-15 minutes for skin scan
Want to know how it felt on my skin?
Before – After
I absolutely loved the results. My skin felt hydrated and fresh. The redness was reduced a lot and the skin was glowing. I noticed even more difference the next day. Since the facial was SensiGlow, it takes care of the redness of sensitive skin and gives a nice glow to the face. It did both of these things for me.
I also got three products as a part of my home care kit and I have been using them since the next day of the facial.
Cheryl’s Dermalite Facewash: A clinically proven gentle and effective cleanser that cleanses and lightens skin. Cheryl’s Dermalite is a powerpacked product with ingredients that exfoliate, hydrate, moisturize resulting in cleansed, brightened and lightened skin.
Price: Rs. 275/-
It comes in a tube form and is light blue in color with gel like texture, you just need one pea sized amount in every wash, so you need very little product. It doesn’t foam too much and that is what I like about it. It doesn’t dry out the skin and yet cleanses it really well. I use it on my cleansing brush for deep cleansing at times and my skin is super soft, smooth and completely cleansed.
I love the minty and cooling smell and effect, skin is definitely cleansed, brighter and smoother with this.
O2C2 Radiance Lotion: Inspired by gene science and stem cells research, a product that is specially formulated with ingredients like:
• Sodium Cocoyl Alaninate that is a potent anti-ageing agent
• Actinidia Polygama Fruit Extract that improves the transparency of the skin
• Evodia Rutaecarpa Fruit Extract which is known to enhance the radiance and luminosity of the skin. This is formulated to draw out and enhance the natural radiance and shine of the skin that is more associated with young, youthful and glowing skin.
Price: Rs. 1050/-
So Gunjan told me that O2C2 is her favourite product, but the product specifically mentions not for sensitive and acne prone skin and since she saw a little redness and sensitivity on my face, she told me to try this for 1-2 days and use it only if no redness or irritation.
I was a little apprehensive but I went ahead and tried it and I absolutely love it. Since the face wash exfoliates the skin a bit, using this post cleansing, does feel a little tingly at certain areas, but it subsides in a minute. It is a thick and rich lotion, but quite runny and not like a cream. It does feel hydrating and rich on the skin, and a little sticky, I believe it has glycerine.
It does not sweat the skin or make it greasy though, the stickiness settles in some time. I mostly use it at night and wake up to super soft, smooth and bright skin! I love my skin every morning, post using this.
DermaShade SPF 30 spray – Cheryl’s Dermashade Sunblock: Cheryl’s DermaShade Sunblock is formulated to offer complete sun protection, backed by the latest sun care technology and SPF boosters. It provides the highest protection against UV, lock in moisture so that the skin doesn’t dry out and also provides complete protection against sun damage.
Price: Rs. 600/-
Cheryl’s has two sunblocks, one in a cream format for normal to dry skin and one is in a spray format for oily skin. It is super light and easy to blend on the face. It does not leave the face with a greasy or a whitish cast. Since the lotion is quite runny, I like to pat in on the face. I use about 3 sprays for the face and neck. It is the most light weight facial sunscreen I have used. I have used lighter spray ones for the body, but none for the face yet.
L-R: O2C2, Sunblock,Face Wash
It’s been about 12-13 days post the facial and using the home care kit, and my skin is back to normal! I had a few breakouts in between, and if you follow me on Snapchat, you know about the pimples on the lips too. My skin is soft, smooth and much more even since the time I began using this range.
I absolutely recommend trying out Cheryl’s facials and treatments plus their home care kits! I love the blend of natural and scientific ingredients they have, to get that perfect product.
Have you ever tried Cheryl’s Cosmeceuticals? If not, you can avail these customised treatments at a Cheryl’s salon near you!
Kerala Travel Diaries- Places to Visit, Things To Do
By Sanchita
Introduction –
Kerala, is popularly known as ‘Gods Own Country’, blessed with a scenic beauty of green landscape, a mélange of beautiful beaches, the serene backwaters and a tradition to speak for. It is considered one of the best tourist destinations in India and truly a beautiful one. Dotted with the stunning beaches along the Malabar Coast to the fantastic verdant hillside tea gardens in Munnar, the amalgamation of rich cultures, traditions and folk dances, a land of elephants and the unique local cuisine – Kerala has it all. Kerala is a narrow strip of land with Arabian Sea on one side and Western Ghats on the other side. This place is gifted to receive the monsoon showers first in the city and thus the growth of lush greenery with its radiance and rich fertile soil has also made the land extremely cultivable. Let us see in details about the must visit places in Kerala as well the things to do when you visit the Gods Own Country.
1. Backwaters of Kerala – You want a romantic and serene destination with your partner? Or, a quiet and peaceful experience for a holiday with the family? The backwaters of Kerala is the most tranquil and relaxing place that you have to visit. The sunset along with the incandescent changes in the sky and experiencing that from a houseboat along the palm-fringed Kerala canals is the best moment one can have. Also, the delicious Indian food and chilled beer on board the boat make the experience even more gratifying.
2. Tea gardens in Munnar – Munnar is the famous hill station in Kerala situated at the confluence of the three rivers Madhurapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundaly. Another must visit place in Kerala is the Tea Gardens of Munnar. This place is well-known for its extensive tea plantations where tea is being picked and processed, and you can also try fresh tea straight from the gardens. The land is truly a blessed beauty with winding lanes, misty hills, and forests full of exotic plants and wildlife. If you are an adventurer, try the trekking to Anamudi, the highest peak in south India or go rock climbing and para gliding.
3. Athirapally Falls (Athirapally) – Athirappilly Falls, known as the largest waterfall in Kerala, is situated in Athirappilly panchayath, Chalakudy Taluk in of Thrissur district. It stands tall at 80 feet. And just a short drive from Athirapally, the Vazhachal waterfall is close to lush green forests that are home to many endangered and endemic species of flora and fauna. The wild beauty is just as fascinating as enchanting over there.
4. Varkala Beach – Considered to be one of the best beaches of India, the amazing picturesque Varkala beach provides a relatively peaceful alternative to the now commercialized Kovalam. The long stretch of cliff and views that extend over the Arabian Sea is simply breathtaking. There is a paved footpath runs along the length of the cliff, dotted by coconut palms, beach shacks, hotels. Do not miss the uninterrupted view of the sun as it slowly sinks down the horizon.
5. Folklore Museum (Kochi) – If you are a history lover, you have to visit the Folklore Museum in Kochi. It has been built in true Keralan style from ancient temples and beautiful old houses. It includes over 4000 artefacts and covers three architectural styles: Malabar on the ground-floor, Kochi on the 1st, Travancore on the 2nd. Upstairs is a beautiful wood-lined theatre, with a 17th-century wooden ceiling. The Museum is a treasure trove that showcases the rich heritage of Kerala through its numerous art and dance forms.
6. Kovalam Beach (Kovalam) – this is another top rated beaches in India and one of the prominent feature of the Kerala Tourism. The relaxing sun, the Ayurvedic treatments and powerful strong deep massage on the shacks along with the local cuisine is the best thing to ask for. The crescent shaped beach has a light house on its southern side, which provides an excellent view of the city especially the moon-shaped beach and the Vizhinjam mosque. Kovalam which is derived from coconut trees is 16 kms away from Trivandrum. The rocky formations amalgams with the calm blue bay to turn the bay into a special aquarelle on moonlit evenings.
7. Vadakkunnathan Temple – The ancient temple with unique architecture – Vadakkunnathan Temple has been declared as a national monument by the Indian government, under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act. It is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Kerala, situated in the heart of Thrissur city and the temple is devoted to Lord Shiva. It is believed that the Vadakkumnathan temple was built by Parashurama. The temple exhibits the classic architectural style of Kerala. The interior of the temple is beautifully decorated with murals depicting the episodes from Mahabharata.
8. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Thekkady) – the Periyar Wildlife sanctuary is one of the popular wild life sanctuary preserving various species of animals including elephants, tigers, sambars, gaurs and the very rare lion tailed macaques. The amazing cenic beauty along with its wildlife has been attracting tourists and visitors from all over the world for years and thus considered as one of the must visited place of Kerala. Take a boat trip to Thekkady Lake to experience it like never before.
9. Mattancherry Palace – Built by the Portuguese in the year 1557, Mattancherry Palace was presented to Raja Veera Kerala Varma of Kochi, the Palace was renovated in 1663 by the Dutch. It is a Bhagavathi Temple in the central courtyard is built like the characteristic Kerala style mansion – the Nalukettu – the home of the aristocracy, nobleness and upper classes, with four separate wings opening out to a central courtyard. It has the view of the panoramic Kochi backwaters and the gorgeous collection of murals collectively covering over 300 sq ft of its walls. There are some display of royal paraphernalia like weapons, swings and furniture which offer a glimpse of the lifestyle of the royal family.
10. Padmanabhaswamy Temple – the richest Hindu temple in the world, Padmanabhaswamy Temple is located in Thiruvananthapuram and is built in an intricate fusion of the indigenous Kerala style and the Dravidian style of architecture associated with the temples located in the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu, featuring high walls, and a 16th-century Gopuram. It is In terms of assets gold and precious stones, it is by far the wealthiest institution and place of worship of any kind in the recorded history of the world, with an estimated $22 billion worth of gold and jewels stored in underground vaults. However it is said that only 5 of the 6 underground vaults had been opened and explored.
Things to do in Kerala –
To have a look at the lush green landscape, take a house boat in Alleppey to travel through the tranquil backwaters is just as amazing as it is made out to be.
Visit the Eravikulam National Park because of Neelakurinji, which blooms once in 12 years and this rare view is a fascinating experience.
You can also having a nice trekking experience to the peak of the hill and get to see the Nigiri Thar, an endangered mountain goat.
Go for a Shikara rides in Alappuzha which has to offer some stunning views of the backwaters and the array of beautiful birds along with the nurturing of nature.
Watch the Colorful Snake Boat races during Onam festival in Alappuzha, Kerala which is held from July to September particularly during Onam festival.
Kerala is famous for spices. Visit the spice plantations or gardens in Munnar, Thekkady or Wayanad and experience some authentic black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon and the exotic vanilla and explore the farms on a nature walk.
Stay at a coffee plantation resort or homestay and it would include all the activities like trekking, night safaris, camp fire and plantation walks.
Watch Theyyam, a dance form staged in various temples of North Kerala, usually in front of the village shrine.
Culture –
The culture of Kerala is a fusion of Aryan and Dravidian cultures, advanced and mixed for centuries, under inspirations from other parts of India and abroad. It is well-defined by its antiquity, relic and the organic continuity sustained by the Malayali people. Any time you visit Kerala, most likely there will be at least one local festival you can experience. Kerala trace its non-prehistoric cultural genesis to its membership (around the AD 3rd century) in a vaguely defined historical region known as Thamizhagom — a land defined by a common Tamil culture and encompassing the Chera, Chola, and Pandya kingdoms. Kerala has an opulent cultural heritage with its diverse ethos is influenced by three main religions of Hinduism, Christianity and Islam. Exquisite sculptures, music and dance forms can be seen in the historic growth of Kerala’s cultural traditions. Trissur Pooram, The traditions of Kathakali and Mohiniattam are highly developed art forms that have established from their folk origins into highly evolved classical dance forms.
Cuisine –
Kerala is known as the “Land of Spices” and have a unique culinary experience, thanks to its wide variety of spices. The cuisine offers a crowd of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes prepared using fish, poultry and red meat with rice a typical supplement. Food is customarily served on a banana leaf and almost every dish has coconut and spices added for flavor, giving its cuisine a sharp spiciness that is heightened with the use of tamarind.Seafood is the main diet in coastal Kerala, whereas vegetables are the main diet on the plains. Meat is served as the main course in tribal and northern Kerala. Dishes range from simple ‘kanji’ (rice gruel) to extravagant feasts or ‘sadyas’.
Conclusion –
Thus, there are a million reasons to visit Kerala. From the serene view of beaches to the lush greenery, relaxing backwater and hills amalgamated with rich heritage of the land true makes it God’s own country. Unique culinary experiences combined with Land of Ayurvedha and Spices, Kerala is a must visit for everyone.
Editor’s Note: I absolutely loved this post Sanchita, so detailed! Kerala is also in my bucket list
Image Source: Google
Have you been to Kerala? If not, after reading this, I am sure you want to 😀
Maybelline Dream Sun Triple Bronzing Powder Review, Swatches
By Linda
Hi all you lovely ladies out there,
This review is of a bronzer that I got from a drug store it’s called Maybelline Dream Sun Triple Bronzing Powder. So let’s go ahead and find out how this product worked for me
Product description as per the Maybelline website:
For instant natural looking, sun kissed perfection. Three multi-tonal bronzing shades create your unique sun kissed look, all year-round. For Best results: Use a brush, sweep over where the sun normally hits your face. This bronzer is available in 2 shades Blonde 1, Brunette 2.
Price: 2.5 Kuwaiti Dinars (approx 8 dollars) for 16 g
Shelf life: 24 months after opening
Ingredients:
My experience with Maybelline Dream Sun Triple Bronzing Powder:
I was looking for a product that could give me a natural glow and at the same time could also serve the purpose of a contour and highlight to the face. While at work I always prefer looking fresh and natural, so in that case I stick to matte products and avoid products that have glitter and shimmer. As I came across Maybelline Dream Sun Triple Bronzer Powder, I instantly realized this would serve the purpose I’m looking for. I have a fair-medium skintone hence shade Brunette 2 was a perfect match.
The packaging is so sleek and convenient, that it can easily slip into your mini purse/pouch or bag. The container is plastic with a lid that is detachable (Be careful not to lose the lid).Only drawback is it doesn’t have an applicator and a mirror built in.
The best thing about this product is, it has 3 shades in one container. You can either combine all the shades using the brush by swiping it around the sides of your face [i.e. from ends of your forehead to the check bones and then to the jaw line], or you can use a single shade as per your requirement for a contour and highlight. If you are in a hurry, you can easily apply this product with your fingers, since it blends effortlessly. If you need an intense color, you can apply it with a damp beauty blender. During the day time I use it dry and trustme it looks so natural that you can even go without a blush. While using this product ,I realized it’s not a 100% matte bronzer, it does have tiny amount of shimmer but good enough to give you that sun kissed look as its claimed in the product description. I always do a retouch after 4-5 hours of application, due to my oily skin.
Below are the swatches of 3 shades. I had to do multiple swatches for the shade to reflect on the pictures.
Pros
Easily bendable.
Can be used both wet and dry.
Travel friendly (sleek packaging)
Quantity lasts for a long time.
Can be used for contouring and highlighting.
Affordable.
Good pigmentation (can be used as an eye shadow too).
Cons
Availability
No provision of an applicator and a mirror
Needs a retouch for sure.
Rating: 4/5 (availability may be an issue)
Would I recommend Maybelline Dream Sun Triple Bronzing Powder? Yes definitely I would recommend especially for someone looking for a product that is affordable and multipurpose.
Editor’s Note: I absolutely love this, I wish it was available in India! Nice review Linda and welcome to team NLM 🙂
Have you tried the Maybelline Dream Sun Triple Bronzing Powder? Is it available in your country?
Tinseltown stood testimony to the launch of Mr. Prakash Padukone’s daughter opposite SRK. It was the perfect launch vehicle. Renowned star, commercial film, huge budget, exotic and fancy locales, elaborate song and dance sequences, reincarnation saga, avenging the death of the love of one’s life by battering the antagonist black and blue, a song sequence entailing almost the entire B-town and aggressive promotions… Om Shanti Om (2007) was an ideal Launchpad for the lady.
To top it all, the movie was clashing with Sanjay Leela Bhansaali’s Sawariya which starred two star kids. So, the competition had some teeth in it too. The release date arrived. The box office stated its verdict. OSO thrashed Sawariya point blank and the leading lady of the former became an overnight sensation. Despite bagging almost all the Best Female Debut awards that year, her acting skills were limited and were panned by critics for long. With time, she upped her game, took things in her stride and today, she is no longer just Prakash Padukone’s daughter. She is Deepika Padukone
With humongous commercial successes like Chennai Express, Race 2 and YJHD in her kitty and an award-winning performance in Piku, this dimpled lady has set the bar high now. As far as her styling is concerned, it has evolved over the years and how! Almost everything she donnes has Fashionistas sit up and take notice. With a towering frame, heart-warming smile, almond-shaped eyes, drool- worthy physique and effortless sense of style, Deepika has no doubt become a sure-shot head- turner 🙂 On that note, let’s have a look at the BEST OFF-SCREEN AVATARS OF DEEPIKA PADUKONE THAT LEFT US DROOLING.
1. IN FENDI- Looking as fresh as a daisy, Ms. Padukone attended a promotional event for Bajirao Mastani in Delhi wearing Fendi separates with Zanotti ankle-strap sandals. With her luscious locks let loose and radiant skin, this look was easy, fun, casual and trendy.
2. UNVEILING THE DEEWANI-MASTANI SONG- Swaddled in a Tarun Tahiliani long kurta skirt look with relatively simple kundan earrings in Jaipur while unveiling the ‘Deewani Mastani’ song from her then, impending movie- Bajirao Mastani, Deepika looked a million bucks as she finished out the look with a matching lip shade and chic hairdo.
3. LET’S GO BLING- For another promotional event for Bajirao Mastani, Deepika opted for a monochrome striped blouse with a gold sequined pencil skirt. A studded belt from ASOS and cage sandals rounded her look out. To top it all, her poker straight hair looked chic and upped her glam quotient by leaps and bounds.
4. A LITTLE MORE BLING NEVER HURTS- Taking the bling look ahead, Deepika donned a pair of ripped bling jeans with a casual sweatshirt for the least leg of promotions of Bajirao Mastani. With her hair tied in a ponytail and s pair of heels, she sashayed as the shutterbugs tried to get a glimpse of this leggy lass. This look is apt for parties if you wish to break free from the monotony of one-piece dresses 🙂
5. GOING CASUAL WITH TUNICS- Keeping it casual and comfy during the Pune promotional tour of Bajirao Mastani, Deepika breezed through the scorching heat in a casual light grey tunic with distressed white pants, gold-tone jewelry,a brown belt, and animal-print ballerinas. It looks comfy and would make for an ideal pick for a casual day out with friends when the Sun is leaving no stone unturned to toast you
6. WITH TRIBAL JEWELLERY- Deepika gives one major fashion goals with this ochre Mango shift dress paired with a fringed Stradivarius vest that she donned for the promotions of Tamasha. The tribal jewellery is the perfect finishing touch.
7. IN MICHAEL KORS- The leading lady of Tamasha defines the art of chic dressing as she opts for a midi-length Michael Kors dress with Steve Madden heels. Add to that, her fresh as a daisy skin tone and you are sure to be smitten, aren’t you?
It’s a cute bag, blue faux leather smooth finish bag with pastel pink lips print all over the bag, I quite liked the bag.
Products I got:
Sugar It’s A Pout Time Lipstick in Peachy Little Liars- Rs.599
Neemli Naturals Bengal Gram Exfoliator- Rs.425/- for 50g
Pep Moisture Velvet Shampoo- Rs.119/- for 50ml
Johara Instant Radiance Face Scrub- Rs.100 for 15g
Total value of the products: Rs.1245
Starting with the Sugar Lipstick, I am very happy to get this one in this month’s bag, I think I had got one earlier in March or April when they had launched, the shade was Mad Magenta. This time I got a chance to pick the shade and I went with Peachy Little Liars, they have added two new shades, one this and the other red.
I absolutely love the shade, it’s not a peach but more of a pink brown nude. I will be posting a pic wearing that on my Instagram soon.
Neemli Naturals Bengal Gram exfoliator is a clay based face pack which needs to be rubbed after it days, so that it even exfoliates skin. It is on the lines of a ubtan, and can be used both for the face and body. Though it is very expensive to be used for the body and you will need the whole pack for one time use, I will be sticking to using it for the face. It has multani mitti, turmeric, gram flour, rice flour and sandalwood powder.
I have the Johara Instant Radiance face scrub before (full review HERE) and quite like it, this sample is very tiny though, but this is good for travel and might last 3 uses.
I have never tried Pep Moisture Velvet Shampoo, this has Oat Proteins and claims to make hair very soft and manageable in few uses. This 50 ml bottle should last 7-8 uses, again perfect for travel. I am looking forward to trying this out.
I like the Sugar Lipstick and Neemli scrub, both the full sized products in the bag. I won’t say it’s a must buy, but you can if you want to try Sugar lipstick.
Also only members with 3,6 or 12 months subscriptions will get a chance to choose the shade, while others who buy only for this month, will not get the option to choose the shade.
