BHADOO SAHIB

BHADOO SAHIB
BHADOO SAHIB
BHADOO SAHIB
 BHADOO SAHIB

GLAMM UP LIKE A STAR

to see what
contents

Digital
coverstars
Sameera
Reddy, SEPT -OCT 2022
Maleesha
Kharwa, and
Kusha Kapila
on why we
need to let go
of staid beauty
constructs, the
things they
don’t give a
damn about,
and more

On the Cover
BHADOO
115 Cover Girl
Actor Swara Bhasker on
defying societal norms and
living life on her own terms.
154 The Sex
Tips That Made
Cosmo Famous
This piece offers quite
a few gems that you’d like
to consider.
Upfront
22 26 Outfits That
Said IDGAF
24 Feminist Podcasts You
Need to Listen to RN
26 Can We Agree Movie
Makeover Scenes
Are Problematic?
28 5 Minutes With
Gurfateh Pirzada
30 Style Lessons
From ‘It’ Guys
32 It’s 2022, Why Are
We Still So Shy About
Sex Toys?
SAHIB
34 Four Digital Artists
On Disrupting Social
Conditioning
Fast Glam Beauty
39 Opener: Beauty
Comebacks
44 Soaring High
46 Manushi Chillar:
“Seeing How Far I’ve
Come Keeps Me
Grounded”
48 The Greatest Face
Masks of All Time
50 Your Toiletry Bag?
She is Gorgeous Now!
52 Facial Pilates
for Youthful Skin
54 This Could Be Why
Your Acne Products
Aren’t Working
56 Your New Social
Scent Wardrobe
58 Meet the Best Soft
Focus Foundations
60 The Final Word on
Mineral vs Chemical
Sunscreen
62 Lazy People’s
Guide to Foolproof
DIY Nail Art
 64 Ayurveda’s Global
Takeover
70 Beauty Scoop
Fast Glam Fashion
73 Opener:
On Our Radar
80 For the Love
of Local
82 Skirt vs Skirt
84 The Sunglasses
of the Future
86 6 Stylish, Size-
Inclusive Brands
to Love (And
Buy From)
88 Exponential
Performance
96 Cool, Indian
Denim Brands
98 A List of Things for
Your Next Flight
100 Street Style
You, You, You
102 Style News
158 What Does It
Cosmo Interview
115 No Guts, No Glory
166 It’s Time to Stop
Love & Lust
156 Moaning Sex Can
BHADOO SAHIB
Actually Turn You
168 Am I Bad at Setting
On More
19
Priyanka Chopra
Jonas on wearing
many hats, the launch
of her haircare
brand, and more
226 Live Life in Colour
234 Showstopping Extras
263 The 2022
Beauty Dictionary
274 Beauty Expert
Lifestylist
280 Opener: Cosmo
Short Stories About
Fierce Women
284 Luxury State Of Mind
286 Vivid Feels
216
Chic styles that
In Every Issue
16 From the Editor
288 Astro
are perfect for
transition 290 Last Word
weather
The Cover Look!
170 So, Should I Just
Keep Watching My
Friends Mess Up?
Really Mean to
Have it All ?
Work
Giving a Damn
About
Roles and Rules
172 I Hate My Boss,
But I Love My Job.
What Do I Do?
174 Following Your
Boundaries? Passion Is Bullsh*t
and Other BS-Free
Career Advice
Tech Photographs: Gary Dean Taylor;
176 What’s the Future of Creative Direction: Nandini
Smartphones? Bhalla; Stylists: Palak Valecha
and Yashima Babbar;
Make-Up: Anu Kaushik; Hair:
Body Love Lawang Tamang; Production:
178 Become a Protein Vasudev Garg.
Bar Pro On Swara Bhaskar: Wolf Wing
Shirt Dress, QUOD
Only In Cosmo
180 The Buzz-Off List
Fashion & Beauty
209 Be Bold, Be Beautiful
272
Gorgeous beauty
goodies to splurge
on this month

BHADOO SAHIB
Chief Operating Officer (Lifestyle Division)
and Publisher Sakshi Kohli
TEAM
Senior General Manager Kamalinee Chatterjee
Senior General Manager Mary Mehrunnisa
Senior Manager Sales Pooja Arora
Senior Manager Sales Rajeev Dubey
Manager Marketing & Sponsorships Ankita Malhotra
SALES AND OPERATIONS
Senior General Manager (National Sales) Deepak Bhatt
General Manager (Operations) Vipin Bagga
Deputy General Manager (North) Rajeev Gandhi
Deputy Regional Sales Manager (South) S
Paramasivam
Senior Sales Manager (East) Piyush Ranjan Das
CONSUMER MARKETING SERVICES
Deputy General Manager (Operations) G L Ravik Kumar
14 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022
Editor-in-Chief Aroon Purie
Group Editorial Director Raj Chengappa
Editor Nandini Bhalla
Editorial Co-Ordinator Kavita Sharma
Senior Associate Editor Meghna Sharma
FEATURES
Writer Shambhavi Dutta
Writer Diya J Verma
FASHION
Junior Stylist Yashima Babbar
Contributing Junior Stylist Palak Valecha
ART
Chief Designer Satender Sharma
Chief Designer Mandeep Singh
Senior Designer Vineet Singh
Video Editor Sanyam Purohit
DIGITAL
Digital Editor Sonal Ved
Managing Editor Ushnota Paul
Assistant Editor Pratishtha Dobhal
Assistant Editor (Entertainment) Adit Ganguly
Features Editor Stuti Agarwal
Senior Features Writer Akanksha Shivanand Narang
Features Writer Mitali Shah
VOLUME 26 NUMBER 303
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FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 Editor’s Letter
To stereotypes and prejudices.
To rejection and failing and falling, for
these are the muddy grounds that lead
to blossoming like the lotus.
To self-doubt and fears
and insecurities.
To people-pleasing.
To patriarchy.
To be defined by your background,
clothes, tattoos...or gender.
To who you should love and when you
should marry.
To the negative, critical voices in our
heads, including the one that is our own.
To sexism and chauvinism and ageism,
and any other ‘ism’ that depletes us.
To the version of ourselves that no
longer serves us.

BHADOO SAHIB “The Anniversary

Issue is about
To what your
aunt or neighbour
or neighbour’s
walking away from aunt thinks of you,
what no longer for their opinions
serves you...” are not yours to
Welcome to the live by.
Anniversary Issue. The Anniversary
Issue is about walking away from what
Gutsy, bold, driven women are often no longer serves you...and into a future
considered impolite; even where your best version shines and soars
provocative and ‘too much’. This like she is meant to.
issue, however, flies in the face of all It is time to take back your power, and
such labels...and celebrates the rule live life by your own rules.
breakers, the trend setters, and those
who are dancing to their own tune. It Have a wonderful month,
takes guts to go against the grain,
sure. But the women in this issue
make a rallying call to create history.
This issue is about saying no to
limiting beliefs.
To the unsolicited and crippling Nandini Bhalla,
expectations of others. Editor
To body shaming and unrealistic nandini.bhalla@intoday.com
beauty standards. Follow me on Instagram: nandinibhalla

16 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

 UPFRONT
THE TOOLS AND INFO YOU NEED TO LIVE LIFE, VERSION 2.0

THE
QUEEN OF
BHADOO SAHIB REINVENTION
upfront

“My
Failures and
Successes
Have Both
Been In the
Public Eye”
Priyanka Chopra Jonas’
inimitable spirit is what makes
her a very special interviewee.
Ahead of her haircare brand’s
foray in India—Anomaly, which
is exclusively available on nykaa.
BHADOO SAHIB
com—the multi-hyphenate speaks
to Cosmo about democratising
haircare, juggling numerous roles,
and tuning out people’s opinions
to carve her own path. beauty incubator in the US, and decided to create a brand
By Meghna Sharma that is different from most in the business.”

Cosmo: What inspired you to create a haircare brand?
Priyanka Chopra Jonas: “Anomaly is a culmination of
thoughts I have had for many, many years. I have been lucky
to sit in hair and make-up chairs of the most amazing experts
in the world...and I’ve had the best products used in my
hair. So I understand the expectations one would have from
products. I noticed the huge gap that exists in the haircare
industry: it is not democratised. The good stuff is extremely
expensive. And I was like, if I am a consumer that cares about
what I am putting on my hair, I have no option but to pay
more.
So I decided to create Anomaly and focused on a very
specific trifecta of benefits. One, it offers superior formulas.
Two, you’d be paying four times the amount you’d pay for
an Anomaly product if you purchased it from a market
leader, and it will make your hair feel the same way. And
three, we are environmentally conscious and I am really
proud of the fact that we are made from 100 percent
recycled trash from landfills and oceans. So I put all these
thoughts together and worked with Maesa, an amazing
C: And what was the thought behind the name...
PCJ: “Exactly what it means...that it is an anomaly. Anomaly
is a gender-neutral brand that doesn’t discriminate. Hair is
hair, and it requires the same kind of care. And by spending
very little on the packaging, we had the ability to create
superior formulas at affordable prices.”
C: Growing up, what was your relationship like with
your own hair?
PCJ: “I had really coarse, frizzy, long, thick hair when I
joined the industry at the age of 17, and it would take my
hairstylist two hours to blowdry it—because I just had so
much hair! So naturally, I had a very difficult relationship
with it. I didn’t know how to tame my hair, or take care of it.
And my confidence was directly proportional to my hair—it
is how I discovered vanity as a teenager perhaps.
Growing up, oiling was the only form of haircare I used to
follow and you’d mostly find me with braided hair. I couldn’t
afford the good stuff [hair products], because everything
was just so expensive.

20 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN


But today, I am sitting in front of you, speaking to you
about my haircare line, without a blowdry—this is my
natural texture. This is how my hair looks and feels when I
let it air dry. And that’s what I want to achieve with Anomaly.
The right products can make all the difference.”
C: Have you had any significant learnings about
haircare in the course of one year since Anomaly
launched?
PCJ: “Oh, absolutely. I may have had knowledge of using
products, but I didn’t have any experience in creating them.
So testing the formulas and going to the lab to figure out
what the product should feel like, or what the consistency
should be was all new to me. Before the launch, I tried each
product for two weeks consistently so I could make notes.”
C: We’ve heard that Anomaly products are designed in
a way that everyone can use all the products...
PCJ: “Yes, depending on what your hair needs. Anomaly
allows you to customise your haircare. One’s hair is never the
same every day, you know, so you can’t use the same shampoo
and conditioner for everything. That’s the reason we didn’t
pair our shampoos and conditioners.
That’s the beauty of this collection. There are three
shampoos, three conditioners, a leave-in conditioner, dry
shampoo, treatment mask, and an oil, and you can create
BHADOO SAHIB
your own routine. If my hair is feeling dehydrated, I use the
leave-in conditioner, or if it’s feeling frizzy, I use the oil. If I
have too much hairspray in my hair, I reach for the clarifying
shampoo, because it’ll take out that extra gunk. So you can
customise your regime, because it’s a lie when they tell you to
use the same product for so many different needs.”
C: Why did you choose Nykaa as your partner in
India to launch Anomaly?
PCJ: “Because Nykaa is a market leader...it has
democratised access. People in the smallest towns can get
the biggest beauty brands—Indian and international—
right at their doorstep. And I love that Nykaa has a female
founder, and it was a collective meeting of minds. I admire
Falguni [Nayar] and her ambitions, and what she’s been
able to create. So it just seemed like the perfect match.”
(From left to right ) Anomaly Dry Shampoo; Clarifying Shampoo; Gentle Shampoo; Smoothing Conditioner; Hydrating Shampoo; Shine Conditioner;
Volume Conditioner, all on nykaa.com, `750 each
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
C: You are a multi-hyphenate—you are an actor,
author, investor, entrepreneur, philanthropist,
restaurateur, and a mother now—how do you do it all?
PCJ: “Do you want the real answer, or a philosophical one?
[Laughs] The truth is, you can’t do it together—I don’t do
everything together. You are talking about the collective hats
that I have worn over a 22-year-long career...so I think being
patient is important. Compartmentalising is important: you
should be able to prioritise the task at hand. And seeking
knowledge is very important. I didn’t know anything about
acting, I learned everything on the job. Similarly, I didn’t
know anything about building a brand, I learned everything
from scratch.
My professional life has been in the public eye—my
failures and successes have both been in the public eye—so
I am not afraid of learning. I guess the honest answer is that
I find time for everything. And on different days, I juggle
multiple things, because I have learned how to prioritise
my work-life balance. It is very important for working
people to be able to, for their own sanity and mental
health, to disconnect, and then come back to work with a
fresh perspective. I didn’t know this in my 20s, but as I am
getting older, I care a lot more. Now, I want to be able to
do multiple things without compromising on that balance.
Also, having a great team that you trust, and delegate
responsibilities to helps tremendously.”
C: Do you ever have moments of self doubt?
PCJ: “Can you imagine if I said ‘No’? Everyone has self
doubt, especially in my position. I have been in the business
for 22 years...I have grown up with people discussing me,
my choices, options, learnings, failures, and successes. So
doubt is a big opponent. And there are many days when
the stakes get to you, where you are like, ‘Come on, I didn’t
mean that. I am not a malicious person, you have seen me
since I was 17-years-old!’.
But people’s opinions become a really big thing, especially
in my job. So I just disconnect from that. I just ensure that
I prioritise where I am and stay in the moment. Otherwise,
everything can be so scary and overwhelming, isn’t it? I guess
people think about it as a collective—it’s like, ‘Whoa, no
human being can possibly do that’. So step back, do one thing
at a time and do it well, and focus on your sanity.” Q
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 21
upfront

RIRI LEADING
THE FREE THE
NIP MOVEMENT

Sarah Sonam
Marilyn Jessica Kapoor Britney
Monroe Parker Ahuja Spears

Helen Rihanna Beyoncé

BHADOO SAHIB

Kendall Jennifer
Jenner Lopez Bella Hadid Madonna
Cara Princess Priyanka
Delevingne Diana Chopra
Jonas

22 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

 Cher Nicki Minaj Gigi Hadid
Aishwarya Billy Porter Christina
Rai Aguilera
Bachchan

IDGAF BHADOO SAHIB

On Cosmo’s 26th birthday, we revisit some of the most
loud, proud, and plain iconic celeb fashion moments,
which continue to live rent-free in our minds.
Compiled By: DIYA J VERMA

Deepika
Katy Perry Padukone Sridevi
Kim Lady Gaga Miley Cyrus
Kardashian

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 23

upfront
Can We
Agree Movie
Makeover
Scenes Are
Problematic?
They are an iconic feature in our
favourite films, but what have
they taught us?
W
e learned a lot from
the high-school films
and classic romcoms
of the ’90s and ’00s:
dresses worn over jeans didn’t age as
well as we’d hoped; dance-offs are
BHADOO
always as cool as you think; and if
you are not sure what you are doing
with your life, then you’re probably
“Did we internalise
on the verge of international pop
stardom. But, if there is one thing
that throws up all kinds of issues,
it’s the makeover narrative. You
know the one: young girl gets
her hair straightened, her braces
removed, her glasses binned, and
voilà—suddenly she’s prom queen/
successful/gets the guy (and yes, it’s
always a guy, but that’s a problem for
another day).
Take The Princess Diaries, Miss
Congeniality, She’s All That, The
Devil Wears Prada, etc—the leading
lady always gets a makeover that
leads to popularity (and therefore,
acceptance and success). While we
all devoured these films growing up,
the question is: did we internalise
the message that society’s beauty
standards are intrinsically linked to
happiness?
The idea that it’s impossible to be
happy unless the world deems you
attractive is something most women
would admit to having carried into
26 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022
Jennifer
Lopez
Sandra
Bullock
SAHIB
the message
that society’s
beauty standards
are linked to
happiness?”
adulthood, and this narrative supports
the rhetoric. “There are clear formulas
here that, as a part of visual culture,
play a powerful role in the production
and distribution of cultural norms,” says
Sarita Malik, professor of media and
culture at London’s Brunel University.
Plus, it’s no coincidence that these
happiness-inducing makeovers fall
within the male gaze. “These scenes
depend on women transforming into
a Eurocentric convention of beauty.
The transformation is captured in the
look, and that look is based on Western
beauty aesthetics in terms of hair,
dress, and bodies,” professor Sarita
adds. The majority of these revamps
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
Lindsay
Lohan
Julia
Roberts
YOU
DO
YOU,
BOO
Rachael Leigh Anne
Hathaway
Cook
are also carried out by men within
the story itself. Of course, that fact
that this factory line of patriarchally
manifested beauty has been Trojan-
horsed into films for young girls
doesn’t bear thinking about. But is
there a middle ground? Yes, these
scenes are problematic, but we
are not too thrilled about never
watching these nostalgic classics
again.
Maybe half the battle is
encouraging our brains to see them
as much as fiction as we do Lizzie
McGuire becoming a megastar on
a school trip to Rome. It doesn’t,
however, mean that we need
to bring these makeovers back.
Rebel Wilson’s recent Netflix film,
Senior Year, is a perfect example
of a noughties-esque film without
a problematic moment (if you
don’t count someone sabotaging
her cheerleading pyramid). Let’s
By: DANIELLA SCOTT
recognise that all these heroines
were attractive in the first place—
and, more importantly, that we are
so much more than how we look. Q
upfront

5 Minutes
with
Gurfateh
Pirzada
The 25-year-old on his
journey into the world
of acting, his biggest
support system, and
the qualities that make
up his ideal partner.
By Shambhavi Dutta BHADOO SAHIB
Cosmo: What were you doing right
before this call?
Gufateh Pirzada: “I just woke up and
I am a little jet-lagged because I returned
from the US this morning.”

C: What does a regular day in your life

look like?
GP: “My day usually starts with me
prepping for a film that I am working
on. I also sift through various scripts,
and audition for roles if required. My
evenings are reserved for the gym, and
post workout, I like to spend time with my
family and my dog, Berlin.
However, the one thing I do religiously,
every day, is watch a new movie. I like to
ONWARDS
observe other actors’ performances...it
helps me hone my craft.” AND
UPWARDS
C: Did you always want to be an actor?
GP: “You know, it’s funny... If a few years
ago, someone had told me that I’d be an

28 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

actor one day, I wouldn’t have believed them.
I participated in a theatre production in the 12th
grade—I didn’t want to study, and it was the perfect way
to skip classes. But by the time the production came to
an end, I knew that I wanted to pursue acting.”
“If a few years ago,
someone had told
C: How did you bag your first role?
GP: “It was certainly not easy. Right after my schooling me I’d be an actor
finished, my family moved to Canada, and my dream
to become an actor took a backseat. I took up menial
one day, I wouldn’t
jobs there—I worked at a meat shop and then at an have believed them.”
auto repair centre—but after a few months, it was clear
to me that I could only be an actor and do nothing else.
I convinced my family to move to Mumbai in 2014, and
things started falling into place. I vividly remember my
first audition...it was a disaster. Someone on set told my wearing. You’ll often see me in a pair of ripped jeans
mother, ‘Isse nahi ho paayega’ [he won’t be able to paired with a T-shirt—it’s my go-to look because it’s
make it]. But I didn’t give up and took up an acting fuss-free.”
course. And after a few years
of consistently working on C: What’s the most
my craft, and auditioning for prized possession in your
a tonne of films, I bagged my wardrobe?
first role in Brahma-stra. By GP: “My Jordon sneakers.”
then, Guilty was also
in works.” C: And is there something on
your wishlist?

BHADOO SAHIB
C: Who has been the
biggest influence in your
life?
GP: “I cannot wait to get my
hands on the sneakers from the
Louis Vuitton x Nike Air Force
GP: “My mother—she’s a 1 collaboration.”
real fighter. She had very
little emotional and financial C: What qualities would you
support, but she managed want in a partner?
to raise my sister and me GP: “It’s amazing when you
against all odds. My mum meet someone who is incredibly
always pushed us to follow understanding and gets your
our dreams, and I’ll be world—an actor’s life is not
eternally grateful to her for always glitz and glamour. There
her support.” are days when you don’t want
to leave your room because you
C: What is your biggest pet want to be alone; if your partner
peeve? gets that, then you are lucky.”
GP: “I often have friends
over at my place and once C: On that note, are you
they leave, I go on a cleaning dating anyone currently?
spree. I can’t stand a messy room.” GP: “No, I am not.”

C: How would you describe your personal style?
GP: “If I had to define it in a word, it would be relaxed.
I feel confident when I’m comfortable in what I’m
C: Lastly, which shows and movies will we be seeing
you in, soon?
GP: “Brahma-stra just released a few weeks ago, and
post that I have a Netflix show releasing this December.
Then there is Bedhadak with Shanaya [Kapoor] and
Lakshya [Lalwani], and I will also begin shooting for an
untitled project.” Q

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 29

upfront

SHAKE
THINGS UP
Chart-topping single Old Town Road S ty le L e sh
s o ns
men sure know how to gr
e stylis ab att
is not the only reason Lil Nas X
went viral back in 2019. Soon after,
Thes entio
the American rapper came out via a
n.
Tweet, post which the world saw a
new side of him—one he expressed
through his unconventional outfits.
He certainly doesn’t shy away
from making bold, red-carpet
choices—look below, TYVM. And
who can forget the Atelier Versace
suit-cape-gown hybrid he was
spotted in at the 2021 MTV VMAs?
From holographic suits to metallic
skirts, glittery bodysuits to striking
cowboy boots, and statement
accessories, Lil Nas X loves to
push the envelope, sartorially.

Lil Nas X
BHADOO SAHIB Ranveer
Singh

IN THE MOOD
TO PARTY
Ranveer Singh hasn’t always been
the sartorially aventurous dude we
Text By: SHAMBHAVI DUTTA; Photographs: GETTYIMAGES.COM

know and love today. The actor’s

style has evolved over time...and
it’s getting bolder and beautiful-
er. True, sometimes his eccentric
fashion choices might be considered
impractical, but Ranveer certainly
isn’t afraid to experiment with his
looks and have some fun. Frequently
sporting head-to-toe prints, logo-
clad ensembles, and sequins—all
while gloriously mixing prints and
patterns—Ranveer’s carefully-curated
outfits regularly break the Internet.
From It Guys
Cos
Peter Do

mo d oices.
ecodes h
their unconventional sartorial c
GET MOVING
Machine Gun Kelly’s (MGK) devil-may-care
attitude has always translated into his fashion
outings. Up until a few years ago, MGK’s
signature look was an all-black ensemble, paired
with chunky chains and spiked boots. But over
time, he started making bolder choices—like
bondage pants, metallic co-ord sets, and
pantsuits in bright colours and rich textures.
Heads be a-turning! The red, sequinned Dolce &
Gabbana pantsuit was a major fashion moment,
UNDERSTATED
MINIMALISM
Peter Do’s wardrobe comprises
easy-on-the-eyes colours, and
breezy, no-fuss silhouettes.
The New York-based designer
favours craftsmanship and sharp
tailoring over gimmicky looks.
Peter’s strength lies in pairing
classic styles in a way that make
one look and feel comfortable...
and we’re so here for it.

BHADOO SAHIB
while the white, embellished shorts suit with a
butterfly brooch is proof that this guy can make
literally anything werk. Meghan Fox will be proud!

Machine
Gun Kelly

FLUID
DUALITY
One quick Google search
Harry
Styles is enough to conclude that
Harry Styles’ personal style
is free of archaic notions
of gender-coded fashion.
The singer’s signature
aesthetic came into play
in 2017, when he was
spotted in a pink pantsuit
paired with heels. And over
the past few years, along
with his brave ensembles,
we have also seen some
drool-worthy make-up
looks make appearances.
And Harry continues to
champion gender-neutral
fashion by opting for
dresses, fishnet stockings,
ruffles, among others. Q
upfront
It’s 2022,
Why Are We Still So Shy
About Sex Toys?
Photographer and influencer Roshini Kumar decodes
the real reason we refuse to address self-pleasure.
he oldest-known dildo is 28,000
years old...sex toys are older than
civilisation, religion, and the
institution of marriage combined.
Even now, the Japanese brand
Hitachi will not acknowledge that their most-
loved product—the Magic Wand—is really used
for...well you guessed it.
Fast forward to today and a lot of us are still
rigid about self pleasure and sex toys. I think our
BHADOO SAHIB
ancestors would be a tad disappointed in us!
When you go around trying to find a sex toy—
most of them are available discreetly in the form
of body and face massagers. Which is
disappointing. We really have deprived ourselves
of one of the biggest, healthy, and really easy-
to-do joys of life.
Closer home, consider the Kama Sutra, which
has a section titled Aupanishadika (occult
practices) that mentions various kinds of
apadravya (apparatus) used for sexual pleasure.
The Kama Sutra describes in great detail what
the ‘sex aids’ or ‘dildos’ were made from, their
shapes and sizes, and even mentions sex dolls.
The truth is, sex was celebrated in ancient India.
From depictions in literature to murals and
paintings, and being represented as deities in
temples... It is evident that desire and pleasure
were never seen as taboos, but today, we can’t
even get a bikini picture up on the ‘Gram without
moral policing, trolling, and distasteful
comments.
So, how did we end up here? Colonisation led
to the death of freedom in all its forms and
means. Restrictions and regressions began and
the ripple effect continues to be felt in 2022. The
32 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
hold of patriarchy became stronger on women and
anything to do with a woman’s pleasure was
deemed sinful or dangerous. In fact, sex toys have
their own stereotypical notions. We are only able to
fit them in a certain ambit if they fall into the
traditional gender roles. For example, in the movie
50 Shades of Grey, sex toys are used and openly
made visible, yet it shows a man dominating a
woman. No prices for guessing, this still falls under
the patriarchal teachings. There is rarely any form
of media that openly talks about sexualities, self
pleasure or sex from the female gaze. And wrath
hail if a woman ever took charge of her sexual
agency. Think Swara’s [Bhasker] character in Veere
Di Wedding, where she pleasured herself using a
vibrator. It left her satisfied, but the aftermath
involved incessant trolling and being labelled as a
slut. Even for movies and shows like Lust Stories
and Four More Shots Please!, each of them was
brought under the scannerand
the audience had a hard time
accepting the ‘bold content’ (aka,
women enjoying sex).
“It is our turn to
A woman’s sexual needs are so let go of outdated
blatantly disregarded, that many
find it hard to say words like belief systems and
vagina, vibrator, orgasm in
conversations. Their
bring back the
connotations are attached with sexual freedom
shame and guilt, which are
exactly the feelings many of us we once had.”
are made to feel towards our
own body and sex, from early on.
It’s tragic that our feeds are filled with stories of
horror—women being violated, sexually harassed,
raped, or killed. We are completely fine talking

BHADOO SAHIB
about women’s sexuality when they
are the victims of sexual predation,
because it fits into the idea that
women are passive and men are
active; again a deeply ingrained belief
of patriarchy. But if a woman or any
other minority discovers their
sexuality or takes charge of their
sexual agency, they would be looked
down upon.
This conditioning has left us with
what is now a regressive, unequal and
deeply unhealthy society. The gap is
so wide that it is ironical how poor we
are in our approach towards the
female body, vibrators, and sex.
I firmly believe that sex positivity
will benefit our society greatly.
OUR
RIGHT TO
PLEASURE
Roshini
Kumar
some joy in this drab world, don’t
we? I make it a point to educate
myself, my family, and peers about
sex and desire. My once ‘traditional’
Indian mom, who scolded me for
having a boyfriend because she
thought I was having sex is now
(drum rolls: proudly) using her first
T h e 2 8 ,0 0 0 - y e a r - o l d p h a l l u s d i s c o v e r e d
by German scient ists sex toy, gifted by me. Everyone has
the absolute right to enjoy their body,
Curbing sexual pleasure leads to far explore their sexualities, give and
more dangerous acts, which will only receive pleasure.
rise if we don’t break this cycle. Now in the famous words by drag
It’s our turn to leave outdated queen extraordinaire, RuPaul
belief systems and build a safe Charles, “If you don’t love yourself,
environment to openly talk about how in the hell are you going to love
sexuality, pleasure, and vibrators. It’s anybody else?” If you know what
the only way, and we certainly need I mean. Can I get an amen? Q
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 33
upfront

Four Digital Artists

On Disrupting Social Conditioning
Cosmo turns the spotlight on illustrators whose thought-provoking
artworks demand that you question the norms. By Shambhavi Dutta

AYUSH KALRA
@ayushkarla
“My illustrated series called
Log Kya Kahenge x Didi,
explores common prejudices
that women face every day.
My art can be seen as
feminist, because it helps
women display their pains,
frustrations, and passions.
I am not afraid to create
uncomfortable artworks that
challenge society, as, through
them, I like to shed light on
the patriarchy that surrounds
BHADOO SAHIB
us in Indian society. My motive
is to change people’s
perceptions by ridiculing
society for its primitive
opinions. My art takes a jibe
at important issues through
unfiltered images with a
modern twist. Opinions are
important, because they bring
about new ideas and change.
It is not enough to just have a
strong opinion about
something, it is also crucial to
share them. And I do just that
through my illustrations.”

34 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

 BHADOO SAHIB

INDU HARIKUMAR
@induviduality
“This illustration is part of my project called Notes To My Lovers, which asked people to share what they wanted to tell their lovers.
This series is very close to my heart as it helped me understand different forms of love, and how they are expressed. For example, a
reader shared how she was shamed for small breasts. The story resonated with me because, I, too, was called names like kaadi
(stick, in Marathi) and skeleton for my lean physique. I have not only had to endure nasty comments from strangers, but even my
own friends dismissed my body. Well-meaning relatives have said hurtful things like, ‘What will you offer your husband? You don’t have
fat in both places.’ Shame along with constant nastiness makes us believe we don’t belong in this society. This is why I illustrate,
because my artworks make me feel less lonely... And they remind me that I am not the only one struggling with body shaming.”

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 35

upfront

SONAKSHA
@sonaksha
“As a fat person living in a world that
continues to oppress people with
bigger bodies, an important part of my
work involves changing people’s
perceptions about us, allowing them to
view our bodies with dignity, pride,
love, care, tenderness, and kindness.
People use the word ‘fat’ like it is a bad
thing, and mainstream media is a huge
part of the problem—bigger bodies
are often portrayed with a mocking
undertone. The body positivity
movement was started by fat people,
but it has been watered down into
versions that exclude most of us. We
should be the protagonists. And that’s
why I use art as a platform to affirm my
fat body. To remind myself and the
world that we are here, we are fat, and
we deserve to exist as we are.”

BHADOO SAHIB
VIDUSHI YADAV
@vidushiy
“The world we live in is
designed for the able-
bodied, and that is one of
the major reasons why we
never focus on the
challenges and trauma
experienced by disabled
people. They are all around
us and everyone needs to
know about their
inspirational stories of
resilience and courage.
This illustration symbolises
a world where differently-
abled people exist
gloriously. I consciously
intend to tell their stories
and stand my ground for
their rights...because
every voice adds to the
collective consciousness
of our society.”

36 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

 BHADOO SAHIB

ANIRBAN GHOSH
@ anirban_ghosh
“This illustration is inspired by Manoroma, who was born in the Mehsana district of Gujarat—I met her when I was a student at
NID, Ahmedabad. Her journey as a trans person helped me understand the intersectionality between gender, sexuality, religion,
and class. Manorama is a part of a series called Polaroids Of Pride, which was published by Penguin in an anthology called
Longform Vol. 2. It includes illustrations of the people I have met over the years. I try to highlight stories from our community
through my work, and documenting these stories not only helps me accept my sexuality, but also celebrate others who are just
like me. I have stood up against homophobia and transphobia from an early age...the truth is, we don’t live in an ideal world. And
that’s why it is imperative to voice your opinion and build alliances that help us find a common ground for solidarity.” Q

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 37

 BHADOO SAHIB

Follow @bazaarindia on
INSTAGRAM
for the latest in fashion, beauty and celebrity news.
FAST GL AM

BEAUTY
NOW WITH AN EXTRA DOSE OF GORGEOUSNESS

BHADOO SAHIB

Beauty
Comebacks
We have curated a moodboard using the most iconic make-up
looks from the archives—ones that promise to stand the test of
time for decades to come. By Meghna Sharma
fast glam
BHADOO
’80 S SAHIB
BEAUTY ICONS: WHITNEY HOUSTON, GRACE JONES, MADONNA
BEAUTY KEYWORDS: ELECTRIC HUES, SHINE
TREND #1
Colour
Blocking
The ’80s was a stellar decade for
bright colours. Neon-esque
eyeshadows paired with a bold mouth
might seem a bit much at first glance,
but the right combination can make all
the difference—Whitney Houston’s
look, though, is not for the faint-
hearted. But the good news is that if
you’re on-the-fence about too much
colour, you don’t necessarily need to
pair vivid shades together. The colour-
block effect can be achieved using
pastels, or by mixing neon and pastel
hues together.
Jeffree Star Cosmetics Eyeshadow - Pressed
Pigment Palette in Blue Blood, nykaa.com,
`7,300
40 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022
TREND #2
OTT Blush
This decade was big on blush.
And we are not talking about a
‘natural flush’, but saturated
colour that stands out. Think
pronounced hues of pink or
purple starting at the apples of
the cheeks going up till the
temples—hello, Grace Jones! To
cop the look, swirl a blush brush
in a ‘C’ pattern on your face. Then
dust s’more to achieve a
pigmented effect. You can keep
the rest of the look simple, or
bring your lids to the party, too,
by using the same blush as
eyeshadow.
Diego Dalla Palma Milano Powder Blush,
parcos.com, `2,550
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
TREND #3
Red Reigns
Supreme
As you can gauge, colour was a
huge part of the ’80s. And when
we speak of bold hues, you can’t
not discuss red and its realm of
shades. Matte, satin, creamy, and
metallic...red lipstick was seen in
many an avatar. Cut to 2022, we
now have options not just in
finishes, but also the type of
product—lipstick, gloss, tint,
balms, powder-to-matte formulas,
etc—making it much easier to
wear scarlet exactly the way you’d
like to.
Guerlain Rouge G Luxurious Velvet Matte
Lipstick in N 880, `3,300
 BHADOO
’90 S SAHIB
BEAUTY ICONS: NAOMI CAMPBELL, CHRISTINA AGUILERA, AND GWEN STEFANI
BEAUTY KEYWORDS: SKINNY BROWS, GRUNGE, EARTHY SHADES
TREND #1
Toe the Line
We might not have been big
fans of this beauty moment a
few decades ago, but it’s back
again...and it’s a lot cooler this
time around. Naomi Campbell,
the OG, was spotted flaunting
dark brown and black lip
liners—defining her mouth—
on the reg. And just recently,
Hailey Bieber adopted the
trend by using a nude liner a
few shades darker than her
natural lip colour for lip-line
definition. She layered it with a
gloss to nail her signature
‘glazed donut’ look.
Bobbi Brown Lip Liner in Nude,
`2,700
TREND #2
Frosted
Fantasy
If the ’90s pop icons had one thing
in common—apart from super low-
waist jeans—it was frosted
eyeshadow. Christina Aguilera,
Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez...
they have all been spotted with
‘frozen’ lids. 30 years later (yes, it
has been that long!), Doja Cat, Gigi
Hadid, and Kylie Jenner are
reviving this trend by adding their
own spin. Think bold eyeliner or
glossy lids for a modern aesthetic,
and colours ranging from lilac,
baby blue, and soft pink, with a
shimmery finish.
Sephora Collection Colorful Magnetic
Eyeshadow in 80’S Vibes, `750
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
TREND #3
Dark
Romance
Versions of red lipstick have been
trending since the 1920s. And
the noughties saw a darker, more
grunge shade taking centre-
stage. This look is all about
finding the right shade that
flatters your skin tone. Once
found, all you need to do is prep
lips with a scrub to get rid of dry
skin and flakes, and then apply a
lip liner in a similar shade to fill in
the lips (this also prevents the
colour from bleeding). Finally, top
it up with your favourite shade of
dark red.
L’Oréal Paris Color Riche Matte Lipstick
in Pure Rouge, `799
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 41
fast glam
BHADOO
’00 S SAHIB
BEAUTY ICONS: BEYONCÉ (FROM THE DESTINY’S CHILD ERA) , ALICIA KEYS, PARIS HILTON
BEAUTY KEYWORDS: GLITTER, GLOSS, HAPPY VIBES
TREND #1
Gloss +
Glitter =
Mega Chic
Glossy lips were still trending in the
noughties, but the ’00s also
featured specks of glitter for
touches of glamour. And we’re
crushing over shimmery glosses
all over again. An interesting fact:
everything that was big on the lips
then has now extended to the lids.
Be it darker shades, glossy
finishes, or subtle hints of glitter...
everything’s a go.
Lancôme L ‘Absolu Lacquer in Beige
Sensation, `2,400
42 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022
TREND #2
It’s a Match
The one thing we are happy to
borrow from this decade is tone-
on-tone make-up looks that are
easy to create and look
polished. You can either use the
same lipstick as eyeshadow, or
dab a dot of the eyeshadow
you’re wearing on your lips, and
top it up with some gloss. A
matte lipstick will stay put and
not crease on your lids, and
even the powder eyeshadows of
today come with tremendous
staying power.
Dear Dahlia Paradise Dual Palette in
Mix Coco Delight, `2,200
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
TREND #3
Think Pink
Paris Hilton’s style and beauty
choices made headlines during the
noughties. Whether it was the Juicy
Couture sweatsuits, the bedazzled
flip phone, or her signature glossy
lips...pink was her colour of
choice. Earlier the palette ranged
from light to medium tones of pink,
but right now, fuchsia is trending
majorly—and not just on the lips,
but also on the eyes. The only
difference between then and now
is that instead of going matchy-
matchy, we flaunt this shade only
on one feature.
Shiseido Lacquer Ink Lip Shine in Plexi
Pink, `2,200
 BHADOO
’10 S SAHIB
BEAUTY ICONS: RIHANNA, DEEPIKA PADUKONE, KIM KARDASHIAN
BEAUTY KEYWORDS: WELL-LIT SKIN, FLUFFY BROWS, CONTOURING
TREND #1
It’s Lit
While drawing on a chiselled face
was trending at this point—thanks
to Kim Kardashian—a nano trend,
featuring the highlighter as the
protagonist, was also on its way to
join the mainstream beauty trend
army. And we are happy to report,
it is still going strong. All you need
is a liquid formula that is easy to
blend and offers a strobe cream-
like effect. Basically, a highlighter
without the glitter particles. Dab it
on the high points of your face
after applying a matte, longwear
foundation, and blend using your
fingers or a buffing brush.
Charlotte Tilbury Glowgasm Beauty Light
Wand in Pinkgasm, `3,650
TREND #2
Fuller Arches
As Instagram gained popularity, the
‘IG aesthetic’ quickly became a
thing. And the key to nailing this
aesthetic involved strong, full
eyebrows. It didn’t matter if you
had two skinny caterpillars for
brows—often a result of over
plucking during the ’90s and the
’00s—the brow industry flourished
with products and contraptions
(read: stencils) to help you achieve
fuller-looking brows in minutes.
Cosmo tip: work on enhancing
your natural brow shape,
versus creating arches that can
look fake IRL.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Freeze,
`2,800
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
TREND #3
MLBB
Nude lipsticks really took off
during this decade. However, the
perfect nude, just like the perfect
red, is not easy to find—and the
wrong colour could make you
look washed out. While we have
been writing about using a shade
that is closest to the natural
colour of your lips, a new hack
recently emerged on social
media. The key to finding the
perfect nude lipstick is to match
it—wait for it—with your nipples.
Bizarre, yes. Would we try it?
Hell, yes!
M·A·C Matte Pink Lipstick in Mehr,
`1,750
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 43
fast glam

BEAUTY
BITES

BHADOO SAHIB
“Seeing How Far I’ve Come
Keeps Me Grounded”
Former Miss World and actor Manushi Chhillar speaks to Cosmo
about her skincare philosophy, the Holy Grail product in her routine,
and the route to inner confidence. By Meghna Sharma
Cosmo: Are you big on skincare? never left home without applying that I found beautiful was that they
Manushi Chhillar: “Growing up, I sunscreen. I followed her advice for were extremely confident about
had a very basic routine, and it has years, and, over time, added more themselves—and that’s what beauty
more or less stayed that way. However, products as per my skin’s needs.” means to me. I have always admired
I have learned that your skincare people who are unapologetically
needs to change with time, and you C: The beauty industry has themselves.”
Photographs: SUSHANT CHHABRIA

should understand your skin in order changed tremendously over the

to create a suitable routine. Growing
up in Delhi, we had different
products designated for different
seasons, and my mother helped me
choose the right cleansers and
moisturisers. She also ensured that I
past few years. Tell us how your
definition of beauty has evolved.
MC: “My idea of beauty has been
ever-evolving. But if I were to look
back at the past 25 years, the
common quality in every individual
C: What are your thoughts on
perfection?
MC: “The definition of perfection,
perhaps, will always be largely about
physical features...like someone with
a sharper nose, or higher

46 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

cheekbones. But, to me, perfection is
about acceptance. It is about
accepting who you are and loving
yourself for that. Having said that,
beauty is subjective, and everyone is
entitled to their opinion.”
C: As a former Miss World, what
do you think women can do to
feel more confident?
MC: “I think confidence comes from
self-care. It is
after I was crowned Miss India, and
this serum has been my Holy Grail
since then.”
C: And how did it work for your
skin?
MC: “ANR gives you an instant shot
of hydration, and you’ll wake up to
calm skin as it helps tackle Estée Lauder
inflammation. The long-term Advanced Night
Repair
benefits, of course, include even- Synchronized
Multi-Recovery
toned complexion,

“
Complex,
important to spend smoother texture, `10,500/75ml

time with yourself and firmer skin.”

to reach a mental Many of my
space where you childhood dreams C: What gives
are happy and have been you strength,
content with who
you are. As I said
before, everyone
should focus on
accepting
fulfilled because
if the profession
I am in.
“ Manushi?
MC: “I feel very
fortunate to have a
loving and
supportive
C: What are your hopes for
yourself in the coming years?
MC: “I just want to be content in
life—it is very important to me. It is
not that I am not ambitious anymore,
themselves... family—they are but I just want to get better as an
because that’s what my biggest actor, be part of great projects...
leads to inner confidence.” strength. I feel grateful to have come Many of my childhood dreams have
a long way, but I know that I also been fulfilled because of the

BHADOO SAHIB
C: You recently joined the Estée
Lauder family as the Indian
brand ambassador for their
have a long way to go. I think, being
in sync with that thought gives me
strength and keeps me grounded.”
profession I am in, and I certainly
want to achieve more milestones in
this space.” Q
iconic Advanced Night Repair
range. Tell us what you love
about the brand.
MC: “I truly admire the brand’s
founder, Mrs Estée Lauder. She
changed the way we view skincare,
and revolutionalised the industry
with the Advanced Night Repair
Serum. I have been using Estée
Lauder products for a while, so, for
me, to be associated with a brand
that I truly believe in made a lot of
sense. And I love that they support
female leaders from across the
globe—I think all of that really
resonates with who I am as a person,
and what I would want to do with my
life as well.”

C: When did you start using the

ANR Serum?
MC: “I was introduced to the
Advanced Night Repair Serum by a
friend, and it has been a part of my
beauty routine for the past four-and-
a-half years. I began travelling a lot

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 47

48
1
fast glam

COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022

2

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

3

4
BHADOO SAHIB

Prop Stylist: GÖZDE EKER; Text By: LAUREN BALSAMO AND SHAMBHAVI DUTTA; Photograph By: JEFFREY WESTBROOK
 1. LISÉN

The Greatest This overnight mask has a gel-based

texture that soothes irritated skin,
and nourishes and restores its

Face Masks protective barrier. It also leaves you

with a lit-from-within glow.
Sweet Dream Overnight Recharging
Mask, `1,450

of All Time
Some newcomers, some classics,
2. SKINCEUTICALS
Reactive, stressed skin will love this
gel formula that soothes and calms
with botanicals and an anti-
inflammatory peptide.
some under-the-radar gems. Phyto Corrective Masque, `4,900

3. NATURE OF THINGS
Max out your beauty sleep with this
all-natural pick. Massage it on before
bed and let the pineapple extract
dissolve dead cells while you
snooze. You’ll wake up to smoother,
more supple skin.
Rejuvenating Overnight Facial Mask,
`6,940

4. SISLEY-PARIS
Three minutes. That’s all the time this
luxe clay mask needs to give your
5
face a luminous glow.
Radiant Glow Express Mask, `11,430

5. CAUDALIE

BHADOO SAHIB 8 It’s your dark spots’ worst nightmare,

thanks to exfoliating AHAs and
brightening viniferine (a plant extract
at par with Vitamin C).
Vinoperfect Glycolic Peel Mask, `2,500

6. RAS LUXURY OILS

This one tackles hyperpigmentation,
and lightens spots and post-acne
marks. Enriched with green tea
extract and neem, using it regularly
will leave your skin supple and
radiant.
Luminous Detoxifying & Pore Refining
6 Clay Face Mask, `1,450

7. INNISFREE
7 This creamy clay mask minimises
pores and rejuvenates the skin.
Formulated with absorbent Jeju
Super Volcanic Clusters and AHAs, it
also helps absorb excess oil and
sebum, awarding you with a matte
complexion.
Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask 2X,
`1,110

8. BIOLOGIQUE RECHERCHE
The smell is kinda funky and the mud-
brown colour may not be cute, but
this cult favourite’s clarifying effect
on skin will truly blow your mind.
Masque Vivant, price on request Q

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 49

fast glam

RUNWAY READY
This super-soft, sparkly
case—as well as the
other beauties you
see here—can easily
double as a clutch.

Christian Dior
Micro Lady Dior
Vanity Case,
price on request
Chanel
make-up bag,
price on
request

BHADOO SAHIB

By: MALLORY RICE AND ANDREA ZENDEJAS; Photograph: DAMIEN FRY

Your Toiletry
Bag? She Is
Gorgeous Jimmy Choo
Vanity case with

Now!
chain, price on
An excellent prop for your request

bathroom-mirror selfie.
fast glam
2. Smile Wide
Two minutes is all you need to keep
creases at bay.

3. For a Chiselled
Face
Sagging skin under the
chin and jawline can be
Blow air into one cheek and then quickly move it to the other side of the face. Do
prevented with this
four to five repetitions of this movement. Next, smile wide, lifting your cheekbones,
easy, under-one-minute
and hold it for 10 seconds. Alternating these two movements for one minute every
massage.
day will ensure you don’t think about fine lines while smiling.

1. Smooth Out the Fine

Lines Around the Eyes
The skin around your
peepers is very delicate and
prone to signs of ageing.

BHADOO SAHIB

Place both the middle fingers

on the inner corners of the
eyes, and index fingers on
the outer corner—keep the
pressure lighter on the outer
Facial Pilates Start by placing your
thumb and index finger
under the chin. Use the
corner. Then, look up without
creasing your forehead, hold
it for three seconds, and look
for two fingers to pinch the
skin, pulling it outwards,

Youthful
toward the earlobes.
down only half-closing your
Beginners should repeat
eyes, and releasing in three
this movement 10 times,
seconds again. Practising
and once you get
this movement for one
accustomed to the
minute every day will keep
pressure, you can increase

Skin
Photograph: GETTYIMAGES.COM

fine lines at bay.

the repetitions to 20.

Simple exercises that will strengthen your facial muscles

and award you with firmer skin.
fast glam

This Could
Be Why
Your
Acne
Products
Aren’t
Working
Ever heard of fungal
acne? Here’s what you
need to know—and
no, it has nothing to
BHADOO SAHIB
do with mushrooms.
By Lia Mappoura

D
id you know that 95% of
people experience acne
before the age of 30?
Maybe. But what if I told
you that 27% of those people have
fungal acne? My self included. In
fact, there was a time—not too long
ago, actually—when I assumed that
every passing glance from a stranger
was an examination of the condition
of my skin. Especially my T-zone.
While these self-conscious thoughts
went completely against my nature
Photograph: GETTYIMAGES.COM

as a Leo (IYKYK), my insecurities

were tied up with this commonly
misconceived skin condition that I
furiously battled for years.
Before I explain what fungal acne
is, it’s worth addressing that the
name is actually a misnomer. So, as

54 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

 unpalatable (to put it bluntly) as it
may sound, ‘fungal acne’ is not exactly
acne, but rather the colloquial term
for the skin condition’s medical name,
malassezia folliculitis or pityrosporum
folliculitis (I know, I can’t pronounce
them either). Now, seeing as we are all
introduced and on friendly terms, let’s
get into the nitty-gritty details.
SO, WHAT IS FUNGAL ACNE?
“Fungal acne is a skin condition
that goes under-recognised and
can often be confused with acne
to the untrained eye, or it co-exists
with acne, and a person has two
simultaneous diagnoses,” explains
Anjali Mahto, medical and cosmetic
consultant dermatologist. “It is caused
by a yeast that naturally lives on the
skin, known as malassezia, and this
fungus forms part of the skin’s natural
microbiome.”
“The yeast causes inflammation
in the skin’s follicles, resulting in
the occurrence of visible spots,”
BHADOO SAHIB
says Stefanie Williams, cosmetic
dermatologist and medical director
of Eudelo, London. She explains that
although fungal acne may look similar
to ‘regular’ acne, often the latter has
a white head of pus, whereas fungal
acne is usually itchy. London-based
medical and aesthetic dermatologist
Alexis Granite
adds that
Fungal acne is fungal acne
also “tends
often confused to have a
with regular very uniform
appearance—
acne to the look for small
untrained eye red or flesh-
and goes under- coloured
bumps or
recognised. pustules”.
Basically,
just as
‘regular’ acne—otherwise called
acne vulgaris—is commonly caused
by imbalanced hormone levels and
bacteria, yeast is the main cause of
fungal acne. This is why it won’t always
respond to your regular blemish-
clearing products.
OKAY, SO HOW DOES
ONE TREAT IT? Your
Oil, as we have established, can make fungal acne
the fungus flourish, seeing as that is
what it mostly feeds off. So, perhaps
prevention
unsurprisingly, sweating, trapped heat pack
and humidity (which can be caused by
non-breathable clothing) and friction
are the most common causes, explains
Dr Alexis. “A moist environment,
medications such as oral antibiotics
or underlying medical conditions are 1. CeraVe SA Smoothing
also contributors,” she adds. But the Cleanser, `2,999
Opt for a gentle exfoliating
most common cause is often excess cleanser with salicylic acid to
oil production—especially in oil-rich aid with decongestion.
areas, such as the forehead, sides of
the nose, chin and the upper back,
and chest. Throw into the mix all those
lovely oil-rich beauty products we like
to use, and the problem is bound to be
exacerbated.
Basically, as a rule of thumb, it is 2. COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying
Treatment Toner, `1,090
best to stick with products that have This toner helps control sebum
a water base rather than oil, so it production and reduces the formation
of blackheads and whiteheads.
may be worth double-checking your
foundation, concealer and cleanser.
Oh, and never re-wear workout gear
without washing it first (no judgement,
we have all been there).
When it comes to skincare, London-
based medical doctor and skincare 3. The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA
specialist David Jack recommends that 2% Peeling Solution, `750
Use it once or twice every week to
“cleansing twice daily is important, slough away dead skin cells and
and using high-quality microbiome- smoothen skin texture.
boosting ingredients can help. This
includes those used to optimise the
pH of the skin, such as gentle alpha-
hydroxy and poly-hydroxy acids (AHAs
and PHAs), mandelic and lactic acid,
and nourishing ingredients such as
ceramides and hyaluronic acid. 4. Paula’s Choice
Dr David also explains that “topical
Exfoliate 2% BHA Liquid
Exfoliant, `2,700
antifungals often prove to be the A powerful exfoliating
acid to boost cell turnover and
most effective way of treating fungal leave the complexion clearer.
acne—these include ingredients
such as ketoconazole and
clotrimazole’” He continues,
“Failing this, oral antifungals, such
as fluconazole, are the next line of
treatment.” However, these would
require a prescription from your 5. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-
dermatologist and, per Dr David’s Free Gel Cream, `2,500
A light, non-comedogenic
recommendation, do seek professional formula that hydrates your
medical advice if your at-home skin and helps retain
moisture.
treatments aren’t working. Q
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 55
fast glam

Your New
Social Scent
Wardrobe
Yes, perfume planning is the
new outfit prep.
By Victoria Jowett

BHADOO SAHIB

Photography: PIXELEYES

56 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

 1. THE SUNDAY
BRUNCH ONE
Jo Malone London English
Pear & Freesia Cologne,
`9,600/50ml
The juicy pear notes are
mellowed with a touch of
amber and warm woods.
It’s the crisp white shirt of
fragrances—understated,
easy to wear, and
timelessly chic.
2. THE ‘NETFLIX
AND CHILL’ ONE
YSL Libre Le Parfum EDP,
`5,900/50ml
A deliciously warm blend of
spices and soft florals gives
this fragrance an allure
that’s hard to argue with.
Seductive yet subtle, the
scent develops on your skin,
getting richer and deeper as
BHADOO SAHIB the night wears on.
3. THE GOING
OUT-OUT ONE
Serge Lutens Poivre Noir EDP,
`14,840/100ml approx
With Madagascan black
pepper and creamy
nutmeg, this spicy,
captivating scent is so long-
lasting it’ll see you all the way
from post-work cocktails to
the morning after.
4. THE FIRST DATE ONE
Jimmy Choo I Want Choo
Forever EDP, `39,999
Forget the sugary
perfumes of your teens—
this sweet scent is all
grown up. With dashes of
cherry and vanilla, swirled
together with heady vetiver
and earthy moss, it’s
addictively more-ish.
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
5. THE LAZY
WEEKEND ONE
Chloé Rose Naturelle
Intense EDP, `12,900/100ml
Rose scents have a rep
for being a little, well,
stuffy...but this one
couldn’t be fresher. Think
neroli with a touch of
woody rose—it’s light,
airy, and invitingly clean.
6. THE GOING TO
THE OFFICE ONE
Edeniste Energy Lifeboost,
price on request
A power suit of a perfume,
the sharp citrus notes of
grapefruit and zippy
ginger stimulate the brain
and enhance your energy.
Skip the 3pm latte and
mist this scent for an
instant perk-up.
7. THE DINNER PARTY ONE
Maison Francis Kurkdjian 724
EDP, price on request
Chic and sensual,
this dreamy evening
fragrance mixes punchy
bergamot with crisp white
flowers—both of which are
tempered by the decadent
musky base.
8. THE WEEKEND
AWAY ONE
Miller Harris Myrica Muse EDP,
`39,999
This is a crowd-pleaser if
ever we met one, with notes
of bayberry, strawberry,
jasmine, and sandalwood.
The suits-all scent will take
you from country walks to a
cosy evening supper. Q
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 57
fast glam

BHADOO SAHIB

Meet the Best Soft Focus

Foundations
The best formulas for that ‘My Skin But Better’ effect.
Photograph: IRINA USOVA

By Meghna Sharma

58 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

4
1. KAY BEAUTY
HYDRATING
FOUNDATION, `1,200
Who doesn’t want their
make-up products to be more
‘giving’? The Hydrating
Foundation by Kay Beauty, per
its name, nourishes your skin
along with covering up
imperfections in a way that
doesn’t look or feel heavy. We
love the butter-smooth texture
that’s easy to blend and is
super-lightweight. Available in
20 shades—suited for Indian
skin tones and undertones— it
offers buildable coverage,
making it perfect for both day
and night.
2. FOREST ESSENTIALS
CHANDAN SOM RASA
SILK SKIN TINT , `2,750
When this homegrown brand
5 forayed into make-up, we knew
they’d whip up a blend that’s
part skincare and part
make-up. The Chandan Som
Rasa Silk Skin Tint is designed
BHADOO SAHIB
to blur out imperfections,
lending a soft glow to the skin.
Much lighter than traditional
foundations, this skin tint is
created with hand-pressed
moringa, almond, sunflower
and green tea oils. It can be
applied over your daily
moisturiser as the last step of
your skincare routine for a
healthy finish.
3. BY TERRY HYALURONIC
HYDRA FOUNDATION ,
nykaa.com, `5,550
If nourishing formulas are your
jam, consider this vegan
6 foundation that hydrates the
skin, covers up imperfections,
and also protects from sun
damage—it is infused with SPF
30. The long-wear formula has
a fine texture and is extremely
easy to blend. Since it is
formulated with hyaluronic
acid, it traps moisture and
plumps up the skin, blurring
fine lines and wrinkles.
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
4. GUERLAIN PARURE
GOLD FLUID
FOUNDATION SPF 30
PA+++ , `7,800
This full-coverage foundation
promises to not budge for
24 hours. Delivering an even,
flawless coverage in a single
stroke, it leaves the skin
looking radiant in a matter of
seconds—you can thank the
dual-faceted golden pigments
for that Goddess-like glow. ACE THE BASE
Parure Gold is a sweat-proof
and heat-resistant formula that Here are a few of our
adapts to every season and tried-and-tested tips to
region, and offers skincare
get that flawless finish.
benefits, perfecting your
complexion with regular use.
Juice Up the Skin
Before foundation
application, you need to
prep the skin. A hydrated
base will help foundation
6. BOBBI BROWN glide well, making it easier
INTENSIVE SKIN SERUM to blend. Bonus: well-
FOUNDATION SPF 40 , hydrated skin demands
`6,700 lesser product.
This silky formula combines
Bobbi Brown’s trademark
Active Skin Energizing
Complex with lightweight,
Lock In the
skin tone-perfecting
‘Target Points’
pigments. The result:
smooth, flawless, and Contrary to popular belief,
luminous complexion. The you don’t need to use
foundation also has UV filters foundation all over your
that defend the skin against face. ‘Less is more’ is a
environmental aggressors, great philosophy to follow
thus preventing collagen when it comes to your
damage. base. So target your
foundation on just the areas
you feel need coverage.
Seal It In
6. DIOR CAPTURE Setting the foundation is the
TOTALE TRIPLE most important step. While
CORRECTING POWDER spritzing a setting spray
COMPACT SPF20 , `9,500 after you’re done with
An amalgam of Dior’s cult make-up is the norm, we
Capture Totale skincare and recommend using it before
Dior’s make-up expertise, this
you apply highlighter—as
is a first-of-its-kind, triple action
foundation. Enriched with the the product sticks better on
essence of the Longoza- damp skin, making it pop.
Cellular Complex that lends a
smoothing effect, flat powders
that help refine the skin, and
light-diffusing pigments that
add luminosity, the Triple
Correcting Compact is just
what your skin needs for an
instant pick-me-up.
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 59
fast glam

YOUR FACE
DESERVES ONE OF
THESE SPFS

Mineral Chemical

Earth Rhythm SPF 50 Avène Very High Protection

Matte Mineral Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50+,
Sunscreen - Phyto `1,800
Shield, `675

BHADOO SAHIB
The Final Word On Re’equil Sheer Zinc Tinted
Mineral Sunscreen SPF
50 PA+++, `895
LISÉN Soothing Shade
SPF 50+ PA +++
Sunscreen, `1,200

Mineral vs Chemical
Sunscreen
A (very) quick and (very) easy crash course.
this time, we cannot definitively say that

F
irst, some facts: all sunscreens are
designed to protect skin from the
damaging effects of sun exposure,
and all sunscreens use either
chemical sunscreens are any less safe than
mineral ones,” says New-York based Rachel
The Ordinary Mineral UV Dr. Sheth’s Ceramide &
Maiman, MD. What we can definitively say Filters SPF 30 With Vitamin C Sunscreen,
By: SIENA GAGLIANO; Photograph: NISHANTH RADHAKRISHNAN

chemical or mineral active ingredients to get instead is that not using any SPF at all puts Antioxidants, `950 `499

the job done. Chemical SPFs absorb UV rays,
soaking them up sort of like a sponge and
converting them into heat that is released
from your skin (yes, science is magic).
Mineral sunscreens do the same thing in
addition to creating a protective shield that
reflects and scatters harmful rays.
Now, some more facts: despite plenty of
chatter that chemical sunscreen is unsafe (‘It
causes cancer!’ , ‘It messes with hormones!’,
says the Internet and probably a lot of people
in your feeds), the FDA—and plenty of
dermatologists—are so far unconvinced. “At
you at risk for premature skin ageing and,
more seriously, skin cancer.
TL;DR: there’s no right or wrong choice.
People with hyperpigmentation or sensitive
and/or acne-prone skin may prefer gentler
mineral options. Those who dislike heavier-
feeling or visible SPF might prefer super-
sheer chemical versions. The most important
thing is that you pick a broad-spectrum, SPF
30 or higher formula that you like enough to
actually put on every single day. Take it from
Dr Rachel: “The safest sunscreen is one you Belif UV Protector Multi Laneige Watery Sun
Face Sunscreen + Cream SPF50+
will use diligently and reapply without issues.” SPF50+, `2,990 PA++++, `1,650

60 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

fast glam

p l e ’s Gui
y Peo de
z to
La

Foolproof
DIY Nail Art Step one: order nail stickers, stat!
1
OPTIONS GALORE
Nail stickers give you an 4
instant upgrade. They
SMOOTH IT OUT
not only last longer as
compared to press-on File the excess bit
nails, but also make your with a medium-
tips look hella fancy. rough nail file.

BHADOO SAHIB
2
ADD-ONS TO 5
THE FINISHING
KEEP HANDY TOUCH

Nail stickers are great for Apply a generous coat

people whose schedules of clear nail polish for
don’t allow them to spend a profesh, salon-like
hours at a salon—these finish—this will also
cuties allow you to up your increase the life of your
manicure game in literally stick-ons.
seconds. To ensure these
stickers sit well on your
nails, clean the nail bed
using an alcohol-based nail
polish remover to get rid TIP:
of any stickiness.
If you want to get
crafty with your
3 basic manicure,
THE PERFECT FIT add cute stick-
Use a cuticle pusher to ons once the
increase the surface area. polish is dry for
When applying the stickers, an arty vibe.
cover the index finger of the
other hand with a clear wrap
to keep finger prints at bay.
Photograph: AARON DURALL

Place it gently on each nail

and push it hard to secure.

62 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022

fast glam

Fo r Yo u r
Hair and
Scalp

A Hair-Oiling
Duo
Mauli Rituals
Co-Founder
Anita Kaushal
uses this set as
an overnight
treatment. “I work
the oil into my
scalp in sections,
giving my head
a good massage
as I go, and then I
comb it through to
the ends with my
neem comb.”
Mauli Rituals Grow
Strong Hair Oil and
Detangling Neem
Comb, `4,000
BHADOO SAHIB

A Shine-
Boosting
Spray
Shake and spritz
this oil-based mist
on dry hair for
instant softness
and UV protection.
Fable & Mane
HoliRoots Hibiscus
Hydrating Hair Oil
Mist, `2,380
 AYURVEDA’S
Global Takeover
The 3,000-year-old science is ‘new’ again,
and it has got some very modern surprises.

L
et’s start with what Ayurveda is not. Despite says Michelle Ranavat, Founder and
what your feed may tell you, it is not a trend, it is CEO of Ranavat. “Now the two things
not a fad, and it is definitely not a novel idea. An are coming together—you are really
ancient science, specifically the science of life—in getting the full picture.”
Sanskrit, ‘ayur’ means life or vital power and ‘veda’ means How does this play out in your
science or knowledge—that’s been studied and practiced products? Balance. Turmeric, for
in our culture for millennia. “Ayurveda is a holistic way example, is now being combined with

BHADOO SAHIB
of looking at life that is now being more widely recognised
and practiced in the Western world, especially in the beauty
space,” says dermatologist Kiran Mian, DO. Some tenets:
retinol in topical medications to help
temper retinol’s potentially irritating
side effects. For those experiencing
your outer beauty is a mirror for what’s going on internally, hair loss or hair thinning, Dr Kiran
encouraging you to look deeper and treat an issue like a encourages patients to combine daily
breakout or a rash, not just at the surface, but also at the HAIR Rogaine with weekly or biweekly
root, where triggers like seasonal changes, diet, or OILING 101 hair oiling. “Rogaine’s main
just the constant stress of today’s world can create “For us [Indians], haircare is ingredient, minoxidil,
imbalances in your system. “When someone all about weekly prevention with works to dilate blood
Photographs: DAMIEN FRY; Text By: LAUREN BALSAMO; Hair And Make-Up: TRACY ALFAJORA; Model: DARYA
JEMELJANOVIÐ; Anemos Swimsuit (Worn Throughout); Location Courtesy: THE FOUR SEASONS HOTEL NEVIS

comes to me with acne, I’ll write them a hair oiling, as opposed to Western vessels and stimulate
prescription, but I’ll also help them adjust their cultures, where reversing and blood flow to the scalp,
daily habits to help reduce inflammation,” says repairing damage is what most people and that’s essentially
Dr Kiran. care about,” says Michelle Ranavat. what hair oiling does
The practice helps prevent hygral
But you don’t need to go to a derm to do with the massaging,” says
fatigue (repeated swelling and
some Ayurvedic exploration—we have an army shrinking of the hair follicle when
Dr Kiran.
of homegrown brands, based on its holistic wet), which in turn reduces Every expert Cosmo
principles. And traditional Ayurvedic herbs and breakage, frizz, and spoke to for this piece said
plant-derived ingredients like turmeric, bakuchiol, split ends. they want to share Ayurveda
gotu kola, rose water, and ashwagandha are blended with with the world. The brands on
scientific ingredients to create efficacious formulations. While these pages are inspired by different
the Indian beauty market boasts of many Ayurvedic brands, Ayurvedic philosophies and practices,
ranging from affordable to luxurious, it is booming globally and can help with everything from
as well. “I believe that Ayurvedic beauty is becoming more acne to split ends. “I always try to
mainstream in the Western culture because we are starting to, make it clear: Ayurveda isn’t just for
through these times of global health crisis, return to nature for Indian people or people who grew
health, healing, and beauty,” says Ananta Ripa Ajmera, a yoga up practicing it,” says Michelle. “It
instructor, spiritual teacher, and adviser of Ayurveda. Wellness- is the same thing with these beauty
focused beauty has been a thing for years now, of course, but secrets and products: they are meant
the cultural component hasn’t been talked about as much, for everyone.”
fast glam

Fo r Yo u r
Fa c e

RAS Luxury Oils

24K Gold
Radiance Beauty
Boosting Face
Elixir, `2,990

Forest Essentials
Soundarya
Radiance Cream
With 24K Gold
& SPF25,

BHADOO SAHIB
`5,950

A Nourishing
Serum
Mung lentil seed
Sadhev The Art
Of Ayurveda
A Gentle extract (it’s rich in
Aloe VEra & Cleanser vitamin B5) and
Saffron Gel with
Kumkumadi Rich in turmeric niacinamide come
Tailam, `1,950 and black together in this
cumin seed oil, serum to help skin
this face wash stay hydrated and
leaves skin soft improve barrier
and glowing. function.
Sahajan Golden Milk Avya Hydroveda
Cleanser, `3,800 Serum, `5,554
 BHADOO SAHIB

Fo r Yo u r
Masking
Routine

A Glow
BoostingMask
A blend of marigold, chironji,
red sandalwood, and rose,
this mask treats blemishes
and evens out the skin tone.
The Tribe Concepts Exotic Face
Glow Mask, `899
A Softening
Cream Mask
Inspired by handmade Indian
skincare treatments, this mask
plumps and nourishes with
turmeric butter and argan oil.
Prakti MahaMask Pampering Moisture
Treatment, nykaa.com, `5,550
fast glam

BHADOO SAHIB

Fo r Yo u r
N ex t D I Y
Fa c i a l

An Herbal Mix
This powder formula deep
cleanses and detoxifies
the skin, leaving you with
smoother texture and a
refreshed complexion.
Kama Ayurveda Lavanya Natural
Plant Mask, `750
A Facial Massage
Wand
The tip of this wand is made
of kansa, a blend of copper
and tin metals that is prized
for its ability to help soothe
and de-puff the skin.
Ranavat Kansa Wand Detoxifying
Facial Massage Tool, `5,699
 A Soothing
Body Oil
Infused with plant
extracts and
oils, this cooling
treatment is perfect
for balancing skin
in warm climates or
the summer season.
N o Ayurveda Pitta
Cooling Body Oil, `2,935

BHADOO SAHIB A Relaxing

Bath Oil
Pour it in your tub or
rub it on your body
and let the blend
of sandalwood,
jasmine, and
chamomile essential
oils help you unwind.
Uma Pure Calm Wellness
Bath Oil, `6,925

Fo r Yo u r
Body

A Rejuvenating Oil A Treatment

Featuring extracts of brahmi,
bala, and shatavari from the
Himalayas, this oil treats fine
lines and boosts elasticity,
making the skin appear
radiant and youthful.
Soultree Anti-Ageing Body Oil, `1,045
Massage Oil
Formulated with olive and
almond oils, and manjishtha,
this oil soothes irritated skin
and refines texture.
AMRUTAM Poshak Key Massage
Oil, `299
fast glam

JUST LIKE
SECOND SKIN
This bunch is blessed with superpowers
that include full coverage, radiant finish,

Beauty
and weightlessness that make ‘em the
most-coveted formulas in the biz.

(Clockwise from top) Clé de Peau Beauté Radiant

Fluid Foundation, price on request; Dior Dior Forever
Skin Glow 24H Hydrating Radiant Foundation,
`5,100; Chanel N°1 de Chanel Revitalizing

Scoop
Foundation, `6,250; Givenchy Prisme Libre Skin
Caring Glow Foundation, `4,350; NARS Light
Reflecting Foundation, price on request

WE BRING YOU THE LATEST

GOSSIP, TRENDS, AND TIPS FROM
THE WORLD OF BEAUTY!
By Meghna Sharma

BHADOO SAHIB
 # Tr e n d in g
THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT

FASHION EAST
L’Oréal Paris' all-new Glycolic Bright range is targeted at those
who crave a luminous complexion (and who doesn't, really). The
range features a cleanser, day and night creams, serum, and
sheet mask that are powered with lightweight AHA, aka glycolic
acid, all of which work to even out the skin tone, lighten dark
spots and blemishes, refine texture, and, of course, leave you
with beaming skin.
(L-R) L’Oréal Paris Glycolic Bright Instant Glowing Serum Mask, `199;
Skin Brightening Serum, `749; Daily Foaming Face Cleanser, `199

ALTER

EMPORIO ARMANI
VIVID LIDS
AHEAD
It has been the year of ‘upside-down’, with
deep, rich shades spotted on Spring/Summer
runways, and now, bright lids taking centre stage at
AW/22-23 shows. The Valentino pink, as it has now
been rechristened, stole the show with models
sporting a bold wash of rose. Emporio Armani, too,
favoured pink, but blended it with a bold, black,
jewelled flick. Off-White's neon lids certainly deserve
a second glance, while Fashion East’s abstract

BHADOO SAHIB iteration is great for those who treat their lids as

OFF-WHITE
a canvas. But if these versions feel ‘too much’
for everyday wear, take inspiration from
Poster Girl and Alter for a subtle-
yet-impactful gaze.

Manish POSTER GIRL

Malhotra Beauty
VALENTINO

Strobing Cream,
`1,550, and
Gold Flake Lip
Gloss, `1,250

FOR THE GODDESS ‘REMINDS ME OF

IN YOU SUMMER’ Nina Ricci
Soleil EDT,
The festive season is upon us, and Manish Malhotra Nina Ricci’s latest scent promises to lift `5,300/50ml
Beauty has just dropped two new launches that should your spirits with its bright bottle and equally
be on your radar. First up, the Strobing Cream, which sparkling notes. Celebrating the oh-so-
is a blend of skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic French guilty pleasure—Chantilly cream, a
acid, rice starch, and liquorice extract, to offer a lightly sweetened whipped cream—this
subtle glow. It can be used as highlighter or mixed with fragrance has a velvety, gourmand feel.
foundation for a dewy finish. The Gold Flake Lip Gloss, The citrus-floral blend features notes of
on the other hand, is enriched with 24K gold flakes mandarin, bergamot, gardenia,
that will leave your lips glowing. It is a weightless, non- cedarwood, and vanilla, and this explosion
sticky formula that works both as a balm and gloss. of notes is nothing short of intoxicating. Q

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 71

 FAST GL AM

FASHION
YOUR SNAPPY LI’L FASHION ADVISOR

On
BHADOO SAHIB
Our
Radar
Meet the season’s
coolest new trends
that deserve to be a
part of your wardrobe
refresh sesh.
Photographs: ASHISH SHAH
fast glam

The
Bucket List
We hope these bags are on your
Saira Bag,
AMPM, `10,950 wishlist by the time you are done
reading this.

AMBUSH
T RY I T
Move away from regular
shapes and embrace bucket
bags this season. Available in
a range of colours and finishes,
this new It bag style has many
personalities [read: can be chic,
Jewel-
edgy, glamorous] and will make
for the perfect companion
Tone Eyes
Maya Bag, Wicker
Weaves, `7,000 for any occasion. Your new inspo:
amethysts, sapphires,
and rubies.

BHADOO SAHIB
The Mini Zoe Bag,
Kaeros, `7,800

Smashbox 24 Hour
Photo Finish Shadow
ALTUZARRA

Primer, `2,050

Timeless Bag, Tod’s,

price on request
HUDA Beauty Color Shiseido Kajal
Block Obsessions Ink Artist
Eyeshadow Palette Shadow, Liner
in Blue And Green, in Sumi Sky,
BOTTEGA VENETA

`2,400 `2,100

PLAYING WITH COLOUR

Pat a primer (a must for fade-
proof hues) on your eyelids, then
MOSCHINO

sweep on a shimmery shadow

just past the creases. Finish with
Amora Mini Bag, Studio
Beej, `11,150
a matching liner, and voilà!

74 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

 Meet Your
Wardrobe’s MVP
Timeless and versatile, this classic ’90s silhouette, aka
the slip dress, has become the dress du jour.

Dress, Massimo Dutti, Blair Back Detail Maxi

`9,490 Dress, Forever New,
`8,400

T RY I T

BHADOO SAHIB
RABENS SALONER

T RY I T
The slip dress’ fluidity
adds to its overall appeal.
Team it with dainty jewels on
a hot, sunny day, or blazer it up
for a brunch. For a night about
town, add some sparkling Metallic dress, Night- Bloom Slip
Mango, `5,590 Dress, Aroka, `5,400
jewels to the mix, and
you’re golden.
Compiled By: RHEA KIMBERLY MITRA; Photograph: GETTYIMAGES.COM

THE SUMMER HOUSE

SAINT LAURENT

JIL SANDER

FENDI

Calie Dress, Dress, H&M, `1,999

Malie, `14,000

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 75

 fast glam

Oh-So-
Charming Deepika
Padukone

Upgrade your bijoux box with

these cute, kitschy charms.
Shanaya
Kapoor Pleated midi dress,
Zara, `4,990

Anne
Hathaway

The Meru Handbag,

ULLA JOHNSON

Satya Paul, `15,995

BHADOO SAHIB Cut-out top,

H&M, `1,499

T RY I T
When it comes to
Hamsa Hand Evil Eye
Yin Yang Gold Charm, sprightly colours, colour-
Charm, Stac Fine
Caratlane, `7,729 Flared knit skirt,
Jewellery, `8,600 blocking is the most effortless Mango, `3,090
way to sport them. If you want to
tone down the energy, stick
to shades of the same colour
family, and add gilded
jewels for that certain
~ je nai se quoi~. Monte Carlo Sandals,
Steve Madden, `8,999
Compiled by: RHEA KIMBERLY MITRA; Image courtesy: the brands.

Tara
Sutaria

Tassel Key Fob, Natural Malachite

Dopamine
Kate Spade, Symbolic Stone
`7,695 (approx) Charm, Tanzire,
`4,311

Effect
Grab your sunnies because we are taking the brightest,
One shoulder maillot,
Verandah, `13,900

Honey Bee Charm,

Raf Fine Jewellery,
most saturated hues out for a walk this season.
`5,100
 MICHAEL KORS COLLECTION
Sleek Hair
File under: strands so damn shiny, you can
practically see your reflection.

Your
Essentials

BHADOO SAHIB L’Oréal Professionnel

Tecni.Art Savage
Panache Texturizing
Powder Spray, `840

Dyson Corrale Hair

CHANEL

Straightenenr,
`38,900
LAQUAN SMITH

PETER DO
VERSACE

milk_shake
Lifestyling Thermo
Protector Spray,
SHEEN QUEEN `1,600
For hair that rivals your most brilliant lip gloss, spray a heat protectant all over before straightening
in sections with a flat iron or hot brush. Once your hair is nice and sleek, mist on a shine spray to
get that glassy effect. Double down on day two with an updo or slicked-back roots.
fast glam

Lisa Glasses, Rosvin

Bugs, `4,890

Metallic accent Mary

OFF-WHITE
Janes, Charles & Soft brushed
Keith, `6,299 checkered shirt,
Uniqlo, `2,490

T RY I T
Back-to-school dressing is
ROKH

having a major moment ATM,

and it is extremely easy to cop.
Pleated minis, exaggerated
collars, polka-dotted stockings,
printed scarves worn with a
Bahama Mama Mini Babushka-style knot...are all
Bag, Tiger Marrón, elements that can instantly help Kebella Frill Oversized
`10,000 Collar Polo Top, Ted
you get in on the trend.
Baker, `9,670 approx

BHADOO SAHIB
Checkered skort,
Zara, `2,590

Oval short handle

bag, Mango, `3,090
LOUIS VUITTON

Checkered mini skirt,

Scotch & Soda,
`10,900 approx

Frego Rare Green

Bag, Mistry, `8,000
MIU MIU

Scholarly
Strides
Compiled by: PALAK VALECHA

Give your uniform-dressing a chic touch with

School Pants,
preppy pleats, argyle print, and tailored fits. QUOD, `9,499

78 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

 Like Chalk and
Fabi Earrings,
Cult Gaia,
`18,800
Cheese
Wait a minute, these are mismatched on purpose?!

PRABAL GURUNG
Irregular
earrings, Zara, Hook and Fish Earrings,
`1,590 Sportmax, `22,715
approx

Rheo
Earrings,
Moonray,
Chunky `4,600
signature
earrings,
Coach,
`6,900
approx

BHADOO SAHIB Brutalist Fish Earrings,

Tory Burch, `18,530
approx
T RY I T
To highlight your gorgeous,
statement earrings, opt for a
clean ’do that doesn’t cover
up your ears. A sleek bun or a
slick ponytail will draw attention Celestial
to the jewels. But if you must Meteor Shower
wear your hair down, tuck it Hoops,
Hannan,
behind the ears, as seen at Ulla `2,400
Johnson on the left.

Dior Tribales
Earrings,
ULLA JOHNSON

Christian Dior,
price on
request
Margarita
Earrings,
Love Letter,
`5,600
Compiled by: PALAK VALECHA

Ortyx Drop
Earrings,
Swarovski,
`9,950

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 79

fast glam

PR ATHIK SH A
SH ET TY, MOD EL
“This lace bodysuit from
homegrown label Polite Society
is one of the most standout
pieces in my wardrobe currently.
The bodysuit features padded
shoulders and also comes with
detachable gloves that help
accentuate my ‘fit as per the
occasion. I feel so empowered
whenever I wear this, and I like to
style it with fuss-free silhouettes
likes wide-leg or cargo pants. For
a more feminine vibe, I wear it

BHADOO SAHIB with a satin midi skirt.”

For the Three fashion

SEASONLESS
STAPLES

Love of enthusiasts reveal

their favourite
homegrown picks.
By Manveen Guliani

Local
80 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
ANUBHUTI VERMA,
FASHION STYLIST
AND DIRECTOR
“I enjoy wearing retro-inspired
pieces, and this multi-
coloured shirt, featuring the
evergreen polka-dot print, is a
current favourite. I got it from
Carol’s Shop, whose founder
Carol Humstoe carefully
curates comfortable-yet-chic
pieces for both men and
women. Since this shirt has
so many colours, it is easy to
style—I usually opt for a pair
of pop-hued pants or shorts.
Sometimes, I dress it up with
a wrap skirt and boots.”

BHADOO SAHIB

PR IYA S INGH ,
MO DE L
“This dress by Doodlage
is made from upcycled
waste garnered from ethical
production units. I love
the colour palette—it’s so
soothing—and the comfortable,
flowy silhouette. Plus, it has
pockets, too, which makes it
super-convenient.” Q

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 81

fast glam

MOODY MINIS
If you love teeny-tiny
skirts, the new season
has brought with it
options for literally every

GERMANIER
occasion. From casual
styles to over-the-top

ESTER MANAS
details, both minimalists
and maximalists will
enjoy this silhouette.
While most designers
favoured bare legs,
textured leggings made
an appearance at Gucci
and Zimmermann,
adding personality to the
look. While Versace’s
coordinated skirt offered
an edgy-but-grown-up
appeal, we’re crushing

ZIMMERMANN
over the risqué styles
seen at Laquan Smith FLAUNT
and Coperni. YOUR
PINS

BHADOO SAHIB
VERSACE

GUCCI
CHRISTIAN COWAN

HERMÈS
EMPORIO ARMANI
COPERNI
KHAITE
LAQUAN SMITH

Skirt vs Skirt
OFF-WHITE

It’s the battle of the hemlines this season, and with

options as glamorous as this army, we’ve got
decision fatigue!
Compiled by Palak Valecha

82 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

 ACNE STUDIOS
ALTUZARRA

CHRISTIAN SIRIANO

RICK OWENS
LUDOVIC DE SAINT SERNIN

ETRO

BHADOO SAHIB
GABRIELA HEARST

MODISH MAXIS
There are very few styles
PETER DO

that can match up to the

elegant allure of maxi
skirts. And the iterations
seen on the AW/22-
23 runways exuded a
ALBERTA FERRETTI

certain timelessness that

cemented our belief
that this style isn’t going
anywhere. Most designers
played with dramatic
cuts, prints, and styles to
ensure that a maxi isn’t an
ALAÏA

afterthought, but the hero

piece of your look. If you,
like us, love drama, opt
N°21

for styles like Vaquera’s

printed skirt with a ’90s
LOUIS VUITTON

‘V’ waistband, or the

VAQUERA

Altuzarra’s goth-meets-
biker-chic version.

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 83

fast glam

Walong
Sunglasses, Sasha
Wear, `9,999

The
Sunglasses of
the Future
Intergalactic—but also kind of
retro—vibes ahead.
Illustration By Tanya Chaturvedi

BHADOO SAHIB

By: DIYA J VERMA

Dolce & Gabbana

Sunglasses, `20,240
 Sunglasses, Tom
Ford, `36,690

Linea Rossa Impavid

Sunglasses, Prada,
`21,890

Spaced Out
A nod to a retro-futuristic
aesthetic, pair any one of these
Matrix-style sunnies with a vinyl
trench coat. Too much? Switch
it up with a pantsuit for that
[nlbg^ll&f^^ml&l\b&Ûob[^'

BHADOO SAHIB
UV-protected, rimless
shield sunglasses,
Versace, `22,290

Tiffany & Co.

Sunglasses, `27,280
fast glam
FEMELLA
Apart from their regular
styles that are available
in small and large sizes,
Femella offers a separate
size-inclusive collection,
made from breathable
fabrics. Their range of
A-line, wrap, and pleated
dresses in bright tones
and soothing prints are
classics that don't just
work for all seasons, but
also look flattering on all
body types. Femella also
houses comfy loungewear
sets that are available in a
host of colours—you can
wear them as sets and
also separates.
Size Range: XS to 5XL
BHADOO SAHIB
6 Stylish,
Size-Inclusive
Brands to Love
(And Buy
From)
A quick glance at homegrown brands that
do not discriminate basis size.
By Shambhavi Dutta
86 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022
DOODLAGE
LOVE Known for their ingenious
THE ways of recycling fabric and
'FIT! giving pieces a second life,
Doodlage also ensures that they
create seasonless styles that
complement all body types. You
can choose from a range of co-
ords, dresses, jumpsuits, tops,
and shirts—each piece is unique
(every ensemble comes with an
extra patch or an embroidery).
Soothing colours with a hint of
patchwork makes pieces from
Doodlage a worthy option for
your 'drobe. BTW, the end-to-end
zero-waste brand doesn't charge
'fat tax'. In fact, none of the six
brands here do that.
Size Range: XS to 6XL
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
LEA IZSI
Every body is a bikini
CLOTHING CO. body. Period. Feel
Girls, tap into your ~feminine free to peruse through
energy~ with Lea Clothing's Izsi's collection that
girly styles. Featuring ruffles, offers swimsuits and
embroidery, lace detailing, dainty resortwear for all body
prints, and more, their playful types. Their fuss-free
pieces are great for everyday range is available in
wear. They have a variety of playful hues and made of
styles, ranging from co-ord eco-friendly fabrics. Also,
sets, cropped blazers, corsetry- every swimsuit comes
inspired blouses and dresses that with adjustable straps to
look flattering (and sexy) on all help maximise comfort.
body types. The best part about their
Size Range: XS to 5XL styles are that they are
versatile enough to be
worn as bodysuits with
trousers or skirts.
Size Range: XS to 4XL

BHADOO SAHIB –
A ROKA
When building a wardrobe
that's effortless, you need
pieces that span across
–
seasons. Aroka’s pieces
are a clear departure from
NEETI AND styles that were once
MUDITA meant to camoflouge one's
curves. With loads of bright
With society constantly
prints and quirky patterns,
dictating what women
you can get your hands on
can and cannot wear,
gathered dresses, cropped
this label's ethos lies
jackets with strategic
in offering women the
cut-outs, knotted kaftans,
autonomy to wear
among others. Each piece
whatever they want. The –
from A roka is handmade
homegrown brand offers
and caters to all bodies,
made-to-order pieces that
irrespective of gender and
can also be customised.
size. Cosmo tip: get your
Neeti and Mudita have
hands on a dress with tie-
created five collections
up strings that adapts to
so far, and you can take
your curves.
your pick from muted
Size Range: XXS to XXL
staples to glamorous,
sequinned finery.
Size Range: XXS to 6XL

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 87

fast glam
Jumper, Uniqlo;
underpants, Etam;
belt, Tamaris; feather
boa, stylist’s own; rings
and bracelets, Miuz
Diamonds

BHADOO SAHIB

Sartorial combinations to win

you major style points.

Styling:
Dasha
Romanovich;
Photographs:
Maksim
Churkin;
Compiled
By: Palak
Valecha
 1

10

3
RETRO VIBES
Old is literally gold when it
comes to fashion trends.
Turtleneck with high-waist
9
BHADOO SAHIB briefs are giving us major
popstar feels. However, you
can work this look with shorts, 4
instead. Add colour to your
outfit by way of jewels—the
more OTT, the better.

5
6
8

1. Juliet Long Sleeve Polo, Forever New, `3,200. 2. Bali Necklace, Love Letter, `4,299. 3. Animal print bikini bottoms,
Marks & Spencer, `1,500. 4. Heart Lock Hoops in Ruby Red, Amama, ` 4,000. 5. Ribbed wrap top, Vero Moda, `2,999.
6. Laran Flats, Jimmy Choo, `37,270 approx. 7. SKYLER-J Sandals, Steve Madden, `4,499. 8. Bikini Bottoms Hawaii,
Hunkemöller, `1,595. 9. Top, Promod, `1,410 approx. 10. High-waisted bikini briefs, Calvin Klein, `1,955 approx.

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 89

fast glam

10

THE RIGHT
9
FIT 3
Crop top and midi skirts make for a
fun combination that work for many,
many occasions. Think an exotic
beach location, a fun Sunday brunch

BHADOO SAHIB with your girlfriends, or even a party.

Accessorise the look with statement
earrings, a stack of gilded
bracelets, and a mini bag.
4
8

5
7

-
1. Tie-front bralette, H&M, `1,300. 2. Spiral Ring, Misho Designs, `7,000. 3. Sedona Skirt, A roka, `7,500. 4. Blake Wedges, Eridani, `2,300.
5. Stella Mules, Deme X Paio, `3,699 6. Eclipse Bag, Outhouse, `38,500 7. Suede crop top, Urban Suburban, `2,500 8. Ruby Summer Hoops,
Hannan, `2,200. 9. Calla Skirt, Moonray, `8,900. 10. Lucy Lady Leopard Needlepoint Small Crossbody Bag, Kate Spade, `29,300 approx.

90 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

Bikini top, Etam; skirt, TJ
Collection; scarf, Braschi
Fur; necklace and
bracelets, Sokolov

BHADOO SAHIB
fast glam
Bodysuit, Belle You;
Jacket, Marina Rinaldi;
feather boa, stylist’s own

BHADOO SAHIB
 1
2

11

WORK
10 AND PLAY
Pair pretty pastels with
neutrals to take your look 5

BHADOO SAHIB from desk to dinner in a

jiffy. An oversized blazer
worn with a bodysuit allows
you to keep it très chic at
work. At night, ditch the
layer and add dainty jewels
9 for an elegant look.

1. Skeyey Blazer, The Hem’d, `4,250. 2. D-Gellert Track Denim Bodysuit, Diesel, `21,999. 3. Audrey Mini Sling Bag, Miraggio, `2,000.
4. Heart necklace, MNSH, `2,600. 5. Satin blazer, Massimo Dutti, `14,490. 6. Sage Biana Evening Clutch, Perona, `6,800. 7. Ribbed knit
bodysuit, Zara, `1,990. 8. Charlotte Stilettos, Monay by Nayomi Sanspara, `2,250. 9. Ashtyn Watch, Fossil, `9,495. 10. Halterneck
bodysuit, Mango, `1,890. 11. Rainier Platform Round-Toe Mules, Charles & Keith, `6,899.

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 93

fast glam

2
9

8 PEARLY
WHITES 3
Trade your basic white staples

BHADOO SAHIB for pristine pieces with details

like power shoulders, bold
prints, or dramatic styles.
As for accessories, keep
the look monochrome for an
4
elegant finish.

6 5

1. Helenh Top, Ted Baker, `8,335 approx. 2. Stilettos, Aldo, `10,999. 3. Marais Shirt, Malie, `9,000. 4. Oversized
Runway Dive Pavé Silver-Tone and Logo Watch, Michael Kors, `37,000. 5. Saint Kate White Woven Leather Block Heel
Mules, Saint G, `7,900. 6. Tilda Baguette, Behno, `42,850 approx. 7. QUOD Ball Dress, QUOD, `32,500. 8. Printed
underwire swimsuit, Tory Burch, `25,135 approx. 9. Spike Earrings, Zillionaire, `6,200.

94 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

 BHADOO SAHIB

Top, Dieogo M; coat,

Mango; rings and
earrings, Sokolov

Model: Inaara at V Models; Make-Up: Anastasia Ignatova (Chief Make-Up Expert at NARS in Russia); Hair: Evgeniya Konashenkova;
Fashion Assistants: Olga Zavyalo; Production: Nastya Fridman.
fast glam

90’s ripped
wide jeans,
`1,699

Lightweight
bomber jacket,
`1,899

FREAKINS
With their entire creative team
under the age of 25, you’re in good
hands with styles that are a straight ticket to
denim heaven. Think pants with five pockets to
carry all your emotional baggage; pink mom jeans for
your imaginary school run; or baggy styles with a range
of rips that vary from the cautious to devil-may-care. You’ll
be able to flaunt your bootay quite happily with these cuts,
as they take well into account the curves you’re most proud
of. There are cute baseball and bomber jackets, as well as
dad shirts in pops of colour, to really zone in on the trend.

Reverse patch
BHADOO SAHIB And earlier this year, the founders—Sachin Shah and
Shaan Shah—collaborated with 22 young artists to
create a cool range that celebrates artistic
expression. Quick tip: drop everything and
bootcut jeans, give this brand instant attention.
`1,899

One sided
denim belt,
`999

Cool, Indian
Denim
Brands
The freshest styles that’ll
shake up your wardrobe.
Compiled By: Yashima Babbar;
Text By: Radhika Bhalla

96 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

 BLEW BREW
Ripped, baggy, and in shades like pink
and yellow, not just tones of the deep blue
sea, Blue Brew by Mumbai-based Aditya Rathi and
Anirudh Singh passes the vibe check (and how). Young,
fun, and comfy, the label gets extra props for cutting
across gender norms with their unisex pieces. And while the
cuts are perfect for everyday wear, they’re anything but basic.
Take the three-tone patchwork jeans, for instance: straight-fit,
with a low-waist option for the boys, a high-waist for girls, and not
one but five pockets (say farewell to forgetting small belongings
behind). To zero in on the denim-on-denim look, there are
T-shirts as well as denim jackets with a variety of treatments. Patch three
tone jeans,
Think normcore styling with accessories as per your style... `3,700
excuse us, but strictly following trends is so last season.
Do check their sizes before ordering though,
because they differ from other brands. And
many styles are on pre-order, but they
are entirely worth the wait.

MADISH
The Heidi Shirt
Dress, `4,400
Petite or XL, size charts don’t deter this Mumbai-based
The
Lovestruck
brand that is racking up body positivity and size inclusivity
Denim Bag, goals. For Madina Dinesh Kirpalani, the Founder, the aim is
`3,899 clear: to make sure you’re the main character in every
pair... There are classic skinnies, mom jeans, boot cut, or
wide-leg styles in sizes varying from 22 to 44. Each design
from the label’s new The Body Positive Collection is a high-
waisted creation, in shades of blue, black, and white.
There are denim bags and clutches to complete the look

BHADOO SAHIB
too, along with jackets, shorts, skirts, belts, and shoes.
Keep a lookout for the mega clearance sale to save some
bucks, and you can even earn cred by joining their affiliate
programme and earning commission on every sale you
make. Now if that isn’t a win-win, we don’t know what is. Q

THERE!
You know the denim outfits that make
you feel like you’re a construction
worker in the 1800s? That’s what
sister-duo Ankita and Gayatri Bansal
don’t want you to feel like. This Delhi-
based brand is the OG at creating your
wardrobe foundation, with dresses,
overalls, skirts, and blouses in softer
jeans-fabric, making the piece far more
comfortable to wear and style. We’ve
got our eye on the super-fly, anti-fit
jackets with metallic rings stitched into
them; just right for the transitioning
weather when you want to be warm but
don’t mind a bit of a draft on your
back. Not a popular opinion, but pair
the look with a matching bag, Ravishing
Denim Knotted
scrunchie, scarf, or apron...because Pencil Mules,
hello, YOLO! `3,299

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 97

fast glam

A List of Things for

Your Next Flight
Jet-setting to an exotic location? A skillfully-packed bag can
make long-haul trips pleasant. Here’s all you’d possibly need.

BHADOO SAHIB
6

7
Compiled by PALAK VALECHA; Lead Image: GETTYIMAGES.COM

HAVE A BON VOYAGE WITH THESE BBS:

1. Insulated Travel Flask, DailyObjects, `2,499. 2. Zivah Luggage Tag,
Fabindia, `990. 3. Galaxy Buds2 Pro, Samsung, `19,999. 4. Fleece
blanket, Hunkemöller, `2,495. 5. Thebe Magugu Fanny Pack, adidas,
`3,599. 6. Sleepy Eyes Eye Mask, nestasia.in, `590. 7. Tranquility
Memory Foam Travel Pillow, Travel Blue on nykaafashion.com, `2,495.
8. Iniziale Sling Case, Prerto, `4,900.

4 8

98 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

 fast glam

AKSHITA
NIDHI CHHUGANI, 27 KATARIA, 22
“Needless to say, “Body-hugging
the plumage of the dresses are my
oversized blazer grabs go-to pieces for
the spotlight, but I like a busy day. I like
how the aqua-green the tie-up detail
sunglasses help break that elevates
the monotone palette.” this ‘fit.”

Street
Style
BHADOO SAHIB
We took the battle of the best-dressed to
the streets, and were so impressed by
your style picks.

AKSHITA
VOHRA, 24
“Being a fan of AADITYA
athleisure, I love
this combo of a crop MUNJAL, 27
top and biker shorts. “I’ve colour-
I’ve added a bright blocked my
green shirt and bomber jacket
dainty baubles for with my T-shirt.
extra street cred.” The kicks
help bring the
look together
seamlessly.”

100 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 ROSE KAUR, 23
DISHA “For me, co-ord
AGARWAL, 23 sets are the easiest
“This lilac dress is pieces to throw
equally parts glam on. I have stuck
and casual. For a to monochrome
day out, I like to add-ons, such as
keep it fuss-free with pink flatforms and
monochrome make- a vinyl bag for a
up and a pastel-toned chic result.”
sling bag.”

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ANUSHKA HAZRA, 23
“The bright, floral shirt is
the star of my look. I like
how the bag and sliders in
different tones of yellow
complement my look.”

SHRUTI
TALEKAR, 24
“This white one-
shoulder top with
cargo pants is perfect
for a casual day out.
I styled the outfit with
a lilac bag to add a
hint of colour.”

SAMANTHA FERREIRA, 24
“I upcycled this cropped jacket
and skirt from a linen blazer.
For an understated vibe, I have
paired it with white slingbacks
and a brown handbag.”

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 101
 fast glam

THE BUILD-
YOUR-OWN SELF-
The Grand
Gesture Kit,
MyMuse, `8,800
CARE KIT
Founded by Anushka and Sahil
Gupta, MyMuse is a sexual wellness
start-up that aims to destigmatise
sex. Their range comprises
Block heel sandals
massage oils, candles, card games, and crossbody bag
eye masks, lubricants, massagers, (Pillow Walk
Technology), both
and unique kits with different Aldo, `12,999
combinations. Ankita and Sahil
founded the brand with an aim to
make intimacy easy, approachable,
and fun for modern Indians. Their
products and kits are designed
to not just enhance one’s intimate
relationships, but also promote
awareness towards self-pleasure.

Radhika
Heidi Apte
Klum Sharvari
Wagh

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Joey
King

Khloé
Kardashian
THE NEWEST, LATEST, AND MOST
TALKED-ABOUT FASHION STUFF

TONAL TENDENCIES
While the monotone trend isn’t new, we love
that several A-listers have given their stamp
of approval to colour play this season.
With Indian and international celebrities like
Ananya Panday, Tamannaah Bhatia, Kiara
Advani, Karlie Kloss, Khloé Kardashian, Gigi
Hadid, among others, sporting single-hued
ensembles, we have a tonne of inspo as to
how you can own this trend IRL. The pantsuit
Kiara
(formal, sexy, or casual) is one of the easiest
By: MEGHNA SHARMA

Advani
ways to dip your toes into the trend, and
skirt-suits come in a close second. We have
also spotted some celebs in a silk/satin slip
dress with a matching blazer.

Karlie Tamannaah
Kloss Gigi Bhatia
Hadid
 THE FINER
THINGS
Emerald Tablet
Studs, Simsum
IN LIFE
Fine Jewelry,
There is new fine
`3,50,000 jewellery label on the
block and their elegant
styles would make you
want to give your bijoux
box a major refresh.
Simsum Fine Jewelry,
founded by Sumer
Gehani, offers stylish,
real diamond jewellery.
Circle of Pearl Featuring pieces that
and Emerald
Necklace, millennials and Gen-Z
LIKE WALKING
Simsum Fine gravitate towards—
Jewelry,
necklaces, pendants,
ON A CLOUD
`48,500
rings, earcuffs, and
Aldo’s Autumn/Winter 2022 more—their dainty,
collection features the lightweight jewels
trademarked Pillow Walk Zambian
will steal your heart.
Emerald
technology that is focused Spaced Bonus: they allow you to
on keeping your feet happy. Hoops,
Simsum Fine personalise the jewels,
Developed with a molded Jewelry, making them the perfect
`2,50,000
sock foam that provides extra fit for everyday wear,
padding at the heel and ball travel, and gifting.
of the foot, the dual-density
foam formula absorbs the

Joggers
Lace-up
Sneakers
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pressure, ensuring you are
always comfortable. The range
comprises sneakers, sandals,
Emerald
hoops,
Simsum Fine Colombian Emerald Bar Drop
(Pillow Walk platform heels, boots, and more, Jewelry, Necklace, Simsum Fine Jewelry,
Technology), `2,50,000 `80,000
Aldo, `13,999 in an exciting range of colours.

KICK IN THE FESTIVE SEASON

NEW BEGINNINGS Emporio Armani has launched two mens eyewear models,
Akaaro, founded by designer Gaurav designed exclusively for India. Featuring a pair of optical
Jai Gupta, now has a new address in frames and sunglasses each, the bio-acetate, rectangular
the capital. The new store, nestled frames are sustainable and come with the Emporio Armani
in Lado Sarai, New Delhi, is an eagle logo. We love that the temples have the words
expansive atelier that reflects Gaurav ‘Celebrating India’ and ‘Special Edition’ printed on their
and Akaaro’s minimal and functional insides, that honour the Indian festive period.
aesthetic, along with the beauty
of Indian textiles. The designer
plans to use this space to work on Sunglasses, `12,790, and
optical pair, `11,490, both
innovations, starting from designing Emporio Armani
to developing original fabrics from
the yarn in order to create his one-of-
a-kind, timeless creations.
 PROMOTION

HOT GIRL SUMMER

Looking for swimsuits that are customisable, sustainable, and eclectic?
Look no further because this homegrown brand has you covered.

A
s travel restrictions lift up and we slather on
sunscreen, it's evident that swimwear is not
an afterthought. In fact, it is probably one
of the first pieces we pack. But, is it easily
available for everyone ? And can one enjoy a swimsuit
without feeling conscious? Founder Shekha Berry
talks about Tizzi—a swimwear and resortwear brand

BHADOO SAHIB that caters to every size and body while offering
utilitarian styles in a host of colours and designs.
Cosmo: Tell us what inspired you to launch Tizzi?
Shekha Berry: “I love travelling but finding the right kind
of swimwear was never easy. When I began researching
using consumer insights, I realised there was a wide gap
in the Indian market. This led me to launch
Tizzi. The ethos of our brand lies in the
philosophy of feeling good... That is
important to us and we want to offer the
most flattering silhouettes that make one feel
confident.”
C: You have spoken about Tizzi filling in the
gap in the swimwear market currently. Would
you like to elaborate on the same?
SB: “Post-pandemic, people’s desire for travel
has increased. As travel restrictions lift up,
SHEKHA BERRY there are vacations to pack for. And many
want to visit the beach... However, finding the
right swimsuit is not an enticing experience for an
average curvy Indian woman. To understand the resort-
wear market in India, we researched at different levels to
shed more light on how the industry affects the
environment and the position of made-to-measure
swimwear. Tizzi is on a mission to build a brand that not
only offers quality but is also rooted in sustainability. With
equal emphasis on design and functionality, Tizzi offers
customisations for a seamless fit, making it the perfect
companion for summer escapades.”
 BHADOO SAHIB
C: Apart from that, what would you say are the key USPs
of the brand?
SB: “The brand's range of swimwear is made from
regenerated nylon that is chlorine resistant and also
offers UV protection. While sourcing the material, we
check the certifications of the suppliers for
environmental management. Later each garment is
manufactured at our workshop in Gurugram. Once
designed, the final product is packaged in recycled
paper to minimise waste production.”
C: Inclusivity is crucial in the fashion space today. Does
Tizzi own that space currently?
SB: “It is the customisation we offer that makes Tizzi
inclusive. Many can be conscious about sporting a
swimsuit on a holiday...and having the option to
customise your swimwear makes it easier for customers
to select styles and designs as per her comfort. For
example, one can buy a bikini top with high-waisted
bottoms or a tankini with shorts or skirts. The label
wants to offer swim-friendly separates that can be
layered and built upon to create looks that help one
transition from day to night or a pool to brunch party.”
Log on to www.tizzi.in to shop the collections, and
follow on Instagram: @tizzi.official
 ADVERTORIAL

SEASON’S HOTTEST
FASHION DESTINATION
DLF Avenue, Saket, is all set to welcome Delhi’s favourite season with an
extraordinary flair. Featuring some of the most-loved brands such as Uniqlo, Marks
& Spencer, Guess, American Eagle, Nautica, ONLY, among others, it also houses
distinguished homegrown labels like S&N by Shantanu Nikhil, Ritu Kumar, and
Perona. Check out the capital’s most sought-after address to elevate your autumn-
winter style.

BHADOO SAHIB

On Anand: Jacket, `4,990; T-shirt,

`1,990, Pants, `2,490, all Uniqlo
On Shimona: Jacket, `3,990; Top,
`2,990; Skirt, `2,990, all Uniqlo
BHADOO SAHIB

On Shimona: Dress, `11,599,

and Bag, `8,999, both Guess
On Anand: Jacket, `7,999; T-shirt, `1,499;
Pants, `3,999, all Marks & Spencer
 ADVERTORIAL

BHADOO SAHIB

Blazer, `8,999;
Shirt, `2,799;
Pants, `3,999;
Shoes, `3,499,
all Jack & Jones
BHADOO SAHIB

Dress, `6,600;
Belt `2,700;
Bag, `11,900;
Scarf, `4,250,
all Ritu Kumar
 ADVERTORIAL

BHADOO SAHIB

On Shimona: Coat, `18,000; Leather Shirt, `25,900;

Leather Skirt, `24,6 00; Bag, `6,500, all Perona
On Anand: Shirt, `3,299, American Eagle; T-shirt,
`3,599; Pants, `3,999, both Nautica
 On Anand: Blazer, `36,500; Shirt, `12,500; Pants,
`12,500, all S&N by Shantanu Nikhil
On Shimona: Jacket, `5,499; Top, `1,799; Shorts,
`2,999; Bag, `2,799, all Only
PHOTOGRAPHER: KARISHMA BEDI; STYLIST: SHAURYA ATHLEY; HAIR AND MAKE-UP: KAJEE RAI; FASHION ASSISTANTS: APRAJITA PURI AND JANVHI JAISWAL; MODELS: SHIMONA NATH AND ANAND DIXIT AT PURPLE THOUGHTS.

BHADOO SAHIB

Find us on social media!

Head to DLF Avenue Saket, for your Autumn-Winter Shopping.
A4, Press Enclave Marg, Saket District Centre, District Centre,
Sector 6, Pushp Vihar, New Delhi, Delhi 110017
@dlfavenue
 Follow @
bazaarindia on
INSTAGRAM
for exclusive insights
on fashion, beauty,
luxury, and more.

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 No
BHADOO SAHIB

HOW CAN YOU LIVE YOUR MOST

AUTHENTIC LIFE? 13 RULEBREAKERS
SHARE WITH COSMO JUST HOW THEY
CHALLENGED THE NORMS,
FOLLOWED THEIR DREAMS, AND
DISMISSED THE OPINIONS OF
OTHERS... HERE IS YOUR SIGN TO STEP
OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE!

Creative Direction: Nandini Bhalla;

Photographs: Chandrahas Prabhu,
Gary Dean Taylor, and Manasi Sawant;
Stylists: Palak Valecha and Yashima Babbar
cosmo interview

“The very first

thing I stopped
giving a damn
about was caring
what other
people think.”

BHADOO SAHIB

Handwoven cotton
jacket with hand
embroidered fabric
flowers, Péro

Swara
Bhasker
The OUTSPOKEN actor is here to REWRITE the RULES, not live life by
FICTIONAL DEADLINES given to her, and pave her OWN PATH to
SUCCESS. And along the way, Swara PLANS to stay VOCAL about the
VALUES she BELIEVES in, despite the naysayers that try to stop her.
Interview By: Nandini Bhalla
he last
thing I said
‘screw it’ to
was the
pressure to
be married
by a specific time. You know, the
BHADOO SAHIB
checklist that women often bear the
burden of...to find a partner at any
cost and ‘settle down’ by a certain
age. This pressure never bothered
me until I hit my mid-30s, and
suddenly it became a thing, a
discussion point, especially when
everyone around me seemed to be
getting married and having babies.
I think a lot of South Asian women—
and women around the world—feel
this pressure to reach certain
milestones by certain points in their
lives. And they could be extremely
successful and living full lives
otherwise, but these expectations
around marriage remain. So I went
through a phase of being very self-
conscious about the fact that I am
single, and how there is absolutely
no-one on the horizon. And even
though I come from a very liberal,
progressive family, I felt like I had
failed my parents in some way. It
bothered me a lot, and then finally,
I was like...screw it!
But the very first thing I stopped
giving a damn about was caring what
other people think. What social
Actor
media thinks. And what strangers on
the Internet think. This attitude gives
me the courage to speak my mind,
even at the risk of getting trolled or
attacked. In our world, there is a cost
to speaking out, but I never shy away
from a fight or asking the questions
that need to be asked. Because when
you believe in something, you are
willing to stand up for it, and fight for
it, right? And so, despite the threats,
abuse, trolling, and the very real cost
to work, I say what I need to. This is a
path I chose consciously...I made a
choice to live authentically because
that’s the only way I know. On screen,
I can lie and pretend and act and
perform and play any role required
of me, but I can’t do it in real life...
like, I just have no patience for
being inauthentic.
In India, we care far too much
about what people will think of our
personal choices. And it starts early...
people want to know what career
someone else’s child will choose;
whether that child wants to be an
artist or a painter, as opposed to an
engineer or doctor. And other
people—some neighbour or aunty or
distant relative—have a lot to say
about someone else’s life decisions.
Young people are taught to care far
too much about language and
religion and caste identity...about
who we choose to fall in love with
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
and want to be with. Many young
people, who are dating people from
different caste groups or religious
communities, are miserable because
they say their parents will never let
them marry this person. And I am
like, ‘Why should you care? You are
old enough to fall in love, right? To
hold a job and make money, right?
Then why aren’t you old enough to
decide who you want to be with?’. I
believe young Indians give up a lot of
their personal liberties without even
fighting for them. I find this very odd.
I also believe Indians have a
significantly overdeveloped sense of
shame. Especially women. We just
spend too much time feeling
ashamed or afraid, that we will be
called names or looked at with
contempt. Many have been raised to
worry about what the neighbours will
think, or what a ‘decent girl’ needs to
do or say. I really think Indian women
could do with a little less shame...and
a little less guilt. We need to let go of
this ‘What will people say?’ mindset.
And we need to be a little more
selfish. We are constantly told to
compromise and adjust all the
time...I’d like to tell women to start
putting themselves first, even if only
every once in a while.”
Photographs: Gary Dean Taylor; Make-Up: Anu
Kaushik; Hair: Lawang Tamang; Production:
Vasudev Garg
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 117
cosmo interview
Buna Blazer, H&M Studio

BHADOO SAHIB
 BHADOO SAHIB

Wolf Wing Shirt Dress, QUOD

cosmo interview

Actor

Neha Dhupia The MOTHER of two is on a MISSION to NORMALISE

BREASTFEEDING, and put an END to JUDGEMENT around
WOMEN’S BODIES. Neha tells Cosmo how she STOPPED giving
a DAMN and learned to truly LOVE her BODY.
Interview By: Nandini Bhalla
had body image anyone to take that away from me. people or desperately search for a
issues when I was That’s when I began loving my body feeding area. A few months after
younger. It is all again. I thought to myself, ‘How can giving birth to my daughter Mehr, I
super-silly, but I you hate something that gave you two returned to work on Roadies and I had
was always beautiful children?’. Because if there is to nurse my baby. It didn’t matter
conscious about one thing in the world that I would whether I was in a car or on a set or in
my ‘heavy bottom’. And today, I look never, ever reverse, it is the birth of my a trailer... I needed to feed my baby
back at my 20s and I am like, ‘What children. And they are here because of and if that made some people
was I so worried about?’ One of the my body so I need to tell other people uncomfortable, that’s their problem.
most beautiful things about getting to back off. Today, even if I am not in Some years ago, I was at a mall, with

expectations and judgements.

BHADOO SAHIB
older is that you start caring less about
what other people think...about their
Instead, you start forming your own
opinions about yourself, your life,
your body, and your beliefs. It is a
good place to be at.
The first time I decided to not give
a damn about what people said about
my body was after I gave birth to my
daughter. I went through postpartum
depression, and it was eight difficult
months of trying to put up a brave
front. But every night, and this was
when I was breastfeeding until late, I
would go look at what people had to
say about me, and everybody seemed
to have an opinion. I had gained 22
kilos at that point—which I lost, and
then gained again when I got
pregnant the second time.
Throughout this time, I often judged
myself and struggled with my
confidence. And then one day, it just
hit me—that it didn’t matter what size
I was, it didn’t matter how I looked, I
needed to feel good about myself
regardless of the number on the
weighing scale. And I would not allow
‘perfect’ shape, I love my body. And I
feel beautiful. I don’t need to justify my
weight gain or weight loss to anyone.
Society expects a lot from women,
and sets unrealistic beauty standards for
them. Sadly, many of these standards
are set by women themselves—we put a
lot of pressure on ourselves, and often
think that we are not good enough if we
don’t fit into a pair of pants from before
we had babies. Our bodies change after
childbirth and that’s absolutely normal,
and we have to be okay with that. When
someone compliments me, I am honest
about how I have a team of people that
works on me, and certainly don’t ‘wake
up like this’ because women need to
know the truth and not feel ashamed
about natural changes.
One of the things I feel passionately
about is a woman’s right to breastfeed
with dignity and without judgement. To
be honest, I never realised what a
serious problem this was until I became
a mother. The breasts has always been
sexualised, and we forget that it is also a
food source for a newborn. And because
you have to feed your baby, you are
forced to leave the room or hide from
my daughter in a pram, and I asked
where I could breastfeed her. They
told me to go to the toilet and feed my
child because most malls and airports
and offices aren’t thinking about a new
mother’s needs. This bothered me,
and that’s when I decided to launch
Freedom To Feed, in 2019. I wrote
about my experiences as a new mother
struggling to breastfeed, and, within a
few days, thousands of mothers wrote
in with similar stories. It was insane!
Today, we have a community of almost
40,000 moms and parents, and we
have important conversations around
normalising breastfeeding and also
about a mother’s choice to feed the
way she finds right and is able to.
Whether that’s choosing to breastfeed
or use formula or pump milk... We
have a lot of expectations and
demands from mothers, but we really
must learn to let them make their
decisions because they know what is
best for their children.”
Photographs: Manasi Sawant; Hair and Make-Up:
Rakshanda Irani; Hair and Make-Up Assistants: Virja
Mehta and Dinkle Gosrani; Videographer: William
Thekkan; Production: Studio Little Dumpling

120 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 Universe Sequins
Blazer, H&M Studio

BHADOO SAHIB
cosmo interview

BHADOO SAHIB

Vulgar Scarf, Vulgar

 BHADOO SAHIB

3D hand-
embroidered tier
sleeve jacket,
Rahul Mishra
cosmo interview
Iridescent bralette
with detachable
sleeves, Bloni

BHADOO SAHIB
3D hand-
embroidered tier
sleeve jacket, Rahul
Mishra

BHADOO SAHIB
cosmo interview

BHADOO SAHIB

Cargo Blazer,
Dhruv Kapoor

.IN

Sameera Reddy
The 43-year-old actor isn’t STANDING for BODY SHAMING, or STARVING
herself to fit CERTAIN IDEALS anymore. By making HERSELF her first
PRIORITY, Sameera has reached a state of greater ACCEPTANCE.
Interview By: Nandini Bhalla
he last
thing I
said no to
was
working
with a
brand that did not align with my
beliefs. And then, when another
brand asked if they should
Photoshop my ‘grey, eyebrow hair’ in
a campaign photograph, I refused
because I am happy to own that little
grey strand. 10 years ago, I wouldn’t
BHADOO SAHIB
have been this confident...I would
have worried about ruining my
chances or pissing someone off. But
today, I care more about being
authentic and true to myself.
Over the years, I have struggled
with my body and body image. I lost
a lot of weight to look the way I was
expected to. And I was incredibly
self-conscious about my hips not
being proportionate to my breasts,
so I would wear a push-up bra
every single day...even to the gym!
I dated men who pointed out my
flaws, and that only made me feel
worse. I agonised over how I looked,
constantly. If I could go back in
time, I would tell my younger self to
work on her self-worth. I struggled
with this constant sense of not being
good enough...I was a victim of
‘imposter syndrome’ and believed
everything I had achieved was a fluke
and that I didn’t really deserve it.
And because I was short-selling
myself, I couldn’t achieve my true
potential. I only understood and
overcame this in my 40s.
After my pregnancy, it was difficult
Actor
to love myself because of my past
insecurities. My body changed in so
many ways, and it remains different
from how it used to be. After giving
birth, a woman is expected to get
back ‘in shape’ within months, which
is unrealistic. I still have a floppy,
saggy stomach, which no amount of
exercising has helped. I think I am
what they call a ‘thick’ body, and I am
definitely more voluptuous than
before, but I don’t see these as bad
things anymore. Do I want to go back
to my pre-pregnancy body? Well, I
killed and starved myself to look that
way, which wasn’t sustainable. And
today, I am at a weight and shape that
I am happy and comfortable with...I
think each one of us needs to come to
a healthy, accepting space in our
minds, regarding our bodies. And
focus more on what we want, instead
of what others think we need to look
like. The truth is that women care far
too much about what other people
think, what they say, and about how
they are perceived. They really need
to care more about themselves. They
need to love themselves, forgive
themselves, and be selfish about their
own dreams and goals, instead of
giving them all up to and for
someone else.
One of the most important things
you can learn today is unlearning the
things that hold you back from
achieving your full potential. Over
the years, I have worked to let go of
many things that have held me back.
The most powerful one was letting go
of the pain I felt because of certain
wrong decisions I made when I was
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
younger. Now I no longer look back
and wish I could change the past. I
have also learned to identify my
triggers and the patterns that take me
down a negative path. I have always
been an emotional eater, a trigger I
have carried from my childhood.
Whenever I was upset, I would eat,
and I am working hard to unlearn
this habit. I think it comes from a
deep sense of not feeling complete
and trying to feel good using the
wrong methods. I am a work in
progress, trying to improve myself
every day, to overcome old, negative
patterns. When my children are sad,
I don’t give them a piece of candy to
make them feel better. Instead, I
encourage them to really *feel* their
feelings...when my daughter feels
bad, she puts her tiny hand on her
chest to express her sadness.
If I could share a message with the
young women of today, it would be
this: value yourself and step into your
power. I would tell them to stop
comparing themselves to Instagram
models, and be aware that there is an
entire machinery and filters behind
what they see on social media. That
many of these ‘perfect’ images they
see have been carefully constructed
and are not real life. I would tell
them to be themselves, to be unique,
and to be different...it’s what I tell my
kids as well, that their so-called flaw
could be their superpower.”
Photographs: Chandrahas Prabhu; Make-Up:
Rasino Terhuja; Hair: Akram Salmani and Anoop
Gupta; Hair and Make-Up Assistant: Sanchi Tuteja;
Production: Vasudev Garg
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 127
cosmo interview

Digital Content Creator

Kusha Kapila AMBITIOUS and UNAPOLOGETIC, Kusha has turned HER BACK on
her inherent PEOPLE-PLEASING tendencies, turning a blind eye to
the REMARKS from outsiders...in REAL LIFE and on SOCIAL
MEDIA. The CENTREDNESS she operates with, now, is set to TAKE
HER to greater HEIGHTS.
Interview By: Nandini Bhalla

he one after, almost without thinking, I found out, based on my behaviour

thing I began covering my mouth. I felt like online. Each time I get such a
have I should laugh softer. But how much message now, I don’t find it offensive
discarded feedback can you incorporate? because it’s almost like a woman
from my Because the more you are going to looking out for me. This year, many
life, fairly ‘behave’ the way in which people months were messy. But I have come

BHADOO SAHIB
recently, is the desire to change the
opinions of those who disapprove of
me. I am an inherent people-pleaser,
and I’d credit my need to not control
the narrative as part of growing up...
Women are often demonised for
being successful. I have heard
feedback like, ‘Oh, she’s really
hungry for success’, or ‘She’s the
kind of woman who’ll do anything to
get ahead’, which is not the kind of
stuff you hear about a successful
man. But there’s not much you can
do about it. Actor Reese
Witherspoon once said in an
interview that ‘ambition is not a dirty
word’, and I agree with her. Women
are constantly conditioned to look
and be soft, and so any time we want
to be a bit tough, we get attacked.
My first response to negative
feedback is to wonder whether
something is wrong with me. That’s a
very normal feeling to have,
especially when you are in the public
space. For instance, I got this
feedback for my show Comicstaan:
that my laugh is weird, and that I talk
too aggressively and loudly. So soon
approve, the further you’ll move
away from who you are. You are
almost de-authenticating yourself;
you lose yourself in the process.
I couldn’t keep up with it in the
long run.
There’s no secret to not caring
about the opinion of others; it comes
with a lot of practice. As a content
creator in the public space, one can
very easily get caught up in virtual
pleasing. And you don’t do it from a
place of malice or manipulation.
However, it’s more sustainable to live
life authentically, as compared to
living in the energy of being an
‘awesome’, ‘bad girl’, ‘yass girl’—that
can get toxic. You can’t realistically
be in that zone 24/7.
During Covid-19, I started seeing a
therapist for the first time. I actively
began working on myself as a person,
and recognised my triggers. I was
diagnosed with high functioning
depression and ADD. All my life, I
have been made to feel bad for being
messy and zoning out, even by my
peers. But it’s so odd, many women
diagnosed my ADD much before I
to realise that ADD is a very real
situation for me, maybe life-long,
and that’s just the way I live. I don’t
look at therapy or mental illness as
a taboo.
The other day, I was watching
myself on a Koffee With Karan
episode, and I noticed how I have
this need to prove my worth. It’s
almost like I am over-compensating
so that no-one says, ‘She doesn’t
deserve to be here’. I don’t think I
have learnt to live in silence as yet,
and be completely secure in myself.
However, I am learning to say ‘No’,
even though when women say ‘No’,
they’re often perceived as being
mean, b*tch*s, or cold-hearted.
A hunger for success in women is
offensive to people, but I think we
need to be more ambitious, harbour
less self-doubt, and believe in
ourselves a little more. And apologise
a little less. Sorry, not sorry.”
Photographs: Chandrahas Prabhu; Make-Up:
Rasino Terhuja; Hair: Akram Salmani and Anoop
Gupta; Hair and Make-Up Assistant: Sanchi Tuteja;
Production: Vasudev Garg

128 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 BHADOO SAHIB

V-neck, pouf
sleeve, column-
cut midi dress,
Gauri & Nainika
cosmo interview

BHADOO SAHIB

Handcrafted graffiti
dress, Huemn

.IN
 Model

Maleesha
Khar wa
The ‘Princess of the Slum’ has an UNSHAKEABLE SPIRIT and a
CONVICTION that her modelling career will take her PLACES.
She’s just 14-YEARS-OLD, but Maleesha’s JOURNEY is PROOF
that no DREAM is TOO BIG to achieve.
Interview By: Meghna Sharma

BHADOO SAHIB times when the municipal

have dreamt of
being a model for
as long as I can
remember. And
two years ago, my
dream turned
into reality, when I was discovered in
my slum by Robert Hoffman, an
American actor [seen in Step Up 2:
The Streets]. Robert was visiting
India at the time, and he got stuck
as the pandemic hit. And as luck
would have it, a chance meeting with
him changed my life. Ever since, he
has been helping me with my
modelling career.
Living in the slum is not easy.
Sometimes, we do not have clean
water or food to eat. Then there are
corporation breaks our house,
because we live by the sea. When it is
very hot in Mumbai, we have to sleep
on the rocks by the water. But none
of these things could deter me from
going after what brings me joy.
I find it strange when people ask
me how I am such a happy person;
they don’t think it is normal to be
happy because I am poor...but I love
my life. You can be happy even if you
do not have a big house or a nice car
because, to me, having a family that
loves and supports me, and good
friends that care about me, is more
important. As for realising your goals,
if you work hard, there is nothing you
can’t achieve.
I certainly think I am a rulebreaker.
Many people thought I can’t be a
model because I have very dark skin,
but I have proven all of those
naysayers wrong. I no longer care if
someone tells me that I cannot
do something, because I know
that is not true.
Right now, my life is taking me
on adventures that I cannot
believe. I am thrilled that so
many people are reaching out to
me and telling me that my
journey has inspired them to be
unafraid and chase their dreams,
no matter how big or small.
The only advice I would like to
give people is that, in life,
everything is possible...but only if
you try! My journey is proof that
nothing is impossible...you just
need to keep trying.”
Photographs: Chandrahas Prabhu; Make-Up:
Rasino Terhuja; Hair: Akram Salmani and
Anoop Gupta; Hair and Make-Up Assistant:
Sanchi Tuteja; Production: Vasudev Garg

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 131
cosmo interview

On Sameera: Plumetis
Organza Ruffled Body
Dress, Gauri & Nainika

On Maleesha: classic
ruffle dress, Shriya Som

On Kusha: V-neck, pouf

sleeve, column-cut midi
dress, Gauri & Nainika

BHADOO SAHIB
BHADOO SAHIB
cosmo interview

BHADOO SAHIB

Metal wire sculpted jacket,

Rimzim Dadu; Wind Earrings,
H&M Studio
 Sexual Health Media Expert, Gender Justice Activist, and Writer
Dr Varuna
Srinivasan
She is DETERMINED to DEBUNK
HETERONORMATIVITY, and make space for QUEER
FOLKS, using her own JOURNEY as an EXAMPLE.
Interview By: Meghna Sharma
have been a
rulebreaker all
my life. Especially
as a woman, who
is constantly told
to behave or act a
BHADOO SAHIB
certain way, it feels exciting to bend
and break those existing notions.
Gender is a social construct, my
femininity does not define me, and
honestly, my sexuality is so much
more than my damn relationship. So
I refuse to deal with people who
deny my existence and want to erase
my experiences. Earlier, I would
spend hours convincing people that
my sexuality was real. That I was real.
I would reason with biphobes,
homophobes, and transphobes that
LGBTQIA+ people are valid. But no
more of that...I do not have time for
that kind of negativity.
I have learned that the hurdles we
face often prove to be our biggest
motivators, and boy, do I love
challenges. Every single hurdle I
have faced propped me up for
greater success. The toughest one
was, of course, making the decision
to go public with my queerness. I
came out publicly in 2020, and it
wasn’t easy to put all those personal
experiences on the Internet. But by
doing so, I found joy, community,
love, and acceptance from all
corners. It was profound.
As a sexual health media expert,
activist, and writer, my work focuses
on helping people gain a deeper
understanding of sexual health,
particularly within the South Asian
LGBTQIA+ community. I have also
founded Tara Health Media, a digital
platform built around sexual and
reproductive health education and
empowerment in South Asian
communities. Beyond that, it’s about
helping everyone gain a broader
understanding of comprehensive sex
education. A lot of us, growing up in
a country like India, aren’t really
exposed to queer people. I know I
wasn’t. I felt so trapped within my
own sexuality. I deserved a safe space
to explore myself. I hope that
through my advocacy, people can see
someone who looks like them and
find strength in coming out.
What bothered me earlier was old
friends and partners who felt
insecure when I spoke about
exploring my sexuality. A common
misconception is that for one to
explore their sexuality, they have to
cheat or be promiscuous. It is so
much more than that. It is about
introspection and reflecting on
deeper questions related to gender,
sexual identity, and how it ties to
individuality. While I wanted to make
those relationships work, it really
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
bothered me how much I had to
shrink myself to fit another person’s
comfortable version of me. But I no
longer care about making someone
else feel comfortable about my
choices. (Girl, bye!)
I think one of my best qualities is
resilience, brought on by not just
hope, but also softness. It can be easy
to get jaded, hardened, and bogged
down by the world. We constantly
witness atrocities that bleed into our
lives. As queer people, we are made
out to be the ‘enemy’. We internalise
so much of it. But our resilience and
self-care are forms of resistance.
That’s what makes me a
changemaker. I love myself and my
queer joy is not going anywhere. I
believe there is room for everyone to
not just survive, but also thrive.
One of the most surreal moments
in my life was when my story and
achievements were recognised by
Serena Williams in 2020—it was such
a humbling experience to be
recognised by my idol. If I can offer a
piece of advice from my own journey,
I would say keep living your truth,
and keep telling your story. By talking
about your life, you are continuing to
break the status quo...you are
celebrating your life.”
Photographs: Chandrahas Prabhu; Make-Up: Rasino
Terhuja; Hair: Akram Salmani and Anoop Gupta; Hair
and Make-Up Assistant: Sanchi Tuteja; Videographer:
Shrey Gulati; Production: Vasudev Garg
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 135
cosmo interview
Digital Content Creator and a LGBTQIA+ Activist
Sushant Divgikr
Rani KoHEnur, Sushant’s DRAG identity, won’t STAND for
any DISCRIMINATION against the LGBTQIA+ community.
This is a story about GUTS, GLAMOUR, and GLORY.
Interview By: Nandini Bhalla
ver the
years, I
have
learned
to stop
overthinking my mistakes and
perceived failures. I learn from them,
but I no longer allow them to
consume me.
Today, I am committed to living my
BHADOO SAHIB
truth. But years ago, I had moments
of self-doubt and internal conflict. I
allowed other people’s opinions to
bother me and bog me down,
because I was not entirely
comfortable with myself. It was only
when I understood my potential, and
learnt to authentically love and
accept myself, that other people’s
opinions stopped affecting me. I
think we need to give fewer f*cks
about what other people think of us,
and keep more f*cks for ourselves. If
you want to wear something, wear it.
If you want to do something, do it.
You have to focus on yourself, on
what makes you happy...that’s the
only route to confidence.
Growing up, I faced
discrimination. I was an unsure
teenager. And even after ‘coming
out’, I wasn’t always confident. Even
in the LGBTQIA+ community, there
can be discrimination against ‘types’.
And there remains a fair degree of
internalised homophobia. Just look at
how poorly the trans and gay
communities were represented in
cinema...they were ridiculed and
136 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022
made fun of. It’s sad that not one
actor has apologised for the poor
portrayal of marginalised
communities in movies.
If I could go back in time, to
moments when I felt sad and alone, I
would tell myself not to worry. I would
tell myself to not try and appeal to
people and their expectations. I’d tell
myself to not try and find a place at
the table, but to make my own table.
And if I have a low moment today, I
just put on my ‘big girl’ pants and
remind myself of how far I have come.
I tell myself, ‘You’ve got this!’
When it comes to raising a
generation that is more confident
and comfortable in their skin, the
right parenting can make all the
difference. I come from a middle-
class, God-fearing, Konkani family,
and my parents have been rockstars...
they have supported me throughout
my journey. The truth is that our
childhood largely determines how we
feel about ourselves...if we are
negatively primed at a young age,
that shapes our future. When parents
tell their children they are not good
enough—or say things like, ‘This is
what girls should do and this is what
boys should do’—they can cause
serious emotional damage. This is my
plea to parents: raise your children
with the kind of support they need to
become secure, self-assured adults.
There still remains a lot of work
that needs to be done for the
transgender community. They have
been discriminated against for years,
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
and many continue to resort to
begging or prostitution because they
can’t survive in this world. One
change I hope to see soon is in
regards to policies. Right now, trans
people need to first provide a ‘proof
of surgery’ certificate even to have
access to certain fundamental rights.
And that is just the beginning. For
instance, trans people are still
fighting for inclusive succession
rights—a trans person cannot claim
inheritance because the law only
protects ‘male’ and ‘female’. And they
still need better policies in the spaces
of education, health, employment,
and housing. We need umbrella anti-
discrimination laws in this country.
Whether you are male or female, or
transgender...it doesn’t matter. As for
people to be better allies to the trans
community, they need to understand
the difference between sympathy
and empathy.
I am proud of being able to
represent so many people, of how far
I have come. I am proud that my
music and my art and my drag have
no barriers.
I just hope that I keep making
everybody proud. And that I keep
staying true to myself as an artist.
And, most importantly, I hope that
many, many more people from the
trans community have the
opportunities that I had to fight for.”
Photographs: Chandrahas Prabhu; Make-Up:
Rasino Terhuja; Hair: Akram Salmani and Anoop
Gupta; Hair and Make-Up Assistant: Sanchi
Tuteja; Production: Vasudev Garg
 BHADOO SAHIB

Firefly Red Dress,

QUOD; Drip OH Free
Fall Earrings,
Outhouse Jewellery
 BHADOO SAHIB

Paloma Dress, Malie

 Digital Content Creator and Author
Leeza
Mangaldas
The SEX-ED content creator doesn’t have time for REGRESSIVE RULES and
EXPECTATIONS, in LIFE or in the BEDROOM. Instead, Leeza makes a case
for the right to PLEASURE, CONSENT, and LOVE...for one and all.
Interview By: Nandini Bhalla
ood girls
aren’t
supposed
to act like
that or be
assertive
about what they like’...that’s what
we’ve always heard, isn’t it? But
BHADOO SAHIB
I’ve decided to toss that opinion
out of the window! In fact, I live
my life by my own principles,
every single day. I don’t feel like
I’m trying to create a controversy
or be disruptive for no good
reason. I truly believe that we
need to discard the double
standards around gender
expectations.
When it comes to sex, there exist
very rigid and oppressive
frameworks that many think are
the only acceptable ones—like
how sex is reserved only for the
married, and only between
heterosexual individuals. I don’t
think we should tolerate any sort
of restriction on our basic rights—
the right to bodily autonomy; to
sexual, reproductive health; to
pleasure; and to love whomever
we want.
The trope of the ‘good girl’ has
been around for centuries, and it
has been so cleverly designed, you
don’t even notice you are
participating in it and perpetuating
your own oppression. We are
socialised from such a young age to
internalise the idea that we owe the
world...to be pretty, docile, become a
wife and mother. It’s a double
whammy, though. I had internalised
a lot of it too, even though I come
from a very liberal family. Those who
follow the rules are deemed ‘good’,
and that permeates professional and
educational cultures as well. It’s
about creating a system where you
strive for validation. And honestly, it’s
often easier to conform than to stand
out. Think of it: how many people
stay in a marriage, even if it’s not a
happy one, because divorce breaks
the rules? We’re so concerned about
how others perceive us. And that’s
given more importance than how you
feel about yourself, or whether you’re
really being true to yourself.
Women are constantly denied
agency; why can’t we make our own
decisions? Why can’t we just be on
board with the fact that we deserve to
be able to do things for ourselves?
There is this relentless desire to
control how women can be. It is time
to switch that.
A lot of what I speak about,
through my content, is factual and
physically accurate, so it’s hard to
argue with it. For instance, the
clitoris anatomically exists and is a
point of pleasure. However, I get sl*t-
shamed by trolls who try to attack the
character of the person delivering it.
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
Hello, it’s 2022! It’s going to take more
than calling me a sl*t to shut me up.
Also, why would I feel insulted about
my content? Some people think that
simply talking about sex means it’s an
invitation. Luckily, the vast majority of
my audience understands what I am
doing and appreciates it. For every
shaming message, there are 200
messages saying ‘Thank you’, or that
they learned something from me, or
cheering me on.
Girls are taught to always put
others before themselves, so that
everyone else is comfortable and happy.
In my 20s, I really struggled with this
mindset in all aspects of my life (even in
the bedroom). Whether it’s saying ‘No’
to work that’s not paying you enough or
to expectations from your parents or
family or in-laws, you need to do things
for yourself. I’d constantly apologise to
avoid conflict. To some extent, the
patriarchy has made us this way
because it’s been so relentless, and for
so long. But ask yourself: ‘Am I really
doing things for myself?’ or ‘What is my
body trying to tell me about what’s
missing?’. Today, I use my wonderful
tool of self expression all the time. I
acknowledge who I am, and also that
nobody’s perfect.”
Photograph: Chandrahas Prabhu; Make-Up: Rasino
Terhuja; Hair: Akram Salmani and Anoop Gupta; Hair
and Make-Up Assistant: Sanchi Tuteja; Production:
Vasudev Garg
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 139
cosmo interview

Gynaecologist and Sexual Health Educator

Dr Tanaya
Narendra
DR CUTERUS, as she’s popularly known on social media, is on a
MISSION to DESTIGMATISE SEX and EDUCATE you about your
REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM. And through her PERSISTENT EFFORTS,
she dreams of ERASING the word ‘TABOO’ from our VOCABULARY,
especially when it comes to our BODIES.
Interview By: Meghna Sharma

BHADOO SAHIB Being an outspoken woman on the

s a doctor
with a passion
for education,
I have
completely
dismissed
feeling shame around our bodies.
And I help my patients and
followers to do the same. By doing
so, I am forging my own path—I
don’t know the rules, to be honest.
I am driven by my passion for
medicine, research, and better
public health. And sexual, menstrual,
and reproductive literacy are the
main topics I cover in my work on
the Internet.
Internet tends to bring with it a lot of
hate, especially if you talk about sex.
It took me some time, but I have
developed a thick skin. The trolling
can be especially dramatic when you
talk about bodies—unsolicited d*ck
pics, questions on morality, and
personal attacks are all part of the
game, and frankly, none of it bothers
me anymore.
There is also a lot of censoring
from the online platforms that host
sex education content. But I am
grateful to be able to do what I love,
connect with so many people,
especially women, and help
destigmatise sex, one day at a time.
Having been brought up by sex-
positive doctor parents, conversations
about our bodies were the norm. So,
it was almost as if I was born with this
passion. In my real, offline life, I am
studying to be a gynaecologist with a
specialisation in sexual medicine. I
am also a soon-to-be-published
author with Penguin Random House
India, launching India’s first, path-
breaking book on body literacy and
fertility education.
Along with educating millions
about their bodies, my biggest
achievements include getting
thousands of vulva owners vaccinated
against HPV+, a common virus that
can lead to cervical cancer—the
second most-common cancer
amongst urban Indian women—and
helping women convert to the
menstrual cup, or ‘cupverts’ as we
fondly call them.”
Photographs: Chandrahas Prabhu; Make-Up:
Rasino Terhuja; Hair: Akram Salmani and Anoop
Gupta; Hair and Make-Up Assistant: Sanchi
Tuteja; Production: Vasudev Garg

140 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
BHADOO SAHIB

Naren Tanzanite
Trench Jacket, Kshitij
Jhalori
cosmo interview

BHADOO SAHIB

Author, Mythologist, and Kama Sutra Expert

Seema Anand
After TWO DECADES of EDUCATING people about the
ANCIENT TEXTS of the KAMA SUTRA, Seema has finally
managed to CLAIM A SPACE for the ‘ART OF PLEASURE’
in everyday CONVERSATION.
Interview By: Meghna Sharma
BHADOO SAHIB

Hybrid Saree-
Pants, Huemn
cosmo interview

Not that I took it up to break any

like to think of
myself as a polite
person, but there
are times when
flipping the bird
at people or
situations is necessary. I specialise
in the erotic literatures of ancient
India, and particularly focus on
women’s narratives. A few years ago,
my social group spread a story that
I was a ‘corporate escort’—because
I talk about sex. I had two choices:
I could either offer explanations
and try to win back my so-called BHADOO SAHIB
friends, or say F-off and walk away.
I chose to do the latter, because it is
important to have faith in yourself
and your choices.
When I began talking about the
Kama Sutra 20 years ago, no-one
was discussing it. But I was
determined to introduce it to the
world through platforms like the
Victoria & Albert Museum and the
British Museum, among others, to
give it real credibility. This meant
that my academics, language, and
material had to be impeccable—so
I actually studied it as a serious
subject, (not just ‘read about it’), and
turned it into something that one
could discuss in classrooms as well as
regular conversations.
rules. In my head, I was simply
uncovering narratives that had been
lost. However, people have a habit of
discouraging the ones who might
bring about a wave of change. I was
told there is no such career as a
‘storyteller’, and that ‘pleasure’ was
not a subject for polite society. I was
also told that I couldn’t speak at a
Mahabharata conference because of
my ‘reputation’.
The taboos around female sexuality
are so deep-rooted that women
almost need permission to take
ownership of their own pleasure. I
wanted my kids to know about my
work, and be proud of it, so I insisted
that my work was never kept hidden
from anyone. I have always worked at
my kitchen table with at least 10
copies of the Kama Sutra piled up
there at all times for my kids (or
anyone else) to pick up, read, or ask
questions whenever they wanted.
Reintroducing narratives from our
ancient texts helps bring awareness
and validation to break barriers. I
brought the sari into the UK
corporate sector, and long before
diversity regulations, I was wearing
saris to host management training
and leadership courses. For several
years, my work was dismissed, even
cancelled. Having challenged that
bias, today I am invited to corporate
spaces, specifically in a sari, to help
others find their voice or identity.
But I have not always been this
confident...in fact, I used to be very
insecure. I felt I was ‘less than’
everyone else when it came to, well,
everything—beauty, brains, talent,
and I was desperate for approval.
myself as a ‘narrative activist’, and my
battlefield is these stories. As I try to
change the world one little story at a
time, I am thrilled to receive
messages from women (and men) of
all ages saying that they have finally
found answers and the courage to
explore their own pleasure, despite
the disapproval of society. I have
helped people change the way they
perceive themselves, and reconfigure
the ‘guilt’ narrative that we are fed, in
order to control us.
I admire people who are measured
and calm in their battles, who
understand the power of ‘tiny steps’
and silences. Change is painful, it has
to be done in the teeniest increments
so as not to frighten those around
you. And change is only effective if
you can take everyone with you.
Having the courage to practice the
change I talk about and leading my
life with my beliefs are the
achievements I am most proud of.”
Photographs: Chandrahas Prabhu; Make-Up:
Rasino Terhuja; Hair: Akram Salmani and Anoop
Gupta; Hair and Make-Up Assistant: Sanchi Tuteja;
Production: Vasudev Garg

But, thankfully, I no longer care for

what people think, or feel the need to
fit in. I have created a space for

144 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
BHADOO SAHIB
cosmo interview

BHADOO SAHIB

Sadel Leather
Jumpsuit, Puneet
Kapoor Label
 Indian Circuit and Off-Road
Aishwar ya
Pissay
BREAKING record after record, 27-year-old Aishwarya is COMMITTED to
making a SPACE for WOMEN in a MALE-DOMINATED sport.
Interview By: Meghna Sharma
have had to face
BHADOO SAHIB
a lot of resistance
in regards to
pursuing my
career in
motorsports.
But I have come this far by
prioritising myself and my work. And
everything else—the objections,
criticism, and naysayers—have
always come second.
I started riding bikes as a hobby at
the age of 18, and it quickly grew into
a profession as I began winning races
at the circuit. But my father was
strongly opposed to the idea. He was
of the opinion that since it’s a male-
dominated field, I wouldn’t stand a
chance. Even though I barely had
any support—barring a few close
friends and relatives who believed in
me—I was determined to make it.
Today, I am the first-ever Indian
motorsports athlete to win a world
title at the FIM Bajas World Cup,
where I secured first place in the
women’s category and second place
in the junior category. I am also the
first Indian woman to win multiple
FMSCI Indian National Rally
Motorcycle Racer
Championships. And it is all because
I persevered. I love that I am
rebellious, tough, and persistent, and
I don’t give up, no matter what. And I
am where I am today because of my
determination...my constant drive to
take the opportunity at hand and turn
it into a win.
I have, of course, had my fair
share of accidents (some could have
killed me!), but I never thought
about quitting. I believe my journey
has—and continues to—inspire
many women to take up the sport
they like, and not give a damn
about what society thinks or believes.
It is important for people to realise
that women have tremendous
potential and they can literally be
anything they want to be—athlete,
scientist, entrepreneur, or whatever
their heart desires.
As I strive to constantly beat
records and create a space for
myself in this male-dominated field
of motorsport racing, I would also
like to share lessons I have learned
along the way to help women across
the country realise their dreams.
Personally, I look up to Spanish
motorcycle racer Laia Sanz—she
is an achiever and a very strong
woman, and her journey has really
inspired me.
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
If you want to go after
something, do not get bogged
down by others’ opinions. Only
thinking about something won’t
make it happen...you need to take
charge. And don’t be afraid to
make mistakes. I am proud of
every race that I have won, and I
have learned a lot from every race
that I have lost.
Now, when I look back at
my struggles, they don’t bother
me, and I don’t worry about the
people who didn’t believe in me.
Hard work pays off, and I always
knew that one day, things would
work out for me. So I tuned out
the noise, and kept my eyes on
the prize.
My current goal is to race at
The Dakar Rally—which is one of
the toughest off-road, cross-
country rallies. Making my mark
on this world stage would be
immensely satisfying, and I am
hungry for that.”
Photographs: Manasi Sawant; Hair and
Make-Up: Rakshanda Irani; Hair and Make-Up
Assistants: Virja Mehta and Dinkle Gosrani;
Production: Studio Little Dumpling
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 147
cosmo interview

BHADOO SAHIB

Pink Bra, H&M Studio


In a CAREER spanning OVER 15 YEARS, Bani has battled JUDGEMENT,
TROLLS, and CYNICS to come out VICTORIOUS in her quest to live life on
her OWN TERMS. The 34-year-old “COLLECTOR OF INK” and some
HARDCORE ABS shares her mantra with Cosmo.
Interview By: Meghna Sharma
find it amusing
when people call
me a rebel or a
rulebreaker,
BHADOO SAHIB
because doing the
things we love is
what life should be about. And I have
been following that philosophy all my
life. Having been a part of the
industry since I was 18-years-old, I
am familiar with the pressure to look
like a ‘filtered photograph’, and that
has been further escalated by the
booming social media addiction. I
have definitely seen how hard it can
be for women and men who don’t fit
this ‘ideal’, and how much it affects
their self worth.
Personally, I don’t think about
fitting in. I have always stuck to my
instincts and followed my heart—be
it getting tattoos or lifting weights for
a more defined form. However,
people couldn’t accept that and I
faced rejection at an early stage in my
career—and it wasn’t easy to deal
with. But I continued doing what
made me happy, because in
accepting myself, other people had
no choice but to accept me as well.
And if figuring yourself out and
Actor
serving a higher purpose through
doing what makes you happy are the
qualities that define a rulebreaker—
since it’s not the norm—then I am
definitely one.
Being so heavily tattooed and
working in the film and television
industry is definitely an anomaly,
especially in India. So you can only
imagine that my list of ‘f*ck yous’ is a
long one.
I have said f*ck off to people who
wanted to control what I should look
like. I have said f*ck off to people
who tried to dictate what I should be
doing with my life—and also what I
shouldn’t be doing with my life. I
have said f*ck off to people who don’t
grow on me...’cuz, you know, energy
is so precious. And I have said f*ck
off to my own thoughts about putting
others’ happiness before mine. I
don’t mind it to an extent, but I know
now that I need to love and take care
of myself first.
Full disclosure: people’s judgement
and narrow-mindedness did bother
me earlier. The comments section of
my [social media] profile is rife with
nasty remarks. I have been called a
‘she-male’ and ‘she-hulk’. People
often leave comments saying, ‘OMG,
why do you want to be a boy so bad?’.
But I have learned to no longer care
about haters. Though, funnily, over
the years, comments about my body
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
have drastically reduced, and
become more about my sexuality—
because of the bisexual character I
play on Four More Shots Please!. The
thing is, people just want to slap you
with labels, and sort you into a
column or a box as it helps them not
feel threatened by the ‘unknown’.
I have always had a kick*ss
relationship with my body. My body
has always been home to me. It has
been my faithful companion, and the
trust I have built with mine—with
regards to its capabilities—has only
elevated this relationship further.
Over the years, I have seen how
much my fitness journey has inspired
people—because they have seen how
far I have come, not just physically,
but as a person. Of course, this has a
lot to do with the experiences I have
had in life, but training has been my
anchor throughout—the iron has
truly been my most-consistent
companion in the past decade.”
Photographs: Manasi Sawant; Hair and Make-Up:
Rakshanda Irani; Hair and Make-Up Assistants:
Virja Mehta and Dinkle Gosrani; Production:
Studio Little Dumpling
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 149
cosmo interview

Activist and Founder of SheSays

Trisha Shetty
Trisha has a MESSAGE for people who want her SILENCED: she will
continue to SPEAK UP against INJUSTICES. And she will continue to
SUPPORT WOMEN and show up on-ground to make a DIFFERENCE.
Interview By: Meghna Sharma

am a social
activist deeply
invested in
protecting
democratic
spaces, as well as
defending and protecting human
rights. I think we have done some
groundbreaking work with SheSays.BHADOO SAHIB
One of the biggest wins for us has
been declaring sanitary napkins tax-
free, which is, till date, the largest
global campaign pushing for
menstruating people to have
guaranteed access to menstrual
hygiene and sanitation. In less than
24 hours, we hit over 24 million
impressions on Twitter, and the
campaign [#LahuKaLagaan] is one of
the most widely-used hashtags on
Twitter as well.
But while that was a big win for
me, the reason I continue to show up
on-ground is because of a case where
a four-year-old child had been raped.
After years of working with her
family, and going through repeated
trauma whilst trying to seek access to
justice, the accused got a 10-year
sentence. When survivors of marital
rape reach out to me and say that
they are finally separated from their
abusers...that they are financially
independent, and living a life where
they can just go to bed happy and not
feel like they don’t have access to a
life of dignity or safety...it makes me
realise the difference we have made.
I started my journey as a survivor
of child sexual abuse. And it took a
lot for me to work in this space, and
to do so in a way that didn’t re-
traumatise me. I wanted to offer
solutions that everyone needed, not
just the kind of solutions that I wish I
had growing up. But the death and
rape threats, and the constant attacks
on social media broke me.
I think I didn’t take the correct
approach to heal my deep trauma—
my mental health suffered
tremendously. I would function
between high efficiency and
complete depression, where I
couldn’t even get out of my bed,
or take a shower. And then came
the cycles of guilt, shame, and not
having an identity beyond work. So,
yeah, I have faced many hurdles.
And I am constantly learning how to
overcome them.
At the moment, I like to invest in
things that actively make me happy—
showing up on-ground and helping
people is one of them. Because this
kind of solidarity has benefited me
personally as well. When I was
providing on-ground legal counsel to
peaceful anti-CAA dissenters, I was
subjected to police harassment and
intimidation, and I had random
people show up to protect me, to
ensure I was safe. So I’d say my
work has not only helped make a
difference in other’s lives, it has
also given me everything that I value
today, which is friendships,
solidarity, faith in knowing that
one must double-down on love,
and compassion to protect
democratic spaces.
As for being a rulebreaker, I think
we need to take a step back and
discuss why these rules have been
imposed on us as women. When I
started working, I would get calls to
come speak in certain countries that
are not democratic spaces per se, or
certain institutions even within
democratic spaces where they
would try to police and censor what
I’d have to say. For instance, if you
want to talk about gender equality,
that’s okay, but they don’t want you
to highlight the inequality. They
don’t want you to highlight the
deficiencies in the system. They
don’t want you to highlight the
people in positions of power who
are perpetuating inequality and
violence, and they don’t want you to
hold them accountable. There’s a lot
to be done...and we have to do so
much better.”
Photographs: Manasi Sawant; Hair and Make-Up:
Rakshanda Irani; Hair and Make-Up Assistants:
Virja Mehta and Dinkle Gosrani; Production: Studio
Little Dumpling

150 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 Hand-Embroidered
Himachal Balloon
Sleeve Slit Dress,
Rahul Mishra

BHADOO SAHIB
cosmo interview

BHADOO SAHIB
 BHADOO SAHIB

On Aishwarya:
Sadel Leather
Jumpsuit, Puneet
Kapoor Label

On Bani: SC
Bodysuit and SC
Pants, both H&M
Studio

On Trisha: Knot
bust pleated
dress, Puneet
Kapoor Label
love & lust

The Sex Tips That By: Veronica

Lopez;
Made Cosmo Famous Photographs:
Beth Sacca
And by ‘famous’, we mean ~infamous~.

The Good The Genuinely Bad

GET A
LITTLE
ROUGH
WITH HIS
MANHOOD.
REALLY GRAB
ON TO IT
LIKE YOU’RE
MILKING
A COW.
—JANUARY
2005

BHADOO SAHIB Say this to your

partner in bed:
‘How can something
so good be
non-fattening?’
—January 1972

HOLD A STRING OF PEARLS IN YOUR HAND, SQUEEZE SOME LUBE OVER IT,
AND ROLL THE PEARLS UP AND DOWN HIS PENIS.
—DECEMBER 2000 Woman Holding Magazine: © FOCUS FILMS/EVERETT COLLECTION.

Get a book of erotica Wear a white tee

or a novel with sexy to bed, then Go to a bar that
scenes and ask him to have him suck on has a pool table, darts,
read a particularly hot your nipples through or bowling, and
passage to you out loud. the fabric. make bedroom bets
—February 2017 —April 2017 before the game begins—
a massage for you, a
striptease for him—and
Have him rub a metal spoon over whoever wins gets their
your nipples. The metal feels cool fantasy fulfilled later.
and erotic against your skin. —February 2016
—September 2010

154 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 The year was 1965, a time before a ‘sex tip’ was even really a thing and especially before a national media outlet could
publish any of them exclusively for women. But in her wisdom, Cosmopolitan US legendary editor, Helen Gurley
Brown, said (or at least we like to think she said): ‘F*ck that’. And so publish sex tips for women we did, and have
proudly continued to do ever since. Because good sex isn’t just about satisfaction, it’s about equality, which we see bear
out time and again. So we’ll continue to beat this drum—worry not. Hell, sometimes we’ll beat it so enthusiastically
that it results in the true gems on these pages, highlights from our back issues that run the gamut from the hilarious to
the dated to the ‘still holds up’ to the ‘why the hell did we say that’. Nothing like your own archives to keep you honest!

The ‘Wow, Okay!’

Suck on a candy cane, then

trace his coronal ridge—
the edge of the head of his
p*nis—with your tongue. The
cool, peppermint-y
sensation will make him
tingle all over.
—December 2015
Colour your nipples
with a crazy-coloured
lipstick, like sparkly
purple. He’ll love the
shocking, sexy change
in scenery.
—March 2012

BHADOO SAHIB

TO TURN A MAN ON,

ASK HIM TO HELP YOU....ASK HIM FOR
ADVICE, TO EXPLAIN THINGS TO YOU.
—APRIL 1968
FREEZE SOME GRAPES IN A ZIPLOCK BAG
AND PUT THEM IN YOUR MOUTH ONCE THEY’RE
ICE-COLD. THEN BEGIN ORAL SEX.
—MARCH 1998

Use perfume mixed with Hold his p*nis Stick his p*nis through the
secretions from wild in one hand, and hole of a glazed doughnut.
Eat more frozen yogurt—
animals, like musk or civet. lightly slap it Nibble around it, stopping
low-fat dairy slashes belly
Seeing, hearing, or smelling with the other. to suck him once in a while.
fat, and pudge in that
other animals having sex —November 2010 The sugar beads from your
area can inhibit orgasms.
can be horny inspiration. mouth will tingle on his tip.
—December 2011
—October 1994 —June 2003

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 155
love & lust

BHADOO SAHIB
Moaning
Sex Can
W
e are probably all familiar

Actually
with what moaning
during sex sounds like—
whether from an overly-
dramatic performance in a film or in actual

Turn You
real life. But there are so many questions
when it comes to moaning: why do we do
it (or not), why do some people fake it,
and why does it sound so damn sexy (for
some)? We asked the experts to explain.

On More WHY IS MOANING DURING SEX

A TURN ON—OR A TURN OFF?
For a lot of people, moaning during
Plus, it can make sex sex—either doing it or hearing your
partner do it—can be a huge turn on. But
more pleasurable. what’s going on deep down in our psyche
By Emily Gulla that makes moaning so sexy? Well, it is
 partly because moaning acts as an
aural “sexual stimulus or trigger,”
says Dr Lori Brotto, Canada-
based psychologist specialising in
sexuality, and Executive Director
at Women’s Health Research
Institute. “Triggers are essential for
eliciting sexual arousal in the other
person [you’re with],” she explains.
“However, triggers are so individual.
To one person, an erotic image can
be a sexual trigger and a turn on,
and to another person, it might be
repulsive,” she adds. Which explains
why some people cringe at the
sound of moaning, or might not do it
themselves.
Meanwhile, moaning is also
part of the verbal and non-verbal
cues that we are seeking from our
partner during sex, and that we
give out ourselves, too. “Hearing
noises and moans is just one
really important cue that we are
pleasuring our partner, or that
we ourselves are experiencing
BHADOO SAHIB
pleasure,” explains South Africa-
based psychosexual and relationship
therapist, Catriona Boffard. Which is
what can make them even more of a
turn on.
However, Catriona adds that
hearing moans and noises during sex
can be distracting for some people,
which can make these sounds a turn
off for some, too.
Essentially, there’s no right or
wrong way to be turned on or off by
moaning—it is all down to your own
sexual preferences.
SO WHY DO WE ACTUALLY
MOAN DURING SEX?
While moaning can be hot or not for
different people, there are a number
of different reasons as to why we
actually do it. Is it genuine, or are we
faking it (sometimes without really
realising)?
Photograph: GETTYIMAGES.COM
Catriona says that it is a mixture of
the two. “For some people, they are
more naturally vocal during sex, but
unfortunately, too many people are
informed about sex through porn,
and so think that it is normal to make
noise during sex—even if that means
they have to fake it!”
However, don’t feel that you have
to be overly dramatic with noises
during sex if it isn’t coming naturally,
just because you have seen it in porn.
“Porn is a very unrealistic portrayal
of sex, overall,” says Catriona. “So,
if someone’s sex education has
been through porn, then they may
believe that that is what their partner
wants, and how they ‘should’ be
behaving during sex—even if it feels
completely unnatural to them,” she
continues. So don’t feel pressured to
do something that doesn’t feel right.
WHY MIGHT WE FAKE
MOANING?
Dr Lori explains that we can fake
moans when we are “hyperfocused”
on our performance or feel it is
the only way to communicate
with our partner that the sex is
pleasurable. But if you do not want
to fake a moan just for the sake of
it, Dr Lori suggests using words to
explain to your partner what you are
enjoying instead (or as well). Yes,
communication is key.
Plus, Dr Lori adds, “unfortunately
many people do fake moans, just like
they fake orgasms, simply to make a
partner feel good or to shorten the
sexual encounter if it is painful”—
with these reasons often among
those people give for faking orgasms.
Instead, try talking to your partner
if there is something you are not
enjoying.
CAN MOANING MAKE SEX
MORE PLEASURABLE?
Along with indicating that you
are, you know, having a good time,
moaning itself can *actually* make
sex more pleasurable. Or rather,
stifling any noise can make sex less
pleasurable, says Catriona. “It is
a natural release,” she explains.
“For people for whom sounds are a
trigger—probably the same people
who like dirty talk—moaning can
heighten sexual arousal. It can also,
probably, make a person more
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
attentive to—and tune in more to—
their body’s sensations, which also
amplifies arousal,” adds Dr Lori.
WHAT ABOUT BEING SILENT
DURING SEX?
While moaning can make sex more
enjoyable for some, this can also
mean that some people find it to be a
turn off when their partner is totally
silent. However, there are a bunch
of different reasons for this. “Being
completely silent might indicate that
both partners are holding themselves
back,” says Catriona. “But it could
also simply be because they are both
less vocal about their pleasure, and
could be showing it in other ways.”
Meanwhile, being silent during sex
could also be because some people
are embarrassed to make or hear
sex sounds, adds Dr Lori. “It might
also mean that they grew up with
messages that sex sounds are dirty or
inappropriate, or can relate to anxiety
over making a partner feel bad,”
Catriona explains.
HOW CAN YOU GET BETTER
AT MOANING?
Of course, there is no right or wrong
way to moan, but there are ways
of helping yourself relax during
sex—noises included. “Sex is all
about letting go. And if letting go
and moaning loudly heightens your
pleasure and means you will have
a better experience...go for it,” says
Catriona. And if you don’t feel ready
yet to go full-volume with a partner,
you can always practise by yourself.
“You might try letting go when
you are masturbating,” Catriona
adds, “but don’t force moaning if
it is not natural or comfortable for
you. Sex is not a performance! It’s
about pleasure—and if not moaning
is more pleasurable for you, then
that’s what you should do.” Dr Lori
suggests one should “experiment
with letting their guard down and
settling into vulnerability”. So try
taking this in stages, at a pace you feel
comfortable with, rather than diving
in the deep-end straight away. Q
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 157
you, you, you

WhatBHADOO
Does SAHIB
It Really
Mean to
Have it All?
30 years ago, Cosmopolitan US’
iconic Editor Helen Gurley Brown
bought this divisive phrase to the
masses. Find out what does it
really mean today. By Amy Grier
Photograph: BOA CAMPBELL
 (which was a privilege at the time). Sexism
was rife, and the notion that there was
‘women’s work’ and ‘men’s work’ persisted.
Combined, you can see why Helen’s
message that you could pursue a career
that was challenging and rewarding was
ou may not be a fan of a breath of fresh air. Success, in the form
the term but, back then, of money and a sure-and-steady climb up
‘having it all’ was a big the ladder, suddenly felt attainable—as did
It’s 1982. deal. Helen, who at the financial self-sufficiency.
time had been at the helm That we should have a right to a fulfilling
Shoulder pads of Cosmopolitan career is no longer up for debate, but other
are in, the hair US for 20 years, was “a trailblazer in measures of equality are taking longer
the women’s liberation movement”, than we’d like (gender pay gap, we see
is big. White says Canada-based Kaitlynn Mendes, you) and barriers to work still exist in the
wine spritzers professor of gender, media, and sociology form of social mobility, racial inequality,
at the University of Leicester. “Rather and prohibitive childcare costs. The ‘all’ we
are the height of than being bound to the home, ‘having are looking for now comes in the form of
chic and Culture it all’ represented ambition beyond what equal pay for equal work, flexible working
was expected of women at the time.” (for childcare, mental health or side-hustle
Club gets you on Even though Helen did not invent the reasons), and a job that aligns with our
the dance floor. phrase, she made it shorthand for the value systems.
notion that women can have a family, For Shikha*, 29, ‘having it all’ as a writer
Women are career, and good sex. However, some is about the freedom to make changes to
stealthily have since said it applies unnecessary how she works. “I have gone part-time in
pressure to women to be all things to my day job—the fact that I can afford my

way up the BHADOO SAHIB

working their all people. Men have also quite rightly
raised that they want the freedom to
spend time raising their family, too. It also
professional left little nuance for race, sexuality and
ranks. Hell, gender identity, focusing on heterosexual
cisgendered women.
there is even a So I am not here to debate whether we
woman running can or cannot ‘have it all’. That argument
has been had to death on every platform,
the country (hi, by everyone from politicians to prize-
Maggie aka winning feminist scholars (and Oprah
Winfrey) and all of us in between. No.
Margaret What I want to know is, what does the
Thatcher). Oh, ‘all’ entail now?
and everyone
CAREER
you know is
When my mum had me in 1985, just
reading Having three years after Helen’s book came out,
It All: Love, she was one of the few women in her
friendship and family circle who worked
Success, Sex, full-time. I was so proud of her. She
Money (Even If worked her *ss off and was an incredible
role model to me, but it was not easy for
You Started her, either in or out of the workplace. As
With Nothing) 1980s consumerism and rising costs of
living took hold, women like my mum
by Helen Gurley went to work because they had to or,
Brown. in some cases, because they wanted to
mortgage and to build up my freelance
work brings me a lot of joy. I am not
commuting as much because I am working
from home, which means I am more in
control of my time.”
It was a similar situation for Amira*, 38,
who has a side hustle as a personal trainer
alongside her corporate day job. Whereas
the status tussle of the 1980s was about
wrestling the corner offices and fat-cat
salaries off men, the new marker of having
made it in the workplace is making your
job work as hard for you, as you do for it.
It seems that while the pressure to secure
a successful corporate role that promises
promotions and pay rises has diminished, it
has been replaced by a new-found pressure
to do something you love. And if it delivers
good social media #Content, even better.
“Social currency—Likes, Engagement,
Followers—is the new “having it all”,
Amira told me.
I can certainly relate. I left my role as
Executive Editor at this very magazine
(Cosmo US), a job which made people
squeal, ‘Oh wow!’ when I told them.
I am now on a new path in advertising,
something I have wanted to do for years.
It is more money, just as creative, and a

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 159
you, you, you
challenge after 15 years of doing
the same thing. But...I nearly didn’t
take this step. Why? I was worried
about what people would think. The
career ‘all’ has become a proverbial
stick we beat ourselves with if we
do not think we are living up to the
standards of our peers: peers whose
own career success is both wildly
inflated and a million times more
visible because of social media.
Eva Echo, 42, a former musician
and trans-activist based in the UK,
says that this external pressure to be
constantly ‘on’ lifted the minute she
came out as trans. “I had a light-bulb
moment when I was on tour with
a band I had always loved. It was
supposedly a career dream come
true, but I wasn’t feeling it. I wasn’t
my authentic self. Since coming
out as trans, [my ‘having it all’] is
about the things I had overlooked.
Moments that enrich our lives,
rather than things we hope will give
them meaning,” she says.
FAMILY BHADOO SAHIB
By far, the most divisive part of the
‘have it all’ canon was telling women
that they did not have to choose
between being a mum and being
a boss, because it was more than
possible to be both. And yet...only
six of the 462 pages in Helen’s
original book discuss children, and
she did not have any of her own.
Today, the way we feel about
motherhood is starting to shift from
the expectation that ‘of course you’ll
have them’ to an acceptance that it
is an individual choice. For Amira,
there’s been an expectation from her
family that she’d have children—
despite her choosing not to. “For a
decade, everyone around me was
popping out babies. Even though
I had a strong inclination that it
wasn’t for me, I still had to keep
asking myself: is this what society
and culture wants me to do, or is
it what I want?” she explains. Of
course, what we view as a family unit
has also changed over the decades.
160 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022
With one in five young people now
identifying as LGBTQIA+ (and
only 72 percent as ‘completely
heterosexual’), the question of where
children fit into today’s ‘all’ is more
complex than ever.
For UK-based Lotte Jeffs, co-host
of the LGBTQIA+ podcast Some
Families, having a child with her
wife was deeply important, but
despite having a killer job, creative
side hustle, and a daughter, ‘having
it all’ still feels intangible. “With two
women, there is a sense of being ‘all
in’ with parenting. We both got up
in the night to do feeds and almost
never book babysitters because
we want to be with our daughter
as much as we can. The downside
is both trying to juggle full-time
parenting with jobs. My wife and
I both want to be successful and
great mums. It is two women trying
to have it all and not necessarily
succeeding.” For Lotte, being queer
means that she “wants a good job,
family, house with a garden. But to
not feel like I am doing a disservice
to my otherness by embracing this
very heteronormative idea. There
is a sense of queerness versus
convention.”
Even if you have had a family,
it doesn’t always feel like you are
living your best life, as mother-of-
one, Alisha*, 32, explains: “it’s added
another side to my identity—I am
no longer a teacher, swimmer,
sister, and an excellent friend. I am
a mum, too. But if anything, I feel
less like I have it all than I did pre-
motherhood, as I feel like I am doing
a sh*t job at home and at work.”
Then there is me. I am in that
category of women who feel like
they’ll never be a success until they
have a family of their own. Having
a family has been the only part of
my own success story that I cannot
control—and that is painful. There
is a part of me that, as a 36-year-
old single woman in London, feels
forever infantilised without a family.
My own personal ‘all’ is that I want
a family, and I am currently coming
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
round to the idea that, if I do not
find a partner who wants the same,
I will do it alone. Perhaps the only
saving grace is that, being a woman
with a certain level of freedom and
privilege, I can choose to do just
that—even if it sometimes feels less
like a choice, and more like a bad
consolation prize.
SEX
It’s hard to comprehend just how
revolutionary Cosmopolitan and
Helen were when it came to sex.
Her first book, Sex And The Single
Girl [1962], encouraged women to
go out and experience sexual
pleasure before marriage. Having
It All has a huge chapter on sex,
covering orgasms, affairs (yours and
theirs), erectile dysfunction, and
blow jobs. Yes, it is heteronormative,
but for its time, it was a lighthouse
to women drowning in a sea of
male sexuality.
While attitudes towards female
sex have come on leaps and
bounds since the 1980s, there is
still work to be done. “For years,
I have argued with my girlfriends
that women’s pleasure is equally
important as men’s,” says Amira,
who’s now in a same-sex relationship
for the first time. “For me, it’s
non-negotiable that both parties
should aim to experience orgasm.
Knowing that inequality in sex exists
and is common leaves me feeling
uncomfortable.”
For Megan Wallace,
Cosmopolitan UK’s sex and
relationships editor, the ‘all’ when
it comes to sexual fulfilment for
women and non-binary people
is “rejecting the social scripts
about what pleasure should look
like and instead crafting our own
definitions—whether by ourselves
or with partners. It is also about
looking past the pressure to have sex,
masturbate or be in a relationship at
all, respecting individuals across the
asexuality spectrum and asserting
our right to choose.”
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you, you, you
BHADOO SAHIB
“While attitudes towards female
sex have come on leaps and
bounds since the 1980s, there is
still work to be done.”
Of course, it’s still not easy to
do. Mahima*, who is of Punjabi-
British heritage, says, “We now
recognise that women can be sexual
and it doesn’t make them a ‘sl*t’.
However, there are still taboos for
women from different cultures, trans
women, women who are disabled,
plus-size, and so on, so we need to
accept that people see sex in many
162 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022
different ways.” It’s something
Amira also relates to. “I am one
year into a same-sex relationship.
Unfortunately, it is
not something I feel I’ll be able
to share with my parents or wider
family. There is still a lot of cultural
stigma around homosexuality in
Muslim communities. What I am
lacking is the freedom to live as
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
openly as I would like.” With sexual
harassment and victim-blaming still
rife in our culture, it’s clear that
there is a long way to go before
we can truly say we can ‘have it all’
when it comes to sexual equality.
But there are glimmers of hope.
The rough-sex defence has been
banned, it is now illegal to threaten
someone with revenge porn, and the
sex-positivity movement continues to
thrive across social media and other
outlets such as this one.
CULTURE
If Helen were to write having it all
today, alongside the chapters on
sex, friendship and career, there
would be one on social media. So
many crucial things have shifted
since Cosmopolitan launched, but
it is hard to find something that’s
had a deeper impact on the way we
feel about ourselves and the world
around us, than social media.
“Maybe ‘having it all’ is about
having a lot of online followers,” says
Professor Kaitlynn. “Most people are
aware of how on-display their lives
are, and they take care in curating
an online image that they think
looks desirable. For the younger
generation, I am not sure that career
success is displayed as much as
personal success—the right look,
clothes, friends, partners, parties.”
I am technically an older
millennial and, even for me, the
notion of visibility is tied tightly
to the way I perceive myself. I
don’t want it to be, but it is. It
affected how I felt about my new
job (‘Would my peers in journalism
think I had sold out?’) and how I
feel about children—with every
new baby picture someone posts,
my own success barometer falls a
couple of points. In the 1980s, if you
got a new job or got married (or lost
all your money and divorced your
husband in a blaze of glory), only
those you told would know. Today?
It could be viral in the time it takes
to press ‘share’.
you, you, you
BHADOO SAHIB
But it’s not all bad. Social media
can also be a tool for connection, a
voice for marginalised communities
and a way to galvanise movements
(Me Too, Black Lives Matter, etc).
It is crucial to realise that even
the idea of visibility as a marker of
the ‘having it all’ kind of success
we might lust after is itself also
dependent on your community. If
you are a trans person, for example,
your benchmarks for visibility may
be different, as Eva explains. “50
years ago, trans people could not
simply come out and be visible in
164 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022
society. If we weren’t hiding in plain
sight, we were relegated to the
fringes of society. Yes, we still face
stigma, criticism, violence...but we
have come a long way. As a trans
woman and part of the LGBTQIA+
community, ‘having it all’ means the
right to exist freely, to be ourselves
and to have what other already
have.”
Instead, Eva measures success in
terms of her chosen community. “It’s
taken me until this point in my life
to be able to say I ‘have it all’ when
it comes to great people around me.
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
From a loving wife to friends and
followers online to being signed to
two great agencies...I am surrounded
by a chosen family.” After speaking
to her, I have vowed to measure
my success by the strength of those
relationships I actively choose, rather
than those I passively follow.
ALL IN
30 years ago, ‘having it all’ was
about the proliferation of things.
The bringing together of entities
that previously existed for women
in silo—a career and a family; sex
and love; meaningful friendships
and a job outside of the home; your
own cash and a partner. It was about
saying yes to the ‘and’, and it was
the catalyst for demanding equal
opportunities in the workplace—as
well as in the bedroom and when it
came to raising children.
Now, we are in the middle of a
seismic shift where we want the right
to separate out those things again
and, crucially, say no to the parts
we do not want. Having it all could
be as much about everything you
choose *not* to have. A career, but
no kids. To invest your energy in a
side hustle, not the job that pays the
bills. To have a public life on social
media separate from your private
life. The pressure piled upon us to
be perfect at all those ‘ands’ is still
there of course. Judgement still rears
its ugly head when we go against
what is expected of us. But even
though we are not quite there yet, if
the advances of the past 50 years are
anything to go by, I am hopeful. Q
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you, you, you

D
ear beautiful Your surroundings
woman, I started might try to place you on
this article a spectrum of purity and
intending to highlight the goodness, comparing you
issues that women face to other women, all this
when it comes to dating serves one purpose: to
and relationships. And divert you from the real
then I thought to myself: plague of the world—
‘You do not need one patriarchy. Your value
more article that reminds is not dictated by how
you of the realities that good of a ‘good girl’ you
you are already living.’ are, nor is it determined
You need words that by the words you choose
remind you of how much not to say out of fear of
power you have over life. being labelled as too
And that includes the loud or too opinionated.
relationships you choose Your value is not dictated
for yourself. So take from by the inches of skin you
these words what you choose to show or cover,
need to hear right now. nor is it diminished by
I know how difficult the number of years you
it is to navigate MORE choose to do something
relationships when so POWER for yourself, because you
much of your worth is
equated by how your
environment perceives
BHADOO SAHIB TO
YOU!
want to.
Specifically when it
comes to relationships,
you, by your reputation. your value is not
But remember that you determined by a man
are not isolated in your
experience. The truth is,
women all over the world
It’s Time to choosing you. You have
the power to choose
who you want to spend
face challenges when it
comes to making choices
for themselves. We live in
Stop Giving your life with and how
you go about making
that choice. A ring
a widely misogynistic and
patriarchal world. And in
a world like this, women’s
a Damn on your finger does
not add to your value.
Marriage is not the end
choices come with costs.
See the women around
you as allies, not as points
About goal. A relationship
in which you feel
nourished, respected,
of comparison.
Perhaps you are
feeling pressured to get Roles and celebrated for the
woman you are is the
goal. So, do not lose
married by a certain age,
or to convince a man
to see you as worthy of and Rules sight of your goal in
your pursuit of proving
to those around you
Photograph: AMAN MAKKAR

marriage. Because what that you are good and

man would want a woman UK-based author and activist obedient. Choose
who does not need him, Najwa Zebian on how the for yourself. So dear
right? If that is the case, beautiful woman, what
I’d like to remind you:
relationships you choose will give choice do you need to
you are not alone. you power over your life. make today? Q

166 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
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you, you, you

START What do
your mornings
You’re at work when your sibling look like?
texts you (again!) with family drama. You:

No tech before I check my inbox

Ignore it, Make a note Respond 9am, my as soon as I open
duh. to reply later. immediately. friend. my eyes.

Am I It’s a skill
many of
BHADOO SAHIB us never

Bad At properly
learned—
but definitely

Setting should.
By Hannah
Smothers

Boundaries?
Your parents are coming for a visit.
The news cycle is le horrible.
Where do they stay?
How do you deal?

A nearby I am on the With a lot of With doom-

hotel. couch; they mental health scrolling
are in my bed. breaks. spirals.
 Your BFF says she needs How does the word Your BFF is getting married
to vent, but you are ‘boundaries’ soon (yay!), but the bride
already stressed. You: make you feel? has a lot of demands (oof).
Your take is:

It’s all about It’s her day—

Tell her I can Pick up Fine! They Boundaries?
managing she can do
chat later on the are totally Isn’t that a new
expectations. whatever
tonight. first ring. healthy. bar in town?
she wants.

A colleague tries to gossip A friend’s in town last- Someone questions

about someone you know minute, and you are a boundary you set.
and like. You: booked solid. You: What do you do?

Cancel Squeeze her in

Stop them mid- Pretend to Politely defend Get frustrated
something for dinner—I
sentence—I listen while it—I have and soften my
small and guess I’ll sleep
do not need checking my worked hard on stance.
meet her for next week.
to get in the e-mail. these.
coffee. B
middle.
A

Do you check work BHADOO SAHIB

e-mail after you leave
Your family has
different political views
than you, and you have
Your co-worker asks for help
even though you’re already
swamped. You:
Photograph: HORMIS ANTONY THARAKAN; SOURCE: MELISSA RUSSIANO, A CALIFORNIA-BASED LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER

the office?
told them to:

Without fail! Go ahead and Tell her I can Drop

Sometimes Avoid talking
pitch in once I everything to
I peek at my politics with me spout off—I am
unbothered. finish my own help her out.
dumpster fire of at all costs.
an inbox. project. C
A
B

You should teach the class You’re definitely not ‘bad’ at Sorry, but this isn’t your
A B C
on this stuff. this, just a little hesitant. strong suit...yet.

You’re basically the queen of setting
(and sticking to!) healthy limits, which
is a BFD because boundaries are hard
to enact and even harder to maintain.
It’s definitely worth it though: people
who have this figured out tend to be
happier and less stressed. So keep
doing what you’re doing, and if you
ever find yourself in need of a mental
reset, take a look at what’s draining
you (work? family? relationships?
all of the above?) and consider how
you might create new self-protective
parameters in those areas.
Like so many others, you try to set
personal boundaries, but yeah, it’s
difficult when people are constantly vying
for your attention. If you are struggling,
remind yourself that this takes practice
and that it’s important to have these
limits so you don’t end up feeling
overwhelmed and underappreciated.
You can only work effectively if you rest
effectively, and that same logic applies
to all areas of your life. Making your
boundaries a little more concrete will
improve the quality of your friendships,
relationships, and free time.
If you landed here, you may be a doom-
scrolling people pleaser, but hey! At
least you’re now fully aware that you’re
prone to spreading yourself thin for the
sake of others. Focus first on carving
out time for rest and letting the people
in your life know when you need a break.
Have a convo with your boss about
your need for better work-life balance,
or start integrating more ‘No, thanks’
or ‘Sorry, I just can’t’ responses into
interactions with friends. While you’re
at it, put your phone on Do Not Disturb
every once in a while. You’ve got this! Q

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 169
you, you, you

So, Should I Just

Keep Watching My
Friend Mess Up?
It is all about perspective—and boundaries, says
our advice columnist, therapist Minaa B.

BHADOO SAHIB

Photographs: MEHTAB MANN

Dear Minaa,
One of my best friends from college and
I are still close, but our friendship has
changed a lot over the past few years. I think
part of it stems from her spending most of
the pandemic alone and feeling isolated. We
talk a lot about how frustrated she is with
her dating life and how she has recently
taken steps to ensure that she can be a
parent without a partner. Lately, she’s been
playing with the idea of starting IVF soon-
ish—and she just turned 30. In my opinion,
she’s getting a bit ahead of herself. Another
change: she’s making an effort to stand up
to toxic people in her life and let them know
how they have wronged her. Now, most of
our conversations centre on how she plans
to call them out or on rehashing these bad
interactions over and over again.
While I am happy to see she’s taking
charge of her life, I am worried she is
creating new problems that will have a
negative impact on her mental health. I
should say that she does see a therapist
regularly, takes mental-health-related
medication, and, in theory, prioritises her
BHADOO SAHIB
emotional well-being. But even so, her
overall personality has shifted to become
more negative and generally angry at the
world. It has gotten to the point where I
have been thinking about spending some
time away from her.
Honestly, I think she is getting in the way
of her own happiness—and that’s hard to be
around and upsetting to witness—but is it
my place to say anything? If not, what can I
do to support her?
Dear Reader,
First, you should know it is normal and healthy for friendships to
change over time. That’s especially true for friends who meet in
college. At that stage, you were still trying to figure out what you
wanted your lives to look like—and that was likely very different from
where you are both at right now.
I also want to normalise what your friend has gone through since
the pandemic started: all of the things coming to the surface for
her—dealing with loneliness, frustrations with dating, thinking more
seriously about parenting—came up for many people during the past
couple of years. And it sounds like she is now doing the things she
genuinely believes will make her happier in the end.
The thing I am curious about is the way
you feel her decisions have affected your
Who gets to relationship or even you personally. The next
time she fills you in on everything going on in
determine her life, try to sit with any upsetting feelings
that arise and ask yourself, ‘What’s at the root
what makes of these emotions?’, ‘Am I uncomfortable with
her dumping her problems on me, or is it the
her happy? fact that she’s doing something I don’t agree
with?’. If you realise that her unloading on
you every time you hang out is the issue, it might be time to set some
boundaries. You can start by saying, ‘You know, when you talk about
all these negative issues, it is really emotionally overwhelming and I
feel like it is impacting our relationship’. It is a tough conversation to
have, but it can help you preserve the other parts of your friendship.
Or maybe it is not the problem-dumping that’s bothering you.
Maybe it is that she’s doing things you totally disagree with. When
friends share stuff, they are inviting us into their business. So you are
welcome to give your opinion about whatever it is she brings up—and
maybe doing so will make you feel better. Like, if she says she has
decided to start IVF, you could reply, ‘I think you are doing this too
soon and you should give yourself more time to think this through’.
That’s a normal and healthy conversation—just reassure her that you
are not judging, you support her, and you only want to be truthful.
If she doesn’t take your advice and you are upset by that, dig
deeper into your reaction. It likely has more to do with your emotions
than your friend’s choices. You ask if she’s getting in the way of her
own happiness, but who gets to determine what makes your friend
happy? Are you projecting what you think happiness looks like onto
your friend?
I also wonder if you feel like you need to rescue her or fix things
for her? But even though it can feel scary (for both of you), your
friend has to make her own decisions and learn from whatever
happens next. If her actions do end up creating new problems or
negatively impacting her mental health, that’s on your friend. It’s not
your responsibility.
Listen, you are not a bad person for wanting your friend to do what
you think is best for her. Ultimately, you love her and want to protect
her. But it sounds like she’s doing what she thinks is best for her, and
I’d love for you to see her decisions from that perspective instead of
from a place of fear or worry. Overall, you two would definitely benefit
from more open and honest conversations while staying mindful of
your boundaries and hers. That’s the best way to help her right now. Q
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 171
work

Dear Minaa,
I’ve been in my current job
for more than three years

I Hate now and my co-workers are

some of my best, real-life
friends (two of them were

My even bridesmaids in my
wedding). I really love the
work I get to do at the

Boss, company—not only is it

challenging in an exciting
way, but I am actually
motivated to go the extra
mile because my work has
started to feel personally
rewarding.

But
There is just one major
problem, in the form of my
new (micro)manager. We

I Love
have worked together for
only a few months so far,
but I swear she has it out

My
for me. She is incredibly
aloof, and the only time she
interacts with me is when
she’s shooting down one

Job.
BHADOO SAHIB of my ideas or asking me
for constant—and I mean
constant—updates on my
projects.
I have tried to stay
positive, but lately I’ve been
feeling miserable. I just

What cannot get past the feeling

that she hates me—and that
she does not trust me to get

Do my job done. I do not want

to quit my job, but I can’t
handle the daily stress and

I Do? toxic vibes I get from her.

Is there anything I can do...
besides leave?

There is you-should- Dear Reader,

If you take one thing
quit toxic, and then away from this, let it be
there’s toxic you can
Photograph: NISHANTH RAMAKRISHNAN

the fact that your boss’s

do something about, management style has
nothing to do with you.
says New York- The way she works is just
based therapist an extension of her internal
world and how she projects
Minaa B. it onto others. When it
comes to leaders who
micromanage their teams, it

172 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 often means they are struggling with their own issues of insecurity
or anxiety. In your case, your boss might feel anxious about being
new, and that might be expressed in the form of asking for updates
all the time or being picky about your ideas. It is also possible that
she thinks this is the best way to support a team.
I’d first encourage you to think about what she might be going
through in this new job. Maybe she is having a hard time fitting in.
Being mindful of that enables you to have a little more empathy,
which often goes out the window when we are on edge. That said,
it makes sense that her style is really stressing you out, especially
because it seems you’re putting the blame on yourself. Thoughts
like “she’s shooting down all my ideas, so she must hate me” set
you up for a rough time
at work. But if you can
re-frame your thinking
“When a leader from “she has it out
for me” to ‘the way she
micromanages, it manages people isn’t
often means about my abilities or
ideas’, you can release
they are struggling yourself from some of that
toxicity.
with their own It also might be worth
issues of insecurity having a hard conversation
with her because the
or anxiety.” micromanaging likely

BHADOO SAHIB won’t stop unless someone

addresses the issue. You
could start by explaining
how her actions make you feel. That may sound like, ‘I feel like you
do not trust me with my work responsibilities when you ask me for
updates more than twice a day’.
The next step—and this is an important one—is to invite some
curiosity into the conversation by asking open-ended questions. So
you might say, ‘I’d like to understand why you prefer to be updated
in this way’. Or ‘I notice that when I bring certain ideas to you, you
don’t align with them. Do you have some feedback as to what I can
do differently?’ This puts the responsibility on your manager to
explain her needs and concerns, and address her behaviour.
Whether a manager gives helpful insights or not, their response
is data you can use to navigate your working relationship with them.
If they say they just really like knowing what you’re up to all the
time, try to keep in mind that it’s not a personal attack. You can
adjust by learning to make space for proactive radical acceptance,
which means accepting things for what they are and refocusing
where you exert your energy instead of trying to control your
manager’s behaviours.
Because this is an environment that you don’t want to leave,
try not to reduce your entire work experience to this one person.
That gives her actions way more power than the team you care for
and have a healthy relationship with. Ultimately, though, if your
situation with your boss becomes too much to bear, see what kind
of support your company’s HR offers when it comes to issues like
micromanagement. And if even that goes nowhere, it may be time
to think about quitting. Q

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 173
work

“Following The job market is

tough to navigate
and dream roles
Your Passion are hard to come
by. Here is some

is Bullsh*t” advice from

experts, as well as
those starting out.
And Other BS-Free Throw traditional job-
By Jessica Goodman hunting methods out
and Shambhavi the window and get
Career Advice Dutta realistic
“In downtimes, you don’t
have much control over
the opportunities that
are presented to you, so
‘following your passion’ is
bullsh*t. My experience
after graduating in 2007
was like riding on a
raft and grabbing any

BHADOO SAHIB opportunities within

reach. I held on to the
ones that were interesting
and used them to pull
myself along. And I used
the miserable ones to
launch myself in a new
direction. As I have
floated down the river,
I have collected a tonne
of ideas and experiences
that I carry with me—
and that makes me very
good at my job, even if it’s
a million miles away from
where I started.”
Sasha S., strategy
director at a marketing
agency

Structure your resume

Photographs: NISHANTH RADHAKRISHNAN

as per the role

“It is best to format
your resume that is in
accordance with the
job profile and the kind
of organisation you are
applying to. When a
hiring manager goes

BHADOO SAHIB
through heaps of applications, they
prefer reading and only remember
ones that are customised as per the
role. This is where a custom cover
letter will leverage your case as it
helps the recruiter understand why
you could be the ideal candidate for
the job profile.”
Shamika Haldipurkar, Founder
and CEO at d’you
Be open to change
“The past two years have
reprogrammed our work culture. And
even as we are back to working from
offices, we are still trying to adapt
to new ways of functioning. This is a
great time to ponder upon how you
want your career to look like in the
next few years. Be keen on exploring
new business models because you
may end up finding one of them to
be more lucrative than the other. It
will also give you the opportunity
to negotiate your flexibility and
freedom.”
Srimoyi Bhattacharya, Founder,
My Peepul Consulting
Know your worth
“I graduated in 2019, and most of
my friends started applying for jobs.
I forgo the job market and, instead,
applied for my postgraduation. Later,
I took up a remote internship with
a boutique firm, and two months
later, I started looking for full-time
jobs. But I couldn’t find one that paid
me my worth. In fact, there were
barely any jobs available for those
who had pursued their masters.
Even if there were jobs, they paid
peanuts. I am still looking for a job
that doesn’t paint a picture of a hand-
to-mouth existence. While I get that
money shouldn’t be a key motivation,
especially when I have just begun, but
I believe it’s important to know your
worth so you don’t settle for less than
you know you deserve.”
Saubhagya Prasad, Freelance
Filmmaker
Perseverance is the key
“I always wanted to be a journalist,
but the truth is there is no such thing
as a dream job. During the recession,
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
GO GET
IT!
when I was applying in the job
market, I realised journalists couldn’t
afford living in London. Therefore,
I moved to marketing. Little did I
know that my other 200 peers had the
same back-up plan. Now, there’s 201
of us fighting for the same jobs [there
are only so many marketing positions
available for beginners] with the same
skills. Earlier, there was a list of the
top 10 companies I wanted to work
for, which soon became close to 100
firms. Eventually, I had to settle for
the best job I could get. Meanwhile,
I continue to apply and reapply until
I get what I have aimed for. Looks
like the recession has taught me the
art of perseverance.”
Nitya Kanoria, Associate, Investor
Communications at JPIN Q
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 175
tech

What’s
the
Future of
Smartphones?
In a tête-à-tête with Cosmo,
Carl Pei, Founder of Nothing,
talks about the ever-evolving
smartphone industry, the
result of living in ‘Gram land,

BHADOO SAHIB
and why quality in tech
supersedes everything.

INTO
THE
FUTURE

Cosmo: How did you decide to

launch Nothing? Tell us the story Nothing Phone (1) was introduced Technology that’s great, is easy to use
behind the name. in the market, it not only helped us and becomes a part of our lives... We
By: AISHWARYA SATI; Photograph: BIKRAMJIT BOSE

Carl Pei: “The journey was a bit
tough, because we launched Nothing
during the pandemic. The supply
chain was disrupted and it was hard
to convince people to work with a
small company. We began working
from a modest bar in London, and
the situation improved with the
launch of the Nothing Ear (1) Stick
Wireless Earbuds. And once the
raise funding, but also improved the
company’s overall condition.
During the ’80s and ’90s, the tech
industry was defined by Sony’s
Walkman, CD players, and MP3
devices. And later, Apple took over
the market. However, ever since the
launch of Phone (1), people have
been intrigued by what the future
could possibly hold for smartphones.
don’t think much about it because of
how deeply it gets ingrained in our
daily existence.
This is what we aim to do as a
brand as well, by building a firmly-
linked ecosystem. Hence, the name
Nothing. We are trying to craft
products that aren’t just intuitive, but
also improve our lives without
becoming a hindrance.”

176 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
C: The Internet has the market. Building the right brand that is a critical feature in a
revolutionised how we use our identity of the brand and an smartphone. It’s imperative to
phones... ecosystem with the help of strong understand that a phone is supposed
CP: “Over the past decade, we have software experiences can truly help. to be a utilitarian object. It needs to
seen a lot of tech ‘trends’. There were Young, savvy users have moved have a solid base with a reliable user
the drones, VR [Virtual Reality] was beyond just brand names, and are experience at its most intrinsic level.” Q
really hot, and then there’s AR equally interested in the build and
[Augmented Reality]. Yet, nobody has design of a device.”
been able to replace the role of
smartphones in our lives. But, you C: What, according to you, is a
know, when it comes to how must-have feature in any phone?
smartphones are built, we are nearing CP: “It can’t be a single feature,
the final stage of what a product could because a smartphone is such an
be like. I think the next wave of integral product in our lives. It’s like
innovation will come in the form of a an everyday companion, and that’s
multi-device experience. For why it needs to be balanced—I’d say
instance, we just pushed an update to
let our users control their Teslas with
their phones. Hopefully, we might “It is imperative
have answers to questions like: ‘How
do you tie all the devices together in a to understand
more seamless manner?’ or ‘How can
users control their lives better?’...”
that a phone is
supposed to be a
C: We live in a world of Instagram
and there is a lot of focus on utilitarian object.”
BHADOO SAHIB
cameras. Do you think the future
of smartphones will depend on
the quality of the camera?
CP: “Most companies are run by
professional managers; none of the
original founders are helming them.
So the approach becomes: ‘Let’s ask
the consumer what their most
important feature is’. The camera is
the first priority. Next, companies
look at what their competitor is doing.
Apple has three cameras? You’ll be
offered a smartphone with four, to be
ahead of the curve.
But most users only use the main
and secondary cameras. The third
and the fourth ones are practically
obsolete, so brands put cheap
cameras just to offer an optical
illusion of quality. That’s definitely not
the route we are pursuing. It’s
important to focus on product
development and even take risks
sometimes.”

C: How would you convince an

iOS user to switch to an Android?
CP: “It really depends on building a
brand equity and the positioning in

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 177
body love
Protein Bar Pro
They look tasty, but what are protein bars actually made of? And when’s the
best time to munch one? We asked London-based nutritionist Clarissa
Lenherr to debunk the myths surrounding your favourite snack.
If I eat a protein bar every day,
will I get bulging biceps?
Not exactly, says Clarissa. She advises
against eating them daily, but adds that
protein is needed for building muscle
(alongside strength training workouts). “Our
diets should be as diverse as possible,
with macronutrients coming from a variety
of food sources,” she notes, stressing
the importance of whole foods (such as
eggs, vegetables, fruits, nuts, grains, and
legumes). “But if protein bars are one of the
only ways you can fit in a protein source,
they can be a good addition to your daily
intake.” Don’t overdo it: Clarissa advises
BHADOO SAHIB
that high amounts of protein can put stress
on the kidneys. “Aim for roughly 0.8g to 1g
of protein per day, per kg of body weight.”
Can a protein bar replace a meal?
It’s always preferable to eat a healthy,
balanced diet when you can, rather than
regularly relying on substitute snacks. Plus,
there are so many types of bars that it can
get confusing. Energy bars contain high-
calorie ingredients that deliver fuel to keep
you going through the day; protein bars are
intended as a pre or post-workout supple-
ment to offer additional protein; and meal
replacement bars are a combination of both
(not intended as a substitute for regular
meals but used if you are time poor). Back
to protein bars: Clarissa says it is actually
better to eat little bits of protein throughout
the day, rather than bulking up via one meal
alone (top tip: chicken, yoghurt, lentils, and
fish are all great sources, if you are getting
your cook on!). But a protein bar can be a
great way to get a little boost in, especially
if you are out and about.
When exactly should you eat a
protein bar? Ever heard that you
need to eat protein immediately
after your workout, otherwise it
won’t ‘count’?
178 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022
Become a
That’s not strictly true, but there is an
optimal window, as Clarissa reveals.
EAT IT “There’s a time frame of around four hours
UP!
post-working out in which our muscles are
most receptive to protein,” she explains.
“Aim to eat your protein bar one to two
hours post-exercise.” Scoffing one prior to
exercising can be beneficial. “Make sure to
give yourself an hour to digest, more if it is
a high-fibre protein bar. Fibre takes longer to
break down; no-one wants a protein bar sat
in their stomach while they are working out.”
KNOW YOUR INGREDIENTS
It’s a good idea to understand what’s
in your food. Here are some common
additions, decoded.
INULIN
A type of soluble fibre that works to
support gut health, it’s added to bars to
act as a binder and natural sweetener.
But be mindful that too much can cause
an upset stomach.
XYLITOL, SORBITOL, MALTITOL
Avoid bars with too many of these sugar
alcohols, aka polyols. They can upset
your stomach and cause a laxative
effect. This is especially important to
note if you have IBS (Irritable bowel
syndrome).
CARRAGEENAN
This seaweed derivative, used as an
emulsifier, has been known to cause
By: JENNIFER SAVIN; Image: GETTYIMAGES.COM
intestinal irritation. Always check the
label for it if you suspect that it’s a
problem for you.
STILL FLUMMOXED?
Look for a bar with whey and pea
proteins, with at least 3g fibre per
serving. Avoid if sugar, high-fructose
corn syrup or sucrose is the main
ingredient. Q
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 PROMOTION

REDEFINING ELEGANCE
ONE ENSEMBLE AT A TIME
Meet the designer and creative director of Tisharth by Shivani who is trying to
bridge the gap between prêt and couture with her designs.

B
est known for its artistry and why the brand also possesses a large number
diversity—Indian designers of diverse clientele in prominent cities of the
continue to carve their niche world. Her ensembles are trying to redefine
across the world. Today, labels modern functional silhouettes that are also
and various designers hold the ground in donned by leading celebrities. The
a bid to create a cultural dialogue functionality of her craft has helped Shivani in
between the nation and the world... making a mark on the global platform.
Making an impact in such manner is This is why she takes pride in maintaining
Shivani Jain, Designer and Creative the high standards of workmanship and
Director of Tisharth by Shivani. The quality through her label. From working
designer showcased her all-new amongst various fashion labels and
collection at the recently concluded showcasing her creations at Paris Fashion
London Fashion Week. Her latest Week last year and now London Fashion
collection called Psychedelic Rush was Week... Shivani sets an excellent example that
well received by everyone.

BHADOO SAHIB
The collection features lively elements
that represent her design sensibilities.
While the playful use of bright hues with Shivani Jain
when one puts their heart and minds into
creating something, one can never fail.
Log on to www.tisharthbyshivani.com to shop
the collections, and follow on Instagram:
mellow pastels and metallics helps offer
@tisharth_by_shivani
versatility to her clients.
Amalgamating futuristic elements with feminine
designs, the brand that launched in 2015 has had a
strong footing in the fashion industry in a short span of
time. It is her vision to bridge the gap between prêt and
couture that inspired her to bring Tisharth to the market.
Tisharth believes in crafting ensembles for everyone
across all body types and age. This is one of the reasons
only in cosmo

BHADOO SAHIB
This is a story about defying the unwritten rules of society,
about breaking beauty barriers, about questioning the
norms that don’t serve us. At Cosmo, we applaud—and
encourage—non-conformity. We believe it is time to create
a world that accepts people for who they are, a world that is
tolerant of others’ beliefs, and allows us to be unique. So we
asked some truly talented people on what’s the one thing they
have said F-off to in order to preserve their individuality.

By Meghna Sharma and Shambhavi Dutta

180 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 1
Eisha A Chopra
ACTOR AND SCREENWRITER
“When I decided to become an actor,
I met with the head of a prestigious
agency, who had seen my photographs.
She glanced at me for a second and
said, ‘Come out with me for a smoke’.
There I was, in a stairwell full of cigarette
smoke, all dolled up, when her words
hit me: ‘Look, you are pretty. But you
are not ‘magazine’ pretty. It is just never
going to happen for you.’
To her, and hundreds of others I have
had such encounters with, I would like to
say F-Off. I am sorry they were victims
of an unkind world to have such a
pessimistic outlook in life...but meeting
them taught me to be kinder. And the
next time someone comes to me for
help, I will tell them to dream big as
anything is possible.”

BHADOO SAHIB
Photograph: URVI DESALE; DRESS: RITU KUMAR
only in cosmo

2
Pragya Kapoor
FILM PRODUCER AND
BHADOO SAHIB
ENVIRONMENTALIST
“I remember being bullied in school for
my skin colour. It began as furtive shoves
and whispered insults, which eventually
escalated to full-blown harassment. It
was distressing, and the worst part is
that I never retaliated. It continued for
six years, until, one day, I decided to
confront them. Intoxicated with a rush of
adrenaline or, perhaps, pent-up frustration
made me give it back to them...and it
worked. The nasty comments stopped.
But, sometimes, bullies win. They fail
to realise their behaviour can have a
devastating impact on the bullied. It even
haunts some victims their whole lives.
Now that my children are in school,
I don’t wish their lives to follow the same
pattern as mine—I want them to be
compassionate individuals, but don’t
want them to put up with bullying.
Hence, I try to encourage kindness,
inclusivity, and empathy at home, and
frequently remind them that ‘being mean
is a sign of weakness’.”

182 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
BHADOO SAHIB

Photograph: DATTARAM KAUDARE

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 183
only in cosmo

3
Saie Tamhankar
ACTOR
“Everyone goes through trying times,
and these hurdles can either make or
break us. For me, it has been more
about the external environment than
my internal struggles. Sometimes,
playing a certain kind of role can lead
to people forming a certain image of
you. It happened to me after I worked in
Hunterrr—I was approached for similar
scripts for over three years. I have
always wanted to take up challenging
roles, and I kept trying, because I felt it
was important for me to break through
and showcase my versatility as an
actor. I wanted to let go of the ‘bold
actress’ tag. I hate that word...always
have. Eventually, I stopped caring about
people. I have faith in my acting abilities,
and every time I receive an award, my
heart is filled with love and gratitude. So
I flipped the bird at people who tried to
put me in a box and hamper my growth.
I firmly believe that my work will continue

BHADOO SAHIB
to help me break these shackles.”

184 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 4
Malini Agarwal
AUTHOR, TV HOST, AND
FOUNDER, MISSMALINI.COM
“Truth be told, over the years, I have probably had to say
F-off to a whole lot of things... From politely dismissing the
notion that all women must give birth to fulfil their ‘duty’
as the female sex to more vocal smackdowns of sexist
comments, courtesy patriarchy that still exists in society.
But if there is one thing that really makes me angry, it’s
the notion that girls (and boys) must use skin-lightening
products to find fame, fortune, success, or even
someone to love and marry them. I truly believe brown
is beautiful, and we must encourage our girls to love the
skin they are born with. That said, there is nothing wrong
with using make-up and skincare to enhance your looks as
long as it doesn’t encourage one to look a different shade,
or prey on anyone’s insecurities about their skin tone.”
Photograph: 10 TALENTS MEDIA

BHADOO SAHIB

5
Nikita Singh
AUTHOR
“Over the past several years, I have been very
careful about the company I keep. Earlier, I put
too much weight on what others thought about
me, which has only ever held me back. I became
independent quite early in life, and have made my
own decisions ever since. When you get to call your
own shots, you can own the results, even when
Photograph: NICHOLAS SHERIDAN

they turn out to be undesirable. And there’s power

in that. Even with my independence, I wasn’t fully
free until I deliberately distanced myself from self-
serving people and learned to truly stop worrying
about other people’s opinions of me. I no longer
seek validation from others to live my own life!”
 only in cosmo

6
Pranav Misra
CO-FOUNDER AND CEO, HUEMN
“To explore, seek more, and be hungry for knowledge...all of these things
work as great teachers to navigate life. They also motivate you to find
solutions to the simplest and biggest problems you face. While most of us
veer towards a life full of comforts, sometimes that could lead to laziness,
which carries a demonic energy—almost parasitical. I believe tardiness
disrespects the environment it breeds in. Cognisant of that, to practice
what I preach, one thing I have consciously said F-off to is complacency.
It is counterproductive as it puts you in a box and stalls your growth—and
there is nothing more threatening than that.”

BHADOO SAHIB

7
Shubhika Sharma
DESIGNER AND FOUNDER, PAPA DON’T PREACH BY SHUBHIKA
“Society believes that sensitive, creative women can’t run a successful business.
With so many people echoing the same belief, I, too, began doubting myself.
Thankfully, I stuck to my instincts, and dismissed anyone who tried to make me feel
incompetent because of my emotional side. Today, I am so proud of the fact that
my little boutique with just three employees has now turned into a business that
sustains the livelihood of 300+ intuitive, creative souls. 90 percent of my team is
female, and we are driven, competitive, and sensitive—these qualities have allowed
us to realise our dreams.”

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BHADOO SAHIB

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 187
only in cosmo

8
Ishita Mangal
DIGITAL CONTENT CREATOR
“The one thing I have learned to say
F-off to is seeking validation. It took me
a while to not get affected by people’s
comments on social media. That doesn’t
mean I don’t acknowledge my audience’s
feedback or take their constructive
criticism into account. I truly love the
creative process, and I think feedback
helps one grow. But I no longer seek
anyone’s approval, and when it gets
overwhelming, I practice self-affirmations
to pull through.”

BHADOO SAHIB
BHADOO SAHIB

9
Shantanu Gosavi
DIGITAL CONTENT CREATOR
AND MODEL
“I say F-off to anything that limits me.
When I started out as a model, it was
partly because I wanted people to
understand that there is no such thing
as ‘perfect skin’. I have vitiligo and the
modelling industry was not so inclusive
back then, so it was important to speak
about it. However, over time, I realised
that while my purpose was to normalise
this skin condition, the industry had
already defined me as the ‘model
with vitiligo’. So I stopped working on
projects which made me feel caged,
or highlighted my skin over me as a
person. The work I do must embody me
and not just certain parts of me. I am
just a regular person, who doesn’t want
to be viewed through a prejudiced lens.”

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 189
only in cosmo

BHADOO SAHIB

10
Sonal Chauhan
ACTOR
“People’s expectations and unwarranted judgements always bothered me. I have been body shamed for being
too thin for as long as I can remember. I tried to gain weight to shut those people up, but they still weren’t
happy! In my 20s, I made the same mistake of listening to other people’s opinions about my career. I realised
soon enough that this was a vicious circle I needed to break out of. So, finally, I showed the middle finger to
society’s opinions, and I have never felt freer.”

190 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 11
Anupriya Kapur
DIGITAL CONTENT
CREATOR
“I started a blog and later went on
to become a digital content creator.
During this time, my ex-husband
and I decided to part ways. People
told me that I’d never be able to
lead my life without a man. I didn’t
listen to the naysayers, and soon
after, I co-founded a start-up. But
that still wasn’t good enough, and I
was told that it was just sheer luck.
My biggest takeaway from these
incidents: no matter what you do,
you can’t make everyone happy.
So just worry about your own
happiness. And this was the best
decision I ever made!”

BHADOO SAHIB

12
Ashray Gujral
FOUNDER, DASH AND DOT
“For years, I told myself that my
ambitions were too large to be
achieved. I would often console
myself by thinking that I had
missed the boat to build something
meaningful. But the pandemic gave
me a chance to focus on myself
and realign my priorities. With one
small change at a time, I was able
to silence my inner voice that made
me doubt myself. It was hard to
tell my ‘imposter syndrome’ to
buzz off, but creating a brand that
embodies my hopes and dreams
makes me truly proud.”

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 191
only in cosmo

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13
Nida M Shervani
DISC JOCKEY
“Having grown up in a conservative household, working as a DJ was a tough decision. And it took a lot of
time and effort to make a mark in this male-dominated field. This is why I say F-off to anyone who thinks
it has been easy for me because I am a girl. Being part of an industry where you are constantly stressed
about making sure the audience has a great time leads to a lot of self-doubt. But now, I choose to believe
in myself, and not let insecurities creep up.”

192 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 14
Karan Sareen
DIGITAL CONTENT CREATOR
“I have always been a pessimist—somehow
I could never see the bright side. Even a
slight possibility of something turning out
the way I wanted it to was unbelievable to
me...so whenever I thought about putting
my work or myself out in public, it had to be
perfect. It just had to be! But, over the years,
I have realised that perfection is overrated,
and the only way out is to accept myself for
everything that I have considered a flaw. So
I’d say buzz off to self-doubt, which, once
upon a time, led me to believe that I am not
good enough, or that I am not funny enough,
because everything that I am is all that I have
to be. And no matter what, I will slay.”

BHADOO SAHIB
15
Kanika Dhillon
AUTHOR, SCREENWRITER,
FILMMAKER, AND PRODUCER
“I have been called one of the most ‘provocative’
writers of today, stirring up storms and heated
discussions through my films. Be it a woman’s
right to choose her partner and challenging the
sanitised depiction of love (in Manmarziyaan); the
role women play in abetting patriarchal notions
and the culture of silence (in Guilty); women
asserting their sexual desires and fulfillments
in an arranged marriage (in Haseen Dillruba);
shaking-up the narrative around mental health
(in Judgementall Hai Kya), or calling out religious
fanaticism (in Kedarnath)—if ‘provocative’ is the
title given to me, I wear it proudly. I don’t want
to fit in, or follow a set mode of how characters
should be, of how certain genres should be, and,
most importantly, how women should behave. I
say F-Off to everyone who wants me to toe the
line and follow the rules—the basic rule for me
is—there is no rule!”

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 193
only in cosmo

16
Sonali Pamnani
Jhabakh
FOUNDER,
THE MERAKI PROJECT
“As a teenager, I always took pride
in the idea that I was a guy’s girl—
not a girl’s girl. I subconsciously
bought into the stereotype that
girls are ‘dramatic’ and ‘too much’
to work with. However, in my early
20s, I realised how problematic my
approach was. So I decided to let go
of my ingrained patriarchal beliefs.
I began questioning the norms and
consciously made an effort to shift
my gaze and look at women around
me in a different light.”

BHADOO SAHIB

17
Anjana Dubey
DIGITAL CONTENT
CREATOR
“Flaunting my natural, grey
hair at an age that is still
considered ‘too young’ as per
society is my way of saying
a big F-off to those who think
it is inappropriate. Hair is
hair, no matter its colour. And
honestly, my grey strands have
had no impact on how I feel
about myself. To me, being
able to sport greys is a sign
of confidence. And I believe
everyone should do what makes
them feel beautiful.”

194 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 18
Roma Narsinghani
JEWELLERY DESIGNER
“I would say a massive F-off to the
race of life. In my 20s, I was always
rushing to reach my goals. I believed
I would miss out if I didn’t take up an
opportunity, when the true beauty of life
is to enjoy every moment of what you
do...and to take a break when you need
to. It is absolutely essential to invest in
rest and to take time out for yourself, or
we might lose ourselves in this journey
called life.”

BHADOO SAHIB
only in cosmo

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19
Sanjana Rishi
LAWYER AND DIGITAL
CONTENT CREATOR
“The one concept I have said F-Off to,
rather publicly, is the concept of ‘nazar’
or evil eye. To me, nazar is just another
tool designed to make women feel guilt
and shame. It is part of a concerted
patriarchal effort to keep us down and
gaslight us. If you believe in it, that’s
great, but I ask that you do not impose
it on me. I refuse to be beholden to it
anymore—and I refuse to introduce
the concept to my daughter at all (no
kaala tikkas here!). I feel there are many
reasons to not do something, or post
something, or show something...but
nazar ain’t it.”

196 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 20
Shraddha Kutty
ACTOR
“My tattoos represent who I am
and everything that I have let go
of. Especially the one on my neck
featuring six lizards that stare

Photograph: KOUMUDI CHOUHAN

outwards. The lizards create a
beautiful, strange subversion,
because when people stare at them,
those lizards gaze back at people
as if asking the world, ‘What the F
are you looking at?’. My tattoos are
a reminder to let go anything that
restricts my freedom.”

BHADOO SAHIB

21
Tanya Gupta
DIGITAL CONTENT CREATOR
“Growing up, like any other girl, I was forced to
buy into a stereotypical notions of beauty. When
I began creating content on social media, I’d
always try to live up to that unattainable beauty
standard...letting the Internet dictate what was
pretty. But I got tired of it. And I decided to live
my truth and let go of the archaic definitions of
beauty. I no longer adhere to society’s ideals
because I don’t want to be pushed into looking
like someone else’s clone.”

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 197
only in cosmo

22
Shafaque Eqbal
DIGITAL CONTENT CREATOR
“There have been numerous turning points in
my life when I have said F-off to anything and
anyone that tried to hold me down and hurt
me. First was when I moved to Noida [Uttar
Pradesh] in 2016 because my mother left
me in Munger, Bihar, where I was physically,
emotionally, and verbally abused. I decided
to say F-off to my family because they
curtailed my freedom. Second was when
I became a mother at the age of 19 and
everyone asked me to hide my daughter.
Post my pregnancy, many judged my body...
but I moved on with my life without giving
a damn. I focused on building my career,
began expressing myself through gender-
fluid fashion, and I have never been happier.”

BHADOO SAHIB
Photographer: SALIS AFAQUE

23
Ishita Sudha Yashvi
CO-FOUNDER CROSS BORDER
KITCHENS AND TINKAA TINKAA
“Throughout life, I have fought the status quo,
challenged patriarchy, and broken away from
societal norms. And I want to continue to push
boundaries. It all started when I left my father’s
home at the age of 16 to help my mother break
free from an unhealthy marriage. From working
two jobs at an early age to make ends meet, to
leaving a fulfilling, corporate career to launch
my own entrepreneurial venture, it has been a
long ride and I am here for it.”

198 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 24
Ravjot Mehek Singh
FILMMAKER AND ART ACTIVIST
“As a Sikh activist and filmmaker raised
in post-9/11 America, I rebel against
the culture I was born with and the
one I was raised in. I also direct films
with a strong queer message, all while
fighting the endless battle against
anti-Asian xenophobia that permeates
Western culture. I also choose to dress
provocatively in order to challenge
society’s limited view. My choice to speak
up against stagnant patriarchal norms and
xenophobia has led me to the path that
was never paved for me, but, in hindsight,
is so fulfilling.”

BHADOO SAHIB

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 199
only in cosmo

BHADOO SAHIB
25
Rasika Dugal
ACTOR
“I have always found my own
path...in spite of a tonne
of advice—sometimes
unsolicited—from other people,
and even ‘warnings’ about how
things will not work out for me
if I don’t follow the path etched
out by others. Making decisions
always comes with its share
of confusion. But I think
instinctively and have always
felt the need to do things that
mean something to me...and
I like to do them in a way that
feels right to me. The well-
Photograph: ASHISH DEURKAR

meaning will worry, and some

will dismiss. But whether or not
it works out, at least I can look
back and say ‘I did it all on my
own...I did it my way’.”
 26
Kamakshi Khanna
SINGER
“Growing up, I always felt like a misfit.
I would run away from the slightest
hint of attention. Even making a tiny
announcement in front of the school
would send shivers down my spine.
Now, I look at how far I have come.
From launching my music career to
performing in front of thousands of
people, appearing on national television,
and touring alone...working towards my
career has made me conquer my social
anxiety. Sometimes, it gets tough when
my crippling anxiety shows up, but I have
learnt to be kind and patient with myself.”
Photograph: : SHREYA SHETTY

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27
Rashmi Mann
MODEL
“I am not one to be told what I should or
shouldn’t do, especially when it is about my
appearance. Post the pandemic and more
recently, after my father passed away, I lost
patience for anything that isn’t real. I let go of
toxic friendships and familial ties that didn’t
serve me. It was one of the hardest, but also
one the most important, steps I have taken
for my emotional, psychological, and spiritual
growth. People who are afraid of change
never like it, but the truth is, change is the only
constant in the Universe.”
only in cosmo

BHADOO SAHIB

28
Shobhaa De
AUTHOR AND COLUMNIST
“Fortunately, I was born with a steel reinforced, sturdy, and upright spine. Nobody ever messed with me.
I have adopted the F-Off approach towards authority and corrupt politicians all my working life—50 years
and counting. Standing up to bullies is non-negotiable. Taking on political parties who brought morchas
to my home, threatened to gag me with vada pav (!), and blacken my face with soot—this remains a vital
part of my personal F-Off campaign.”

202 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 29
Regina Cassandra
ACTOR
“I hail from the south, born to a Muslim father
and Christian mother, who converted to Islam
before getting married. My mum was shunned
by her family for marrying a Muslim man. And as
life would have it, they got divorced when I was
just one-year-old. My mum continued to raise me
as a single parent for about 10 years, before
marrying a Gujarati man. Every time someone asks
me what my mother tongue is, or whether I am
Tamilian (because I am from Chennai), I find myself
searching my mind for the right answer...only to
realise there isn’t one.
The fear of being an outcast or not fitting in has
been deep-rooted in me. Life, so far, has taught me
that it is okay to not conform to boxes that society
has created. That’s why I strongly believe in
inclusivity. So here’s a big middle finger to the
world that likes to control people with their
religious, casteist constructs.”

BHADOO SAHIB
30
Eina Ahluwalia
JEWELLERY DESIGNER

“Patriarchy defines the ideal trajectory of a woman’s life

as a successful marriage, perfectly turned-out children,
adorable grandkids, death... In each of those roles,
we are meant to primarily serve other people. Societal
expectations also require you to do a good job, or run a
successful business along with the above. Somewhere
along the way, I decided that these weren’t the choices I
would like to make for myself if I had a choice...and then
I realised that I did.
So I live my life as a single, child-free woman—both
by choice—and absolutely love it. I don’t think a
government document should be required to validate
a committed relationship, nor if a couple decides to
part and move on gracefully. Also, I reject the guilt
society tries to put on child-free women saying that
we are being selfish and shirking responsibility. We are
just choosing different responsibilities that work better
for us personally. So F-you patriarchy, and FO societal
expectations, I will do what I want.”

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 203
only in cosmo

31
Vandana
M Jagwani
CREATIVE DIRECTOR,
MAHESH NOTANDASS,
AND FOUNDER, VANDALS
“The jewellery business has
always been a boys’ club. These
men typically inherit their business
from their fathers and hand it
over to their sons. But when I
inherited the legacy of Mahesh
Notandass, it was an anomaly. I
had to, of course, work harder to
prove my mettle. And while I was
spearheading the family business,
I craved for more. So I launched
my own brand, Vandals, against
my family’s wishes, and chose to
work with lab-grown diamonds

BHADOO SAHIB
versus real ones, because I know
that’s a sustainable choice.”

32
Photograph: MICHAEL SHELLER; Dress: SOLACE LONDON; Bracelet: UMESH JIVNANI JEWELS

Elena Fernandes
ACTOR
“Being a part of an industry where you are expected
to conform to their ‘guidelines’, I strive to be
authentic and refuse to play by the rules. I have
been labelled a ‘firangi’ [foreigner], and, over the
years, a common piece of advice I have received
from producers, actors, or photographers is that
if I want to be successful, I should keep my mouth
shut and do as asked. To which my obvious reply is
‘F-off’! I like to speak my mind, and my goal in life is
to use my voice against injustice.”
 33
Akanksha Deo
Sharma
DESIGNER, IKEA
“Thanks to my upbringing, I have
said FO to gender stereotypes.
Despite being brought up in a
traditional Indian household, my
parents always taught my sister
and me to learn and grow in order
to become self-sufficient women.
That challenged us and the long-
established norms of society, and
helped us pave our own path to
create a meaningful life.”

BHADOO SAHIB
only in cosmo

34
Rosalyn D’Mello
AUTHOR
“Thanks to two years of sustained therapy, I was able
to say F-off to shame. It had never occurred to me
how deeply I had internalised the patriarchal gaze
that shamed my female body for simply existing.
My so-called imperfections were constantly subject
to public scrutiny and vocalisations. I was too dark,
too thin, then too fat, or wore clothes that were too
revealing, or I occupied too much space, or had too
many opinions. The prevalence of language that shames
non-conforming bodies means we totally normalise all its
intonations. When I decided to embrace motherhood, I
began therapy as a way of exorcising the scars of past
traumas, and I am now making a conscious effort to
ensure I do not repeat vocabulary that involves shaming.
I point it out to my loved ones as well, when they make
comments if our child is naked, for example. No ‘nangu’
[naked] allowed within my ear-shot. Freeing myself from
almost three decades worth of shame is an ongoing
exercise, but I feel empowered every day, as a person
and as a feminist writer. As I un-entangle myself from the

BHADOO SAHIB doctrine of shame, I feel more connected to joy.”

35
Avni Aneja
CO-FOUNDER, SIX5SIX
“The past 16 years of my life, my achievements
and relationships, among other things, have all
been reduced to one focal point: my weight and
my physical appearance. No matter what I did, or
continued to do, the conversations always revolved
around how much weight I had put on. I am about
to enter the third decade of my life, and as per
society, my weight is still not ideal, but I feel exactly
how I should—absolutely in love with myself. It has
taken so much work for me to get to this point, and
I still need to unlearn many things, but here is a big
middle finger to every person who has told me how
I ‘need’ to look or how much I should weigh.”

206 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022

 36
Aavriti Jain
OWNER AND DESIGNER, DHORA
“I faced a lot of sexism while I was building my brand.
From the guy at the printer, who was making my press
kit, to vendors who would give their unsolicited advice
[‘Why are you spending so much money on your visiting
cards and bags...you will get married soon and this will
be a waste’ is one of the many gems], people made me
doubt myself at every step. I still remember the time
I was opening my retail space, and literally 90 percent
of the workers would refuse to look me in the eye,
let alone negotiate, or take me seriously. They would
look through me, hoping that some guy would walk
in from behind me to take over the conversation. So
I’d definitely say F-Off to sexism. I hope we don’t have
to continue fighting much longer to shine in a man’s
world...we desperately need a world of equality.”
Photograph: 10 TALENTS MEDIA

BHADOO SAHIB

37
Ankita Chawla
MARKETING PROFESSIONAL AND
DIGITAL CONTENT CREATOR
“As the viral Reel audio says, ‘If it does not bring you
joy, income, or orgasms, it’s not meant for you’. The
one thing I stopped caring about has been committing
to things I don’t truly enjoy. This year has taught me
the art of saying buzz off, not just to people, but to
opportunities that do not contribute to my creativity.
I have realised that my soul feels more recharged
Photograph: FARHEEN FATIMA

when I spend time with myself. As a result, my

relationship with myself has significantly improved
and the results are apparent in both my personal and
professional life.” Q
 BHADOO SAHIB

Follow @bazaarindia on
INSTAGRAM
for the latest in fashion, beauty and celebrity news.
 FASHION
WHAT TO WEAR THIS VERY MINUTE

Jacket, top, pants,

and choker, all
Tom Ford; ring,
Swarovski

BHADOO SAHIB

The MO right now is

Be to secure all things

over-the-top—read
clothes, jewels, and
accessories—to
match the ‘excessive’
Be vibe that’ll help you
score major style
points this season.
Photographs: Go Wontae;
Styling: Kim Ji Hu
BHADOO SAHIB

Top, Louis Vuitton;

shorts, H&M;
earrings, Show
Jewellery; bracelet,
Burberry
 (This Page) Open
shoulder blouse in
printed silk and
pants, both
Blumarine;
Graziella Necklace,
Vivienne Westwood;
Dulcis Cocktail
Ring (in green and
pink), Swarovski;
platform mules,
Roger Vivier

BHADOO SAHIB
 BHADOO SAHIB

Dress, Loewe;
bracelet, Saint Laurent
BHADOO SAHIB

Millenia Necklace and

Harmonia Cuff, both
Swarosvki; sequin
disc dress, Paco
Rabanne; Hansen
Boots, Gianvito Rossi
 BHADOO SAHIB

Slip dress,
Prada; earrings,
Emporio
Armani;
Harmonia Cuff,
Swarovski; tie-
up heels,
Gianvito Rossi
 V-neck
catsuit, Kika
Platform
Sandals,
earrings, and
bracelet, all
Saint Laurent

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Model: Joan Park;

Hair: Lee Enok;
Make-Up: Kong
Hyerun; Assistant:
Park Kyungmi; Art
Designer: Min Hyunji;
Nails: Fingersuit
 BHADOO SAHIB

Dress, Gauri &

Nainika, `52,000;
MerAngels Rings,
Eina Ahluwalia,
`10,850
 CHILL VIBES
ONLY
In the next few pages, prints and solids come
together to make lounging about at home a stylish
affair. From flowing silhouettes to risqué styles, flip
through to upgrade your at-home aesthetic.
Photographs: Sushant Kadam; Styling: Priyanka Yadav

BHADOO SAHIB
 BHADOO SAHIB

Leah Jacket,
Limerick by Abirr
n’ Nanki, `15,600
BHADOO SAHIB

Shimma Slip Dress,

NorBlack NorWhite,
`9,588; Mosaic Lace-Insert
Bib, Kanika Goyal Label,
`14,500; Love and Heal
Yourself Ring, Eina
Ahluwalia, `12,450
 BHADOO SAHIB

Cai Dress, `24,999,

July Issue; Camellia
Swarovski Bolo Tie
Necklace, `16,950,
Outhouse Jewellery
 Chakachaund Corset, Doh
Tak Keh, `13,200; wide-leg
pants, Huemn, `12,000;
Botanical Garden Resin
Statement Necklace, Kate
Spade, `13,000; Kai Rings,
Zohra, `2,400; Holo Black
Sandals, Tiesta, `5,190

BHADOO SAHIB
BHADOO SAHIB
BHADOO SAHIB

Trench, `39,000, vegan

leather slippers, `18,000,
both Aartivijay Gupta;
Renaissance Swimsuit,
`6,600, Tizzi; Linnea Link
Necklace, `3,800, Anneke
Necklace, `3,200,and Ester
Necklace, `2,700, all Zohra
 BHADOO SAHIB

Cosmic Scarf (worn

as a top), `4,500,
Athena Scarf,
`14,800, both Tizzi;
Dusty Blue Rainforest
Scarf, Suket Dhir,
`9,650; Sunglasses,
Vogue Eyewear,
`6,290; metallic cord
corrugated heels,
Rimzim Dadu,
`25,000
 Homecoming Sun
Hat, Ara Lumiere,
`12,000; Vita
Choker, `2,800,
and Iris Hoop
(worn as
pendant), `3,100,
both Zohra

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Model: Sumita Bhandari at Anima Creative Management; Make-Up and Hair: Shivani Joshi;
Fashion Assistant: Vanya Verma; Location Courtesy: The Westin Sohna Resort And Spa.
Earrings, Felt;
pearl necklace,
WALD Berlin

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Live Life
IN COLOUR
Netherlands-based artist Zoë Livay gives a swift lesson to
pick the most colourful offerings with subtle-yet-striking
details for a fun day at the beach.
Creative Direction and Styling: Valérie Ntantu; Photographs: Kee & Kee
from Sticky Stuff Agency and Anouk Moerman
Dress, H&M; boots,
Ganni; earrings,

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Felt; necklace,
Wildthings
Collectables at
Rogue
 T-shirt and shorts,
both Daily Paper;
bucket hat, All Things
Mochi; chain and link
bracelets, Pandora;
beaded bracelet,
Anna + Nina; rings
Keane at Rogue

BHADOO SAHIB
 BHADOO SAHIB

Bikini top, Calzedonia;

jeans, Esprit; earring
and rings, all Anna +
Nina; necklaces, all Felt
BHADOO SAHIB

Sweater and trousers,

both Baum und
Pferdgarten;
sunglasses, Dolce &
Gabbana; earrings,
Felt; necklace, Wald
Berlin at Rogue
Bikini Top, Ganni;
blouse, Samsøe &
Samsøe; jeans, Guess
Originals; earrings, Felt;
chain and link bracelets,
both Pandora; beaded
bracelet, Anna + Nina;
rings, Keane at Rogue

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Shirt, Prada; mini
skirt, & Other
Stories; earring and
link necklace, both
Felt; pearl necklace,
Wald Berlin; rings,
Keane at Rogue

BHADOO SAHIB
 BHADOO SAHIB

Swimsuit, H&M blazer, and Hair: Mila da Silva

trousers, all Zara; ring, Martins; Make-Up
Pandora; earring, pendant, Daphne Weijers at
and rings, all Anna + Nina; House of Orange
necklace, Felt
fashion
1.

2.

3.

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4.

1. Luna Bag, Tann-ed, `9,800. 2. Primrose Earrings, The YV Brand by

Yashvi Vanani, `6,795. 3. Aevitas Platform Pumps, Versace, `1,87,100.
4. Sunglasses, Swarovski, `26,000. 5. Small canvas basketweave tote,
Tory Burch, `28,440. 6. Numisa Oblong Earrings, Shivan & Narresh,
`22,000. 7. Shoe clip, Christian Louboutin, `69,450. 8. Cistine Chapel
Handcuff, Valliyan by Nitya Arora, `7,725. 9. Periodt Bag, NakhreWaali,
`6,200. 10. Enamelled link choker, Misho Designs, `19,364.
 Showstopping

Clear out your shelves ’cuz your wishlist is about to

get lit with Cosmo’s curation of the hottest
accessories of the season.
5. Illustrations By: Tanya Chaturvedi;
Compiled By: Palak Valecha and Yashima Babbar

6.
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7.

8.

9.

10.
fashion

12.

11.

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15. 16.

11. Leyma Studded Bow Court Shoes, Ted Baker, `12,435

approx. 12. Lula Patent Belted Bag, Charles & Keith, `8,999.
13. Parker Sandals, Michael Kors, `21,000. 14. Sneakers, Aldo,
`12,999. 15. Arlo Bamboo Bag, Edgability, `3,500. 16. Loafers,
Tod’s, price on request. 17. Moana Woven Bag, Mayu, `9,500.
18. Tura Sunglasses, Sasha Wear, `7,999. 19. Fitzacat 0 Mini
Bag, Papa Don’t Preach by Shubhika, `22,500. 20. Wine and
Pink Hodophile Bag, Rara Avis, `30,700.
 20.

13.

14. BHADOO SAHIB

17.
19.

18.
fashion 23.

22.
21. Stella Wedges, Jade by Monica and Karishma, `11,500. 22. Linka
Earrings, Deepa Gurnani, `12,100. 23. Manhattan Lady Leopard Large
Tote, Kate Spade, `40,690 approx. 24. Summer Siesta Bib Dress,
Drawn, `7,499. 25. SubRosa Collar, Amama, `6,000. 26. Gold-plated
red stone earrings, Radhika Agrawal Jewels, `3,500. 27. Sack Slip-
Ons, Kilchu, `5,500. 28. Sun Moon Fanny Pack, Olivia Dar, `8,500.
29. Drip OH Wild Heart Shell Knuckle Duster, Outhouse Jewellery,
`14,250. 30. Lola Bag, Notice Me, `3,500.

21.

24.

BHADOO SAHIB
 25.

BHADOO SAHIB

26.

29.

27. 28.

30.
fashion

31.

32.

BHADOO SAHIB

33. 34.
 40.

37.

39.
38.

36.

BHADOO SAHIB

35.

31. Bake Knee Boots 110, Jimmy Choo, ` 6,34,250. 32. Faizah
Bajubundh, AMPM, `5,950. 33. Akila Method Sunglasses, Akila at
Capsul, `12,500. 34. Medusa Earrings, Isharya, `5,499. 35. Seeker
Bag, Dhruv Kapoor, price on request. 36. Peeper Mules, Banjaaran,
`5,999. 37. Selena Whipstitch Bag, Aroka x Mistry, `11,999.
38. Wiggly Rings, Cha-Ching, `450 each. 39. Pleat Wraparound
Sunglasses, Bottega Veneta, price on request. 40. Wood handle
sling, Doodlage, `4,200.
WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF
STYLE MEETS TECH
The Cosmo x Tecno collaboration was a one-of-a-kind property where tech prowess married fashion
expertise. This Stylish Affair not only marked the launch of the TECNO CAMON 19 Pro 5G Phone, but
also showcased an exclusive fashion walk-through—curated by team Cosmo—that featured standout
creations by some of the country’s most-talented designers.

DHRUV KAPOOR
NAMRATA JOSHIPURA
PALLAVI
BHADOO SAHIB MOHAN
PANKAJ AND NIDHI
RIMZIM DADU
ROHIT + RAHUL
SIDDARTHA TYTLER
ALPANA NEERAJ
VARUN BAHL
TORIAL

BHADOO SAHIB

DHRUV
KAPOOR
 ADVERT

BHADOO SAHIB

NAMRATA
JOSHIPURA
TORIAL

BHADOO SAHIB

NOT SO
SERIOUS
BY PALLAVI
MOHAN
 ADVERT

BHADOO SAHIB

PANKAJ
& NIDHI
TORIAL

BHADOO SAHIB

RIMZIM
DADU
 ADVERT

BHADOO SAHIB

ROHIT GANDHI +
RAHUL KHANNA
TORIAL

BHADOO SAHIB

SIDDARTHA
TYTLER
 ADVERT

BHADOO SAHIB

ALPANA
NEERAJ
TORIAL

BHADOO SAHIB

VARUN
BAHL
 Jazz up a boring ol‘ suit
or a semi-formal look
with patent leather-
finish shoes. This style
grabs attention without
seeming over-the-top.
Bonus: if your boo wears
it for any do, trust us, all
eyes will certainly be on
his shoes.

LET’SBHADOO
GET SAHIB
Check out the styles @
Bata Red Label | Bata

THIS PARTY
STARTED
Looking to upgrade your shoe closet
ahead of the festive season? Footwear
giant Bata’s got your back. Their new
Impressions Collection, featuring the
most trendy styles from Bata Red
Label, Marie Claire, Naturalizer,
and Hush Puppies—for men
and women—will add a
touch of glamour to any
occasion. Photographs:
Sushant Chhabria;
Styling: Shaurya
Athley Scan to Explore
DRESS, ZABELLA; EARRINGS, STUDIO TAMAYO

BHADOO SAHIB
ADVERT
TORIAL

They say, when in doubt,

wear black. And truly,
one’s shoe wardrobe is
incomplete without a chic
pair of black heels that can
multitask. Bonus: these
sandals are a great pick to
dance the night away.

Love this look? Check out

the styles @
Naturalizer | Bata

BHADOO SAHIB
 With party invitations
lined up starting Diwali
till New Years, you’d be
reaching out for neutral
pairs the most. And if you
think they’re boring, look
to your left and you’d
be forced to change
your opinion. Bata’s new
collection is proof that a
well-made metallic silver
or golden pair is the ideal
candidate for all your ’fits.

Check out the styles @

Naturalizer | Bata

BHADOO SAHIB
ON SWAPNIL: DRESS, PARNEET GUJRAL; EARRINGS, STUDIO TAMAYO
 If you love dainty styles,
opt for pastel, open-toe
mules that allow your outfit
to be the hero of the look.
Think of this pair as your
BFF: a silent cheerleader
that allows you put your
best foot forward. Also,
detailing as fabulous as
seen on this pair deserves
to be seen...so team it with
cropped trousers to let
these babies shine.

Love this look? Get Bata

Red Label now.

BHADOO SAHIB
 Mall runs that lead to
date nights with boo
can get tiring. You need
comfortable shoes to
keep you company from
morning till night. Hush
Puppies and Red Label
offer styles that make your
feet feel like you have
stepped on a cloud—yes,
they are that good!

Love these looks? Get

them now @ Hush Puppies
and Red Label | Bata

BHADOO SAHIB
TORIAL

The global athleisure

movement has put a lot of
emphasis on sneakers that
allow you to be yourself
without skimping on the
fun element. These blue
sneakers from Power add

BHADOO SAHIB
a touch of cool to any look,
and keep your feet happy.

Love this look? Get it now @

Power | Bata

SHIRT AND TROUSERS, BOTH EXAMPLE

 ADVERT

Cool ethnicwear deserves

equally-cool footwear.
Sparkly sandals make for
the perfect fit for any party
or occasion. However,
delicate, gold kitten heels
like these are hard to find.
We love that they are
super-versatile and work
well with both Indian and
western styles. As for your
beau, gift him this pair of
traditional mojaris to go
with his kurta set, and
watch him slay the festive

BHADOO SAHIB look.

Love these looks?

Get them now @
Bata and Marie Claire |
Bata
ON KUSH: KURTA, PANTS, AND BUNDI, FARIDA GUPTA. ON SWAPNIL: DRESS, RAISIN
TORIAL

The elegance of brocade is hard

to match, but it isn’t a difficult
task for this embellished pair. Fun
and fabulous, it adds glamour
to the look without seeming too
much. The slip-on style makes
it easy to wear and convenient
to get out of. Pro tip: paint your
toes in jewel tones to really make
these sandals shine.

Love this look? Get it now @

Marie Claire | Bata

BHADOO SAHIB

JACKET, AND PANTS, RAISIN

 Colour-blocking is a huge
trend this season. And now
you can incorporate it in
festive clothing as well,
thanks to Bata. Elevate
Indo-western silhouettes
by opting for a stand-out
pair of peep-toe pumps.

HAIR AND MAKE-UP: RAVI MATHUR; MODELS: KIRAN BISHT AT PURPLE THOUGHTS, SWAPNIL JOLLIE AT BLUNT CREATIVES AND
These stylish beauties,
for instance, have a big
personality—along with
making your feet sparkle,
they also help brighten the
whole look. Plus a versatile
pair like this can work for
any occasion.

Love this look? Get it now

KUSH JOTWANI AT TSS; FASHION ASSISTANTS: APRAJITA PURI AND JANVHI JAISWAL
@Marie Claire | Bata

BHADOO SAHIB
BLOUSE, AND SKIRT, RISHI AND VIBHUTI
 BHADOO SAHIB

The 2022 Beauty

The A-Z of what’s hot in the world of skincare and make-up right now.
By Meghna Sharma
beauty

AI AND AR
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Augmented Reality (AR) have revolutionalised the beauty
industry. Many brands use these technologies to recommend products according to
one’s skin colour and tone by enabling virtual make-up testing, so that you can assess
whether or not a product looks good on you. Brands like Lakmé, L’Oréal Paris, M·A·C,
Maybelline New York, Chanel, among others, along with beauty e-retailers like Nykaa.
com and Boddess.com offer virtual try-ons to make shopping for make-up and skincare
online not just easier, but also a lot of fun.

BESPOKE
Customisation is not
limited to fashion any
longer. There are many
skincare, haircare, and
make-up brands that are
founded on the principles
of creating a customised
routine and/or formula to
suit one’s individual
needs. And we couldn’t
be more chuffed about it.
This concept is thriving
internationally, and closer
home, homegrown
brands like Karibo, Tinge
By Sabrina, and Ruby’s

C
CERAMIDES Organics instantly
manufacture customised
There are certain lipstick and base
products. Also see
ingredients that quickly
become the flavour of the
season. And 2022’s
BHADOO SAHIB SkinKraft and Bare
Anatomy, who have
changed the game in the
skin and hair industry.

buzzworthy skincare
ingredient is ceramides. A
type of lipid, ceramides are
naturally found within our
body. Their main function is
to keep the skin’s moisture
barrier intact in order to
keep it nourished. But, with
age and environmental
factors, their levels start
depleting, which could
compromise skin health.
Long story short: they are DEWY SKIN
very important to keep the When it comes to runway beauty trends, there has been a lot of focus on skin of late. And the
base make-up this season had a glowy finish to it. Ranging from extreme gloss to natural,
skin healthy. Try d’You In My deeply-moisturised skin, we spotted many versions—which makes it easy to not just cop the
trend, but also make it your own. No matter what kind of foundation you own, there is a way to
Defence, `3,500, or ensure a glossy, dewy, or luminous effect. If you own a matte formula [for oily skin types], start
with a moisturising skincare routine, then use a setting spray with a dewy finish. Blend a few
Re’equil Ceramide & drops of a facial oil of your choice with the foundation to get that glowing effect. Seal the base
with a generous spritz of the setting spray. Normal to dry skin types can opt for foundations
Hyaluronic Acid Moisturiser, packed with ingredients that boost luminosity—Clinique, Bobbi Brown, and Dior have some
`395. excellent formulations.

264 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 FRAGRANCE
As discussed, the fragrance, scented candles, and diffusers market has grown
exponentially in the past two years. Brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, YSL,
Kenzo, Narciso Rodriguez, Paco Rabanne, Byredo, among many others,
launched several products in these categories. We also saw several homegrown
ESSENTIAL OIL brands join this fragrant journey...Good Earth, for example, launched their range
The pandemic made us conscious of eau de toilettes, Zagros and Isfahan, Naso Profumi released Palo Santo E
about self-care beauty rituals that Limoncello, an homage to Italian summer, and Forest Essentials added two
have a calming effect on our mind striking new variants to their solid perfumes range this year.
and body. And the highly-
concentrated, aromatic oils, aka
essential oils, are the perfect way to
indulge your senses. Essential oils
such as tea tree, eucalyptus, and
lemon—which are known to have
anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and
purifying effects—received particular
attention. However, do remember
that these oils are potent and they
must be mixed with a carrier oil like
coconut or olive in order to be
applied to skin—with discretion, of
course. Other aromatic oils can be
used in a diffuser to create a serene
environment indoors. Try Forest
Essentials Blended Diffuser Oil in
Madurai Jasmine, `1,290.

BHADOO SAHIB

GADGETS
If you are a tech nerd with a penchant for beauty,
there were some exciting launches that merge the
two worlds together. Dyson relaunched Airwrap
with new, more advanced attachments, making it
the must-have hair tool of the year. And YSL’s
Rouge Sur Mesure, an intelligent, at-home, custom
lipstick maker, took the cake for being the most
luxurious, gorgeous beauty gadget to have hit the
market this year.
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 265
beauty

HYALURONIC ACID (HA)

Okay, HA didn’t come into limelight this year, but it certainly made its presence felt in almost all
kinds of formulas. Serums, moisturisers, lip treatments, foundations, lash-growth products, and
even setting spray...hyaluronic acid is now part of practically everything. And for good reason. Its
unmatched ability to attract moisture from its surrounding and hold up to 1,000 times its own
weight makes it one of the Holy Grail ingredients in beauty today. JOYOLOGY
This term has

H
ushered in a new
era in beauty.
Joyology dictates
that one must find
joy in the products
that we are using—
be it in terms of
fragrance, texture,
or look and feel...
everything about
the formula should
instill a sense of
happiness. It also
aligns well with the
new movement in
beauty, which
focuses more on

BHADOO SAHIB well-being now.

INNER BEAUTY
A new army of wellness
capsules, powders, and
gummies—aka beauty
supplements—now come with
the promise to beautify you
Sulwhasoo Concentrated
from the inside. While these Ginseng Renewing
supplements cover nutrients Serum, `13,900
that one’s body might be
deficient in, the term
essentially highlights the
beauty benefits these
products offer. Designed to
enhance the quality of skin,
hair, and nail health, KOREAN
supplements are available in
the form of capsules, shots, INGREDIENTS
liquids, etc, that have vitamins, While K-beauty took the world by
minerals, antioxidants, and storm over many years ago,
collagen in measured specialised Korean beauty
concentrations that help boost ingredients—like Jeju volcanic
your skin health. The most clusters, lava water, camellia,
common supplements include orchids, bija, ginseng, snail
one or more ingredients like mucin, etc—have now become
vitamins, antioxidants (like an intrinsic part of beauty
glutathione), amino acids (like formulas across the globe. From
collagen), minerals, prebiotics, skin clearing properties to anti-
etc, and are intended to be ageing benefits, there’s nary a
taken orally. beauty concern that these
ingredients can’t fix.

266 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 LIMITED EDITION
Beauty is a comprehensive art that the mind sees, the body feels, and the brain
interprets. And brands have nailed this sensory blend with the help of limited-edition
products with specialised packaging, designer collaborations, and more. We love these
collectibles—that come dressed in cute pouches, artsy cases, and jewelled flacons—
as they can be cherished for a long time, and they make our dressers look super-pretty.

M
Chanel Les 4 Ombre Tweed
Limited-Edition Multi-Effect
Quadra Eyeshadow in Tweed
Cuivré, price on request

Jo Malone
London Wood
Sage & Sea
Salt Cologne
Limited
MEDITATION
A practice that originated in India
Edition,
`10,050 several thousand years ago has
now become a way to not just
relieve anxiety, but achieve a
youthful appearance as well.
How so, you ask? Constant
stress can deprive the skin of
oxygen and nutrients. Meditating
religiously every day calms the
mind, relieves daily stress, and,
in turn, increases oxygen supply
to the skin. This helps rejuvenate

BHADOO SAHIB the skin and body, and

transforms cells and tissues,
too. Along with internal benefits,
meditation helps slow down the
ageing process, leading to fewer
wrinkles and fine lines, and
L’Occitane improves radiance.
en
Provence
Limited
Edition
Immortelle
Anti-
Ageing
Serum,
`6,950

OVERNIGHT

N
INTENSIVE
CARE SQUAD
The night-time skincare routine is
more important than ever. As our
NIACINAMIDE luminosity your skin doesn’t skin repairs itself while we hit
just need, but also snooze, scientists and
This ingredient was at its dermatologists have whipped up all
peak in the 2010s, and deserves. A form of kinds of formulas that spend the
night with you and leave you with a
then it lost its charm as we Vitamin B3, niacinamide glowing complexion in the morning.
became obsessed with strengthens the skin’s outer Night-time-only products such as
Clarins’ Super Restorative Night
clay, charcoal, aloe vera, layers, soothes redness Cream restores elasticity overnight,
among others. But and irritation, improves Estée Lauder’s Advanced Night
Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery
niacinamide is back as a elasticity, and evens out Complex is designed to fight various
standalone ingredient in the skin tone. Do you need signs of ageing, Laneige’s Sleeping
Masks for the face and lips lock in
serums to award you with any more reasons? moisture and keep the skin supple.

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 267
beauty

PRP
Platelet Rich Plasma, or PRP
as it is popularly known, is a
professional treatment
where your blood is placed
in a centrifuge, which
separates it into three
layers: plasma on top,
platelets and blood cells in
the middle, and red blood Q SWITCH LASER
cells at the bottom. PRP is One of the fastest routes to
derived from the centre
layer. The platelet-rich spotless skin, the Q Switch Laser
plasma is reintroduced to technology delivers quick,
the skin through a non-
invasive procedure, which powerful pulses of energy to

P
stimulates cell turnover, remove dark spots and treat
boosts collagen and elastin,
and leaves the skin feeling pigmentation, minus any
tighter and plumper, and
looking smoother.
chemicals. The painless
treatment delivers instant results.

BHADOO SAHIB
RETINOL
This is one of those ingredients
nearly every dermatologist swears
by (but also warns about because
not all skin types react well to it).
Retinol helps the epidermal cells of
the skin maintain their functions and
restores a healthy turnover cycle,
awarding you with a smoother
texture. Sunday Riley’s A+ High-
Dose Retinoid Serum, `7,600, is
one of the most trusted formulas in
the biz as it’s great for all skin
types, and is especially kind to
sensitive skin. Also, in the past few
years, along with the clinical
derivative, the natural form of
retinol—bakuchiol—has gained
prominence as it is mild and suits
all skin types.

SUSTAINABLE BEAUTY
This industry has a major carbon footprint, and brands today are taking conscious steps to do their bit for the
environment, by reducing waste, using recycled packaging, and offering refillable products. Many prestigious names like
Dior, Chanel, Givenchy, and Lancôme, are monitoring how their manufacturing affects the ecosystem, and taking
necessary steps to curb environmental pollution. And then there are certain homegrown brands like Bare Necessities,
Earth Rhythm, Neemli Naturals, and Juicy Chemistry that function on a zero-waste policy, and work towards creating
products that are beautiful inside out.

268 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 ULTHERAPY
If you are looking for
non-invasive ways to
Innisfree Green Tea
achieve younger, firmer
Seed Serum, skin, then this FDA-
`2,100
approved treatment is
for you. Ultherapy uses
TEA-INFUSED CONCOCTIONS
This ingredient is killing it in the beauty business. There are a tonne of brands that offer tea-infused ultrasound energy to lift
(both green and black) skincare ranges, because these humble leaves are packed with many benefits. and tighten the skin by
Green tea, for instance, hydrates and soothes the skin, controls sebum production, treats acne,
clears clogged pores, and fights signs of ageing. While black tea depuffs the skin, treats blemishes boosting collagen. The
and pigmentation, promotes collagen production, and is a great anti-ageing ingredient.
best part: there is very
little downtime, and you
will start seeing serious
results 30 days after
VEGAN Kimirica Cold your session.
With a major focus on Pressed &
clean beauty, vegan Extra Virgin
formulas are gaining Coconut Oil,
prominence in the skincare `1,199
and make-up business.

BHADOO SAHIB
While cruelty-free formulas
indicate that they haven’t
been tested on animals,
vegan refers to zero animal
or animal-derived
ingredients used in a
formula. Don’t trust a label
at first sight, it is important
to study the ingredients list
and look for certifications
that prove a formula is
vegan. Kimirica, for
instance, is PETA Vegan
Approved and also carries
other certifications like
PETA Animal-Test Free, and
uses eco-friendly
packaging.

WATER-BASED PERFUMES
This year, many brands switched the base of their fragrances from alcohol to water. Traditionally, with alcohol-
based perfumes, the scent would unravel after the alcohol evaporated. But with water-based fragrances, the
original notes can be experienced fully as soon as it is sprayed. Bonus: the scent does not change over time,
so there are no top, middle, or base notes. Gucci, Annick Goutal, Behnaz, and David Mallet are some of the
brands that offer alcohol-free scents.

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 269
beauty

X-TEEN
People born in the 1980s, known as millennials, are going back to the beauty trends that were big in the ’90s, aka
their teenage years. This has led to a new category in make-up, called ‘X-Teen’. And you won’t just see millennials
sporting trends from this decade, Gen-Z has taken a shine to them, too. Think frosted lids, brown lip liner, gloss
(both on the lips and lids), skinny brows, tiny sunglasses, and more.
Kylie
Janhvi Kapoor Jenner
Bella
Ananya Hadid
Panday

Lily Rose
Depp

Iris Law

Mia Regan
BHADOO SAHIB
Kendall
Jenner

Hailey
Bieber

Y-ZONE CARE
Vulva/vaginal-care
Y
The common mission
of feminine cleansers
skin’s function. It is
recommended to
ZITS
During the pandemic, more
of us faced acne issues
because of constantly
wearing face masks—the
products have is to protect the choose a product that mouth, chin, and jaw region
were the areas of concern.
secured a seperate region against has antibacterial Clarifying products
(cleansers, toners, and facial
category in beauty. bacteria. While we effects, and the ability pads) with salicylic acid,
The Y-Zone, as it is know that the vagina to maintain the pH BHAs, or tea tree keep
pimples at bay, ensuring
popularly referred to is a self-cleansing balance. Avoid using excess sebum or face mask-
now, must have a pH organ, sometimes, perfumes, and induced acne doesn’t wreak
havoc on your skin.
level of 4.5—if the pH climate changes, aromatic oils and
level fluctuates, it sweating, waxing, and lotions as they can
could lead to irritation. other factors could cause allergies.
potentially disrupt the

270 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
beauty

LUST LIST
PRETTY STUFF WE’VE GOT OUR EYES ON THIS MONTH!
By Meghna Sharma

Tsara It’s Glow Time in Hey June, `990

Formulated with natural and organic
ingredients, this multi-purpose balm lends a
natural flush to the skin. The formula is super-
pigmented and can be used on your cheeks,
lips, and lids for a seamless effect.

SkinKraft Syndet Facial Kaja Beauty Bento Eyeshadow

Cleanser, `499 Trio, purplle.com, `1,695
Known for creating This bite-sized stack features
Anastasia Beverly Hills customised routines basis three shimmery shadows that
Brow Genius Conditioning one’s skin type, the latest can be worn alone or blended
Brow Serum, `5,519 launch from SkinKraft together for a dual-toned effect.
This formula—made of red cleanses the skin without You can even dab a little over
clover extract, Korean red disturbing its pH balance. your lips for a frosted finish.
ginseng, and panthenol— It also helps retain
housed in very chic moisture in the skin and
packaging, encourages reduces skin sensitivity.
growth, helps make brows
appear fuller, and tames
coarse texture.
BHADOO SAHIB
COSMO
LOVES

Love Indus Freedom Of

Expression Dual-Purpose
Line Limiter, `7,300
This multitasker blurs and
smoothes creases and Paco Rabanne Fame EDP,
expression lines. price on request
Boasting botanical This cool-AF flacon houses an
extracts like kokum and equally off-beat fragrance. It
hibiscus along with vegan opens with an unusual blend of
collagen, it can be mango and bergamot, with
applied to lips, forehead, middle notes of jasmine that
and laugh lines for an settle down with seductive scents
instant plumping effect. of vanilla and sandalwood.

272 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 Dior Dior Addict
Lipstick in Re(d)
Laneige Lip Treatment Mask,
volution, `3,700
`1,750
This iconic range now
If your lips crave nourishment,
boasts a new formula,
try this pearlescent, lip-
which is composed of
plumping treatment by
90% natural-origin
Laneige that offers an instant
ingredients. The
shot of hydration, and visibly
House worked on the
smoothes creases on the lip.
breakthrough formula
for two years, creating
milk_shake Silver Shine
Conditioner, `380 200 versions to zero
Kimirica Plant Based AHA Face Cream, in on this one. This
`5,000 If you have coloured your hair
blonde, this product is just long-lasting lipstick
This multi-action mask is ideal for an evening
what you need to neutralise offers lacquer-effect
self-care routine. Formulated with organic
yellow, golden, or brassy shine, 24 hours of
aloe leaf juice, which improves skin’s natural
tones that are common in continuous hydration,
moisture content; willow bark, which is rich
lightened hair. It contains milk and comes in a wide
in salicylic acid and helps exfoliate the skin;
proteins and organic fruit range of shades.
and vitamin-rich apple juice, it leaves skin
smooth, radiant, and spot-free. extracts that maintain hair’s
moisture balance while
protecting the colour.

MZ Skin Hydra-Lift Gold Face Mask, `10,400

’Tis the season to indulge and this mask is the
perfect way to make your skin feel loved. MZ Skin’s
Hydra-Lift Golden Facial Treatment Mask is drenched
in gold nanoparticles, niacinamide, Vitamin C, and
collagen that work together to tackle dullness, plump

BHADOO SAHIB up skin, and leave it firm.

l leave yo
wil u
k
s

wit
This ma

h a golden

Shankara Rose Facial Try This!

Mist, `1,080
A few spritzes of this glo
mist will refresh and w, literally!
rejuvenate your skin in
SimplyNam Ultra Matte Lipstick in Arti, `1,299
an instant. It has a long-
This new addition to SimplyNam’s Ultra Matte
lasting aroma that also
Lipstick range is perfect for the cold weather. The
helps relieve stress and
deep burgundy shade works well on all skin tones
anxiety...the post-spritz
and offers bold colour in a single swipe.
glow is an added bonus,
of course.
beauty

Q I am looking for a super-hydrating,

non-greasy product that can keep
my skin supple all day long.
A: You need a gel-based formula that is created with moisture-
lock technology, which seeps into the deepest layers of the skin.
Brands like Kiehl’s (Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream), Belif (The
True Cream Aqua Bomb), Clinique (Moisture Surge 100H Auto-
Replenishing Hydrator), Caudalie (Vinosource-Hydra Grape
Water Gel Moisturizer), Murad (Nutrient-Charged Water Gel),
among many others, offer similar results. If you have tried these
cult formulas and are in the market for
Saturday Skin Waterfall
something new, give Saturday Skin a Glacier Water Cream,
try. Their Waterfall Glacier Water nykaa.com, `2,925

Cream is formulated with Alaska

glacier water and Iceland moss
extract that soothe, moisturise,
and protect the skin. It also has
anti-ageing benefits and makes
for the perfect addition to your
skincare routine.
MOSCHINO

Dermalogica
Powerbright
Overnight Cream,
`6,500
Q My skin has become
awfully dull. Which
brightening ingredients can I
add to my routine to get the
glow back?
A: There are many skincare ingredients,

Q
BHADOO
I gravitate towards
neutral make-up looks.
Is there a 2022
SAHIB like Vitamin C, niacinamide, glycolic acid,
antioxidants, retinol, among others, that
work towards refining the complexion. Vit C
Clarins Mono upgrade that I can and retinol are great for fading dark spots,
Eyeshadow in Pink, while niacinamide treats hyperpigmentation
`1,999 try this season?
and also minimises pores. Glycolic acid
A: Things are looking rosy
has a peeling effect that can make the skin
this AW/22-23. The nude-pink shade showed up
appear smoother and more even. You can
at many shows, and the backstage pros
even pick a product that is formulated with
incorporated this hue on the lips, lids, and
a couple of these ingredients and targets
cheeks (some even taking it to the temples). A
various concerns.
monotone look—where you use the same
product, ideally a lipstick or an eyeshadow for
both lips and lids—is the easiest way to nail the
neutral-ish look. But the backstage pros at
Moschino added an interesting twist by using a SUGAR Cosmetics
Q The festive season is
here and I am dying to
know the secret to celebrities’
more earthy nude-pink on the lips and a brighter Matte Attack
Transferproof glistening skin!
shade on the eyelids, which helps brighten up Lipstick in Depeach
A: Two words: dry oil. And in some cases,
By: MEGHNA SHARMA

the face. Mode, `699

dry oil with shimmer. Yes, it is really that
simple. Most celebrities apply make-up to

Beauty
every visible inch of their body. And the
secret to their glowing arms and legs is
very often a generous amount of non-
greasy, non-transferable, spray formula.

Expert
There are a tonne of products in the
market, but we are crushing over this new
launch by Kiko Milano. The Festival Glow
Shine Bright Body Fluid is a pearlescent
formula that feels like a liquid highlighter, Kiko Milano
Festival Glow
and can be applied to your shoulders, Shine Bright Body
WE ANSWER A BUNCH OF YOUR BURNING collarbones, arms, and legs for that Fluid, `2,150
BEAUTY QUESTIONS. otherworldly glow.

274 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
BHADOO SAHIB
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lifestylist

LIFESTYLIST IT’S OUR JOB TO KEEP YOU INSPIRED

BHADOO SAHIB

COSMO SHORT STORIES ABOUT

Fierce Women
Illustrations: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Three fairytales, penned exclusively for our Anniversary Special, that talk
about courage, unconditional self-love, and how inner strength can change
your life in the best ways. Compiled By Meghna Sharma
280 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

DOYAMONTI’S ARMS
BY IFFAT NAWAZ
Author of (soon-to-be-published) Shurjo’s Clan
Around the time the world had forgotten about borders,
or maybe it was before such boundaries were born, there
lived a Goddess named Doyamonti. She had not two, not
four, but six arms. With her six arms, she guided the six
continents. Two of her arms carried parijat and plumeria;
with those two arms Doyamonti tended to all children,
waking them up right when dawn’s melodramatic hues
wiped away the last breaths of the night sky. The flowers
she carried in those hands touched every growing
body, she rubbed the fragrance onto their skin, and
the children felt protected and guided by the Goddess
Doyamonti who watched over them, their parents, and
all the rivers of this Earth.
Where do Goddesses go when they need a break?
She looked towards where Debomoy might have been
in the skies, she looked around the Earth, where the
humans were going through their usual ups and downs.
The soil below her feet pushed her up a little and then
her arms started climbing up, first hugging the secrets
kept within tree-trunks and then up the invisible
rungs of this world, hidden from earthly eyes. Within
minutes, Doyamonti was in the highest skies. Her arms
spread across the clouds, which soothed her soreness,
the sun warmed her belly and kissed her neck. The
moon waited to sing her a song.
And there in that height, away from the world
and her kin, she realised the weight she had carried
with her six arms dissolved into the lucid air of the
firmament. She realised that there was solace waiting
even for the ones who did not seek it. She only had to
learn to receive, extend her arms and reach for it, like
the humans did.
She swayed on a mighty rain cloud, which played
with her hair and held her fingers. Later, at night, they
melted into each other and poured their kindness
on Earth, travelling back to the rivers and the thirsty
humans, who perpetually sought love.

BHADOO SAHIB
With the other four arms, Doyamonti fixed bridges
and straightened farmlands. She ploughed through the
Earth and purged everything that was unnecessary and
outdated. And then, she planted seeds for the future.
When imploring arms called out to her, she cupped her
hands and placed them on their restless foreheads. In an
instant, the troubled ones felt her affection, her support.
Doyamonti was so close to the humans that no-one
thought of her as a far-away-God, unlike her brother
Debomoy, who spent most of his time in the seventh
continent, where no humans lived, but their footprints
still remained frozen in transparent ice-covered paths.
Debomoy had a pair of wings, and he often levitated
to higher parts of the sky, where other Gods met him and
watched the extended arms down below calling for their
mercy. But by the time the Gods could reach the needy,
Doyamonti would be done with bestowing her grace
upon them.
It was also true that Doyamonti had to bear extra
weight. Everyone looked at her six-arms and visualised
her as powerful, but no-one saw the strength she
needed to carry those arms. She did not mind the excess
baggage, until one day, when she craved the air and
quietness of the planes above. As she went about her day,
she felt like a mere centipede with her many arms, and
not a benevolent Goddess. She felt empty, as though she
had never learned to receive for herself at all.
lifestylist

WOMEN WE DIDN’T BECOME

BY MEGHNA PANT
Author of Boys Don’t Cry, Feminist Rani, among
many others

It is on Instagram that Sheba realises her mother has

become a sad woman. Her features, faded in the soft
corners of Sheba’s memories, come back like a sharp
stab. The broad, fresh face, the smile both roguish and
tender, and what she supposes one calls twinkling eyes,
replaced by a woman—heavy with white hair, wearing
a baggy sweater, and distance that has grown like a
thorn between them. That’s what four years of patchy
phone conversations, of no WhatsApp messages, of no
social media, of being told by the revolving faces at the
US Embassy that if she left the US to go back to Iran,
she would not be allowed back in, of the inflation from

do to memories. BHADOO SAHIB

Bloody November sending her mother into near poverty

During the first year, when Manhattan’s long winter
winds cut through her fifty-dollar winter jacket, Sheba
longed for her mother’s knitted sweaters with that
forever-whiff of lavender. When her boss made her work
every fourth of July weekend—even as her colleagues
celebrated in Cape May—because she was a good Iranian
girl, wearing the hijab no-one else at work did, Sheba
yearned for one sweet bite of koloocheh her mother
baked during Eid-Al-Adha. When she came home to an
empty studio apartment in Queens, all she wanted was
her mother’s hug, warmer than the sun in Tehran. Where
was her mother when Sheba most needed her?
She is about to ignore her mother when she sees a
photo on her grid. It’s from Sheba’s last Christmas in
Iran. They are standing in their tiny living room, facing
the camera, mother holding Sheba like a bowl of haleem.
There’s no Christmas tree or infant Jesus. Her mother
believes that festivals celebrate humanity, not religion. So,
behind them, is a pile of dried thorns they’ll burn to ashes
to portend the good luck the following year will bring.
The year for which, just that morning, mother pawned all
her jewellery, so Sheba could get out of Iran. Her talent
not lost because she wears a skirt. Her mother believes
such things as well.
How can Sheba forget? She contrasts this post with her
mother’s other two posts—‘Eating alone in the dark’ and
‘Can’t hear the TV with guns outside’. There are no Likes
or Comments on these posts. Her mother must have
created the profile only to connect with Sheba.
What’s the point of this now? That life, her former
life, the struggle and uncertainty of it, seem unreal to
Sheba now as she sits in her one-bedroom apartment
on the Upper East side, goes to work for Goldman
Sachs on Wall Street, and wears the ring Peter has
given her for their engagement. Sheba has no need
for her mother in her shimmering new life.
But wait! Her mother’s profile pic. She’s sitting
on a stool inside their narrow coal cellar, where
they keep brooms, buckets, and broken things they
haven’t gotten around to fixing. Her mother is not
wearing a hijab! A bold move for a woman who, out
of fear, wears the hijab even while bathing! Sheba
can’t believe it. Is her mother finally giving herself a
choice? Is she finally giving her daughter a choice?
In some shape or form, love always finds a way
back. Her mother told Sheba, every time she caught
her staring at their dead father’s photo, Sheba sighs.
She has to find courage to paint outside the lines she’s
drawn for herself.
She removes her own hijab, for the first time since
she’s left Iran, and smiles. For there’s a way for Sheba
to bring her mother’s love back into her life... She
clicks on the ‘Follow Back’ button on her mother’s
profile, and becomes her mother’s first Insta follower.

282 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN

START-UP CINDERELLA
BY SAMHITA ARNI
Author of Sita’s Ramayana, The Missing Queen,
among others
There is a young woman called Cinderella. Her story
is just like the regular Cinderella story. She has an evil
stepmother, and two step sisters who are in love with the
most eligible bachelor in town, Pratish Charmalingham,
aka ‘Prince Charming’.
But it is Cinderella, borrowing a vintage gown from
BHADOO SAHIB
her elderly neighbour, who snuck into a Swayamvar at
the Bangalore Club and garnered the attention of Prince
Charming. And just like in the fairytale, she has to leave
at the stroke of midnight. Not long afterwards, ‘Prince’
Charmalingham comes looking for her, and this stirs up
a storm for Cinderella. Had ‘Prince’ really fallen in love
with her? Or was it the borrowed dress that she wore that
had excited his imagination?
So she runs away from her stepmother’s house. She
starts a new life in the start-up hub of Bangalore, working
as a cleaner in a rich Maharani’s house. The Maharani is
scornful and haughty. Cinderella can’t take it. She wants
to quit.
And then one day, she comes across her neighbour, an
elderly widow—staying next door to the Hostel for Single
Women, where Cinderella rented a room—desperately
trying to clean a stain.
“Here,” Cinderella says, “Let me do that.”
And the stain is as good as new. “You have a gift, young
woman,” the old lady tells her.
“A gift at cleaning!” Cinderella shrugs. “Don’t play
down your talents,” the old lady admonishes her.
Over a vada and a cup of tea, Cinderella tells the
elderly woman her story. “Shouldn’t I have married
‘Prince’?” she asks.
“No,” says the old lady, firmly, “there are many princes
in the world. But there’s only one you.”
“Live your life, live your dreams. Do you dream of
living in a castle?”
FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
“Yes...but,” Cinderella frowns. “It seems lonely.
Stifling. Just wearing beautiful gowns and opening
orphanages. I think it’s a good thing to do, but any
girl, with a great heart, can do that.”
“You want to do something else,” the old lady
prods. “Yes. I don’t know what, though.” The old lady
gives her a little bit of money for cleaning her house,
and asks Cinderella if she’d mind coming again the
next day to help her with the dishes.
It is in that moment that Cinderella realises that
she didn’t have to work for a rich, snooty Maharani.
She could work for old ladies for a bit of food, and
a cup of tea. She could work for young women and
men, who had come to the city to work and had no
time to clean their own houses.
So the next day, with the little bit of money that
the old lady had given her, Cinderella goes to the
printers to get herself business cards with the name
‘CINDERELLA CLEANERS’ printed on them.
But the young man at the store tells her that the
name isn’t catchy enough. “Cinder, ma’am, first-class
name. It rhymes with Tinder,” he tells her.
He goes on to show her how, for just `149 on a sale
on GoDaddy.Com, she could buy the domain name...
and in a matter of minutes showed her how to whip
up a website on Wix.
To return the favour, Cinderella helps him clean his
second-hand motorcycle, and leaves the print store
with a brand new business card.
CindeR is in business.
She is not just for the rich. Cinderella dreams of a
world where everyone has clean homes, and no-one
is treated like a servant. A world where cleaning is
democratised and affordable...and those who have to
clean are treated with dignity and respect. Soon, she
is inundated with e-mails and phone calls. She works
for the old lady next door, and then for a French tutor
down the road. Then, for a young, cash-strapped
woman, who is trying to make it as a designer. Then,
an older woman, with three children, and an elderly
mother, who just can’t keep her home clean. For two
old men, in their eighties, soldiers who live on small
pensions in little houses next door to each other.
Cinderella loves it. Her business expands. She
starts employing other young women who came into
town, like her, running away from their families and
looking for jobs. Soon Cinderella has the money to do
things she had dreamt of but never been able to do...
like go on a vacation to Paris.
She meets her ‘fairy Godmother’: an angel investor
who is helping her diversify.
Soon enough, CindeR’s services are available across
the country. And now, Cinderella is dreaming of
launching an IPO. Q
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 283
lifestylist

Luxury
State of Mind
TR AV E L
AGAIN!

Exterior view of
the resort on the
private island

BHADOO SAHIB

As the Dubai skyline

shines bright, while
you set your foot
into the blue waters,
experience living
Photographs: COURTESY THE BRAND

life at its best on a

truly private island
with Anantara World
Islands Dubai Resort. The private pool facing
the beach

284 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 The property’s
outdoor spa

ith the pandemic jiffy. You might want to bring your

(almost) in
hindsight, the
past two years
have made us
realise how important it is to live
our lives to the fullest and make
memories. That’s one of the reasons
why travel is booming ATM. As travel
restrictions lift up in various parts of
the world, we now have a plethora of
options to consider. However, if there
was one place you’d want to go and
stay forevah...it could be the Anantara
World Islands Dubai Resort. Perched
on the mouth of the Persian Gulf, the
five-star resort is an easy 10-minutes
boat ride away from Palm Jumeirah,
and 40-minutes away from the Dubai
International airport via road.
As soon as you step into the resort,
prepare to be welcomed by some
mega opulence. Take a stroll and
you’ll notice the calming hues of a
neutral palette accentuated by the
lush greenery of the surroundings.
camera along (or just mentally capture
photographs of the scenic views of the
blue waters that surround the island).
If you are travelling with boo, do
yourselves a favour and book the The pool bar at
the resort
thatched One Bedroom Beach Pool
villa—you’ll wake up to a floating
breakfast and birdsong!
But there’s more to the Anantara
World Islands Dubai Resort than chill
time. Nah, they intent on making
your stay unforgettable—think cinema
under the stars along with exclusive
dining at the beach (if you’re into Insta
photos, and who isn’t, these moments Living room at the Four
will make for some mega ’Gram- Bedroom Beach Pool Villa
worthy uploads). For ardent foodies,
the resort’s restaurants and lounge bar
offer a memorable culinary experience.
Carefully curated menus, aromatic
seafood offerings straight from the
ocean, and mixologists that craft some
bomb cocktails, all equal delicious
gourmet memories.
And now, for the water babies...there your mind and body. We suggest the

BHADOO SAHIB
And while you find yourself getting
lost in the tranquil nature of the
property, check out the private beach
that is just a few steps away. With luxe
facilities and impeccable hospitality,
this coastline is what sweet dreams are
made of. Featuring 70 guest rooms,
suites, and villas across 13 different
categories—you’ll also find privacy
like no other. Each room amalgamates
the comfort of living on a luxury island
and magnificent views. Those coming
in large groups, consider the Four
Bedroom Beach Pool Villa. The villa
lets you and your loved ones access
the private pool and the beach in a
are many aquatic adventures awaiting.
Did someone say Kayaks and paddle
boards? Yes! You could also arrange a
fishing trip to catch some hammour, or
simply spend your time angling. Later
in the day, gather for a game of beach
volleyball with the most incredible
views of the Middle East.
Next morning, get up early and
practice asanas on sand. And if you
want to feel like royalty, turn to the
Anantara Spa that houses six treatment
rooms, cosy spa cabanas along with
private bathtubs. Indeed, the spa is as
inviting as it can get, and you’ll discover
a gamut of treatments here, to nourish
traditional Thai Salt Pot Treatment
to relieve any travel (or life!) tension.
We have also heard good things about
the Hawaiian-inspired Island Lomi
Massage, which restores energy and
soothes the body over 60-90 minutes. If
you are an Ayurveda enthusiast, the spa
also has a special menu with detox and
slimming therapies.
Who’s ready to book a ticket to
Dubai? *Team Cosmo raises their
hands!* From offering moments of a
lifetime to unparalleled hospitality—
the Anantara World Islands Dubai
Resort might just be the escape that
you really need. Q

Open air, bubble dining for a

delectable dining experience

One of the bedrooms at

the Four Bedroom Beach
Pool Villa
lifestylist
Jodi Palm
Isik Lamp,
The Jodi Life,
`2,990

Jodhpur Bench,
Chumbak, `8,495

Ladies Eardrops
Tray, Yellow
Marigold, `2,450

Retro side table, This

Midnight Planter,
and That, `35,200
Nicobar, `1,450

Yam Two- Carousel

Pacific Dining Cushion,
Chair, Inv Toned Woven
Basket, Ikai Artisan Lab,
Home, `90,000 `2,290
Asai, `900

BHADOO SAHIB
Coir Horsey
Figurine,
Freedom
Tree,
`1,480

Lemon
Carafe,

Images: THE BRANDS; Lead image: GETTYIMAGES.COM; Compiled by: YASHIMA BABBAR
Plate and
Peonie,
`4,020

Floral Dessert
Platter, Argentor
Slick & Sleek
Silver at The House
Lampshade,

Vivid
of Things,
Dekor
`1,00,000
Company,
`10,999

Terra Cotta
Candle, The
Decor Circle,
`1,550

Accentuate your space with equal doses of colour, florals,

and artsy elements that spell serenity like no other.
286 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN
 Caliedo Rug,
Jaipur Rugs,
`33,600 for
5x8 feet

Wild Indian
Garden
Cocktail
Napkins, The
Art-chives,
`2,200 (for a
set of 4)

Rosette
Upholstered
Pouffe, Sarita
Handa, Motile Sofa,
`22,800 Bent Chair,
price on
Tufted Armchair, request
Gulmohar Lane,
`46,900 onwards
Herringbone
Table Lamp,
Mela Artisans,

GET `14,670 approx

IT RIGHT
Get playful with your space by
adding artefacts, paintings, funiture,
and upholstery with serious character.
Don’t be afraid to clash with colours or
prints, as long as you stick to no more than
three or four different shades. In the photo
Shard Art Cabinet,
below, you’ll notice how the walls and The Edit at The
sofas feature different shades of green, House of Things,
`68,000

BHADOO SAHIB
which come together beautifully with
help from some reds, yellows,
and neutral hues.

Rosewood
Cushion,
House of
Palm Candle Designery,
Stand, Good `1,650
Earth,
`6,800

Ivory
ceramic
vase, It’s All
About
Home,
`2,995
each

FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 COSMOPOLITAN 287
last word

Such a

Illustration: TANYA CHATURVEDI; Compiled by: YASHIMA BABBAR

BHADOO SAHIB
Samsung’s bespoke, Galaxy Z Flip4
Bespoke Edition,
Samsung,
new flip phone might `89,999

look like a sweet treat,

but this tech wonder is
truly futuristic. Featuring
a sustainable body
made with recycled
materials, it isn’t just a
smartphone...it’s also
a PC and professional
camera in a bite-sized,
flip-phone form.

290 COSMOPOLITAN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2022 FOR MORE GREAT STORIES, VISIT COSMO.IN TOTAL NUMBER OF PAGES 192 (INCLUDING COVER PAGES)