Month: February 2017

RootsandLeisure_MahimaNanda

Travelling Solo and Without Money, to the Northeast by Mahima Nanda

Remember the last time you found yourself at an airport? Imagine yourself finding your way through a railway station’s busy footfalls, sweaty and tired and worried about the debt you’re racking up by spending thousands of rupees to go to yet another dream getaway. And while you’re at it, occasionally your eyes catch a glimpse of someone like Mahima Nanda. This female solo traveller, who is also an Arts student from JNU at New Delhi, is one of those incredibly put-together people who never seem fazed by train delays, flight cancellations or other hassles that inevitably come with travel. And there’s a reason she looks so sanguine: her latest trip to the beautiful Kashmir and Ladakh has cost her ZERO rupees. Mahima Nanda is in her second year towards pursuing a BA (Hons) in French degree from the Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi. She was born in Guwahati but spent most of her childhood in Dehradun, New Delhi, and Mumbai. Mahima is an ardent nature lover and likes to spend time walking or biking in …

Being a Runway Success with Supermodel Ketholeno Kense from Nagaland

Ketholeno Kense is a name that needs no introduction. Just a year after winning the prestigious Kingfisher Calendar Hunt in 2014, she quickly made her mark in the industry by modelling for top designers such as Atsu Sekhose and Tarun Tahiliani. Kense is a shining example of how the Indian runway fashion scene is embracing new and distinctive personalities. Her star power has even caught the attention of renowned international publications such as Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, and Vogue! With the essentials at hand and a unique romance with the industry, today Ketholeno is more inspired than ever to delve deeper into the craft of modelling. Roots & Leisure recently caught up with the ravishing Naga beauty to discuss her creative journey and future aspirations. R&L: We would love to know how you became who you are today. How was it for you when you first started? Leno Kense: I started modelling in college because my height presented me with a lot of opportunities. But back then, I didn’t have a serious plan to follow it …

RootsandLeisure_Suraj

Suraj Nongmaithem: Connecting People through Photography

It is so fascinating to see people who showcase sheer brilliance with different forms of art. Be it music, dance, writing or photography, each artform is a powerful tool to either express yourself or simply explore society and more specifically, its people. Meet Suraj Nongmaithem from Manipur, who is working as a design consultant in Singapore. He reached out to R&L, and we were more than happy to know more about him. His work takes inspiration from a mix of cultures – and at the same time, aspires to find a common thread that runs across each one of us – irrespective of where we come from. Hi Suraj, tell us a little bit about yourself. I’m originally from Manipur, but I’ve lived all across India, thanks to my dad who’s with the Indian Armed Force. I am currently working as a design consultant for a company in Singapore. I plan to do my masters in photography from a fine arts college in Europe (currently awaiting an acceptance letter). I have also freelanced for Rolling Stones India. How …

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Top 5 Things to Do if You are Travelling to Nagaland

  So how much do you know about Nagaland? Well, let’s assume that you’ve heard just enough to be interested in planning a trip soon! That’s a good start. Here is a brief guide on some of the local hot spots to give you a flavor of what to expect.  1. ROAD TRIPPING If you are travelling to the northeast of India, allocate ample time to each state if you wish to explore them fully. Because the best way to soak in the beauty of this part of the country is through a road trip – where you can get a good view of the natural scenic beauty. The roads may be challenging at some spots, but definitely worth the ride. Advisable to take the aid of the locals or tour experts like IndiaTrail, who can custom design your trip, based on your preferences. 2. SPEND SOME TIME IN A VILLAGE To truly experience and understand the local life, we strongly recommend a stay in one of the villages. Pangti Village in Wokha might be a good choice. The …

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Top Fashion Trends from the Streets of Nagaland

  Staying in touch with the latest trends in fashion feels like a primary requisite these days. Don’t you agree? After all, putting an effort to dress well is not about vanity – but rather an expression of the best self. When that is the message, can we give our artistic spirit (yes we all have it!) a little more voice? . . . and with many fashionistas around to lend us some inspiration, one needn’t go to Milan or Paris, to check what’s trending. Here are the top 5 fashion trends  – reporting live from the Streets of Nagaland! #1 : DENIM JACKET Kutholeno sporting her oversized denim jacket with a loose black dress to compliment her casual – yet very stylish self. Aleno wears a denim jacket – experimenting with layers, for a casual day out on a warm, yet slightly chilly Kohima weather. #2 THIGH HIGH BOOTS Asenla wears her thigh highs with a button up skirt and tights, on a no-sunlight-kind-of-day, making the weather look less grumpy. Amen pairs her high boots with a fitted denim and a well cut leather jacket …