Ripped denims, a simple and classy beige top, legs folded on the sofa comfortably. That was Nusrat Jahan post-shoot at the beautiful ITC Royal Bengal service residence. She looked relaxed. “I have become calmer,” she smiled. Her circle of friends still remains the same and she would still like to serve up a variety when it comes to work, but a “few new things” born out of the pandemic has made her “a better person”, she felt. The new dawn spelt promise and hope for Nusrat. “The circle of life goes on,” she smiled.

What has 2020 done to you?

Ruffled my feathers! I would not complain work-wise, but 2020 instilled fear and void in people’s minds. I get up every morning and thank god for the new day, that we are healthy and fit… my family and close ones. All I heard was people dying. We don’t know if the earth will survive in the near future. So, we don’t know what happens to the next generation. We were not prepared for this, but the human race is so equipped that we are fighting this too. I am not saying we have been able to pin Covid down, but we have been brave.

What has changed in you?

I have become patient. I always was, but this is another level of patience and I don’t mind being like this. I have started to value the small things of life that we hardly paid attention to. Being stuck in my house, I realised what it is that I wanted the most, needed the most. Once I accepted and embraced the fact that my wants are not that important, my job gets easier. I have clarity. We realised spending time with the family was so important. And, it’s not just me. Every person has realised this and evolved.

So, have you figured what you need?

Peace. I think everyone does. We have been running after money, career and success. Unknowingly too, you have been a part of the rat race. When you stop running in the race, because there is no race happening, that’s when you realise what you need. The goal is happiness.

How are your reviewing love and relationships?

The fear of losing someone and not being able to see that person again because of the pandemic... shokolke aagle rakha. You realise the importance of people and relationships in your life. We have stopped taking relationships for granted. I know deep within where I stand in the different relationships in my life. That makes life simple.

We have all realised the value of time. What kind of work would be worthy of your time, going into 2021?

I have never chased work, but I want to do all kinds of films. I was glam in SOS and when I was dubbing for Dictionary, I couldn’t recognise myself. I am also a public representative (being an MP) and this is the most tedious and thankless work I have ever done. I am not expecting them to thank me, but I am really enjoying it.

So, 2021 will be about…

Positivity. I want to wake up early in the morning and soak in the sunshine. I am not saying Covid will disappear but it’s the approach and we are moving towards a brighter future.

Stylist speak: Chikky Goenka

Chikky Goenka Sourced by the correspondent

How would you sum up the mood board of the shoot?

I would say fun, futuristic, relatable and relaxed.

How will 2021 redefine fashion and style?

‘Less is more’ has never been more prominent before... small investments in outfits that’ll serve you more than one wear. Also outfits that can be restyled in many ways will make way to everyone’s wardrobe. It’s also important we start making sustainable choices in fashion. ‘Made in India’ and handlooms will play a huge role in the new age of fashion.

Pick three staples for 2021…

Oversized garments, calf-length dresses and kaftans.

The hottest star in the wardrobe for 2021 will be...

Luxe loungewear sets in clothes and scarves and sneakers in accessories.

Your fashion mantra going into 2021...

Invest in classics. Do my research before investing in a piece (it’s easier now since most brands are online), and support indie labels, even in my everyday wear.

Pictures: Pabitra Das

Styling: Chikky Goenka

Make-up: Sourab Mitra

Hair: Sandip Nag

Location courtesy: ITC Royal Bengal