Black jacket, blue denims, a vibrant pair of sneakers and her trademark bright smile. When Sushmita Sen walked into July, a fashion store on Ballygunge Circular Road, one Sunday afternoon, on her recent visit to the city, with her “jaan” Rohman Shawl, she seemed to carry with her a whoosh of positive energy. Not an iota of make-up on her face, Sushmita pulled her hair back into a bun as she tried one flowy piece after another, pairing it with statement jewellery. That confidence. That charm. That’s Sushmita Sen. July founder Tanya Jaiswal later told t2 more about her special guest.
How was it having Sushmita Sen over at July?
It was surreal having her in our store. I mean she’s inspired so many of us to pursue our dreams and live the life we want to. She’s always the queen of the universe in my heart. It’s not only her beauty that’s mesmerising but just the way she carries herself. She’s so humble and grounded in spite of being such a global celebrity, it’s refreshing and so genuine.
Sushmita Sen with Tanya Jaiswal. Rashbehari Das
What all did she like?
I could see she was inclined towards deep monochromatic colours in relaxed silhouettes. Since she’s so effortlessly elegant, it was an honour for us to have her validate our Indo-modern designs, which usually have minimal work and allow the flow of the fabric to create an easy yet glamorous look. She enjoyed those and also was interested in pairing the outfits with some of the art jewellery we retail at the store. These statement pieces complete the look when one is going out and it feels amazing that ‘the Sushmita Sen’ agrees with our style!
That Sushmita laugh. In picture with Gautam Vir Prashad Sourced by the correspondent
Why do you think she is timeless?
When you think of a classic beauty I think Sushmita Sen definitely comes to anyone’s mind. She’s always been far ahead of her times in her thinking and that adds to her charm. I think before we knew what feminism means, Sushmita Sen was propagating equal opportunity and the ability to live life on one’s own term by doing exactly that. These are values that will stand true at any point of time and that’s why she’s timeless.
A glimpse of the jewellery Sushmita checked out Sourced by the correspondent
What did she think of the art and the studio?
She absolutely loved it. She was immediately drawn to and fascinated with the new series currently on display — Then & Now — where old Indian art is deconstructed and juxtaposed on a contemporary photographic backdrop. It’s my husband and creative partner, Gautam’s (Vir Prashad) latest exploration into mixed media art.
How long have you known her?
I have always known her as the star Sushmita Sen, but it was a great experience to actually interact with her on a personal level. She is so warm and very welcoming. This whole encounter has been thoroughly delightful.
