Anjana Kuthiala and Vandy Mehra paid a tribute to 100 years of Hindi cinema in their own unique way. Priyanka Joshireports
It was an evening that marked a tribute to 100 years of cinema at Amrita Shergill Marg, with an exhibit of paintings by Anjana Kuthiala and a thematic fashion show by Vandy Mehra, hosted by the ambassador of the Kingdom of Denmark Freddy Savane and Mrs lise Frederiksen.
“Bollywood has always played an important role in my life,” Kuthiala said. “And since no one was celebrating the centenary of cinema in Delhi, I decided to do it myself.”
Kuthiala’s paintings were exhibited on the all-white stage and three other paintings of celebrities were displayed to the right. Bollywood was the flavour of the day.
The fashion show itself was like no other. Celebrities and other achievers walked the ramp styled as Bollywood legends even as the hit tunes they are most remembered by played in the background. Actors Naseer Abdullah, Bobby Khan, model Amit Ranjan, Sona Goyal and lav Bhargava were part of the show. Actors Jas Arora, Bubbles Sabharwal, Monisha Bajaj and even Kuthiala and Mehra themselves were part of the show. Kuthiala was dressed up as Rekha, complete with the yellow zari sari and the long-sleeved blouse.
“People tell me I look like Shabana Azmi but I think it is Rekha’s personality that suits me most,” Kuthiala said.
“The theme was intriguing and challenging,” Mehra said. “Anjana and I had different work responsibilities but I think we managed to beautifully put together the evening.”
The ambience was perfect for a Bollywood-themed party. Champagne flowed, the chef’s special aphrodisiac menu intoxicated and music pepped up spirits.
“I have been associated with the film industry for a long time and have painted a number of Bollywood stars over the years,” Kuthiala said.
“Vandy and I decided to do something different to celebrate 100 years of cinema. Vandy put together the show and I designed the ensembles. It was our little way of thanking this wonderful industry.”