He has designs on Mastani!

Mona

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To be the fiery, sword flashing Mastani in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s magnum opus, Bajirao Mastani, ace Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone underwent intensive training in martial arts and classical dance. More than 1000 km away, in Delhi, was Vinay Gupta, co-owner, Shri Hari Diagems, spending sleepless nights, making precious jewellery for Mastani.

While each piece made in real gold is a result of pure artisanship giving machines a break. Elaborate research was carried out to give an authentic touch to Mastani’s sparklers. The ‘passa’ she dons in one of the scenes is a piece of Mughal jewellery made in pure gold with diamond polkis and beautiful carving in the front and at the back. The old Mughal style nath, made in 24 carat gold, is studded with Burma rubies. Vinay Gupta opens up on the intricate process designing for the film Bajirao Mastani.

Shri Hari Diagems helmed by six generations of jewellers has vast experience in designing. How different was it designing for a film?

It sure was a different experience as when working with a movie one needs to go deep into the character and keep each scene in mind. The jewellery had to complement Mastani and do justice to the scene.

What was the brief, what kind of research went into designing Mastani’s jewels?

The brief provided to us said that Mastani was half-Hindu and half-Muslim. Her jewellery represented love and had to be exotic too. And the fusion culture of Maharashtra and Mughal needed to be brought out.

How was the Bajirao Mastani journey for you?

The whole lot was designed by me in Delhi and then the look tests happened for the same as the garments, jewellery had to match and do justice to the character. Each piece was real as Sanjay Ji being a perfectionist and Bajirao Mastani being his dream project wanted each thing best and real. He was very impressed with our work.

Going by the current rends, what are the five must-haves for the modern working bride?

I would say a judicious mix for the D-day and something that can be worn for later outings. By the ongoing trend, I would insist on each bride having a nath, passa, tikka, beautiful and delicate bracelet and vintage royal necklace. You can add on indefinitely!

mona@tribunemail.com