Indian designers Shantanu & Nikhil last week held a fashion show in London promoting khadi, the homespun cotton fabric once used by Mahatma Gandhi in his struggle for India’s independence.
In fact, the theme of the fashion show, which used images of Gandhi and a spinning wheel as a backdrop, was “Independence.”
During colonial times, the Brit-ish rulers banned the manufacture of local textiles and instead made it compulsory for Indians to buy imported cotton made in the mills of Lancashire.
Gandhi’s response was to urge Indians to boycott “foreign-made textiles” and switch to home spun khadi as part of his swadeshi (home rule) movement. This led to the Indian elite ceremonially burning expensive clothes import-ed from the UK.
Gandhi himself came to be associated with his wooden spinning wheel which was inefficient, produced poor quality cloth, but had huge symbolic value.
In Shashi Tharoor’s book, Inglorious Empire: What the British Did to India, it is alleged that the British went to the extent of destroying weaving machinery in India so people would be forced to rely on imports from Britain. Some weavers apparently even had their hands disfigured.
That khadi would one day become a fashionable fabric is prob-ably something that the Mahatma might not have foreseen.
But Shantanu said: “I am trying to bring patriotic chic.” The use of the Gandhi topi (hat) as well as chappals (slippers) for the men was intended to create nostalgia for “India before 1947”, he added.
It was predicted that Shantantu & Nikhil, who held their debut fashion show in the elegant surroundings of the Saatchi Gallery in the King’s Road, Chelsea, could become “the Louis Vuitton of India”.
Shantanu Mehra and Nikhil Mehra are brothers who formed their fashion partnership, Shantanu & Nikhil, in 1999.
Shantantu earned his MBA from the University of Toledo, Ohio, where he first understood the “potential of the upcoming Indian fashion industry”. Nikhil, meanwhile, enrolled for an advanced course at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles.
Their show coincided with the start of London Fashion Week, although it was not a part of it. The show had the backing of the Indian government, with the Indian high commissioner Yash Sinha and his wife Girija both pre-sent, stylishly attired in Shantanu & Nikhil creations.
He said: “I hope that such efforts will bring to the fore contemporary Indian fashion in the UK.”
It fitted in with the government’s “5F” policy: “Farm to Fibre; Fibre to Fabric; Fabric to Fashion; and, Fashion to Foreign.”
Shantanu & Nikhil do indeed intend to open a retail outlet in London. The “5F” reference was repeated by the show’s London organiser, Samir Ceric, who said he had negotiated with entrepreneur Utsav Kasera, who supports the fashion due.
“We decided to produce this show as the first step of Shantantu and Nikhil entering the London fashion scene in a big way,” said Ceric.
“The ambition is for us four to launch the business globally and turn Shantanu & Nikhil into the Louis Vuitton of India.
“The 5F formula forms the basis of this vision. The world needs Indian heritage and tradition in these challenging times.”
The duo’s client list reportedly includes Bollywood and cricket personalities, among them Am-itabh Bachchan, Glenn McGrath, Stephen Fleming, Zaheer Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Irfan Pathan, Hrithik Roshan, Shah Rukh Khan, Neha Dhupia, Dia Mirza, AR Rahman, Shilpa Shetty, Bipasha Basu and Sushmita Sen.
October marks Menopause Awareness Month, with World Menopause Day on 18 October.
South Asian women often face earlier menopause, more severe symptoms, and higher health risks.
Cultural stigma and silence leave many women isolated and unsupported.
The Sattva Collective CIC is the UK’s first organisation focused on South Asian women and menopause.
Founded by coach Kiran Singh, it provides safe spaces, resources, and monthly Midlife Circles.
Plans underway for a Midlife & Menopause Summit in October 2026.
Awareness is key: “Silence leads to shame. Awareness leads to empowerment.”
This October, the world observes Menopause Awareness Month, with World Menopause Day on 18th October. For many South Asian women, this is more than a health milestone, it is an opportunity to finally challenge silence, stigma, and cultural barriers that have silenced generations before us.
Menopause is universal. But its impact is not. Research shows that South Asian women often enter menopause earlier, with more severe symptoms and higher risks of diabetes and heart disease. Yet in many South Asian communities, menopause remains an unspoken subject, whispered about in kitchens, dismissed as “just part of ageing,” or hidden entirely.
The result? Women endure not only the physical changes of menopause but also isolation and shame.
The Sattva Collective CIC: A first of its kind
The Sattva Collective CIC (.www.thesattvacollective.org) is the UK’s first Community Interest Company dedicated specifically to South Asian women, midlife, and menopause. Founded by Kiran Singh (https://kiransinghuk.com/), herself a certified Midlife Lifestyle Coach and Menopause Wellness Coach, the organisation exists to create safe, culturally sensitive spaces where women can access education, share experiences, and reclaim dignity in midlife.
Through monthly Midlife Circle meet-ups, an online resource hub, and regular awareness campaigns, The Sattva Collective is making sure South Asian women know: you are not alone.
Looking forward, the organisation will host the Midlife & Menopause Summit in October 2026, timed with the Menopause Awareness Month, to bring together practitioners, experts, and women’s voices in a landmark event.
The stigma within
In South Asian families, women who express dissatisfaction in midlife are often told: “But your husband is a good man. Why complain?” Or: “It’s just ageing, everyone goes through it.”
But these dismissals hide a deeper truth: that emotional unavailability, loneliness, and invisibility are just as real as physical symptoms.
By naming these realities, The Sattva Collective empowers women to stop apologising for their needs and start demanding recognition, respect, and resources.
Awareness as empowerment
This Menopause Awareness Month, South Asian women deserve to be seen not as a cultural afterthought, but as central voices in the global conversation.
As Singh notes: “Silence leads to shame. Awareness leads to empowerment. When we speak, we break the cycle for the next generation.”
Moving forward
Eastern Eye readers are invited to support this movement by:
- Talking to mothers, sisters, and daughters about menopause.
- Sharing resources within families and community groups.
-Supporting organisations like The Sattva Collective CIC that are leading change.
This October, let us break the generational silence around menopausebecause every South Asian woman deserves to navigate midlife with dignity, confidence, and compassion.
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The new ‘Stratus’ Covid strain is testing UK defences
New Stratus strain linked to hoarse voice among UK cases
Experts say no increase in severity, vaccines remain effective
Reduced testing makes tracking variants increasingly difficult
Noticing the subtle signs
Across England, some people are reporting a hoarse voice alongside mild cold-like symptoms — a subtle signal of the new Stratus Covid strain. With its two offshoots, XFG and XFG.3, this variant is quietly becoming a larger part of UK infections.
Unlike previous waves marked by fever or loss of smell, the Stratus strain is drawing attention for more understated changes, prompting doctors to remind the public that even minor symptoms can indicate infection.
Dr Alex Allen, consultant epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency, said:
“Viruses continue to mutate over time. While Stratus is spreading, there is no evidence it causes more severe illness than previous variants.”
Tracking Covid in a low-testing era
Falling numbers of people taking Covid tests make it harder for authorities to measure the true spread of XFG and XFG.3. Internationally, XFG has already appeared in Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Americas.
The World Health Organisation has assessed the variant as “low risk” globally. Vaccines remain effective against symptomatic and severe disease, though certain spike protein mutations in Stratus may partially reduce antibody recognition.
Everyday precautions and awareness
While hospitalisations have not risen sharply, medical experts advise paying attention to subtle symptoms like a hoarse voice, particularly for children, older adults, and those with pre-existing conditions.
Dr Kaywaan Khan, Harley Street GP, said:
“Stratus shows that Covid continues to evolve. Staying alert to mild symptoms and maintaining vaccinations remain the best tools for protection.”
For many, the lesson is that Covid’s presence is still felt in everyday life — sometimes in the smallest, most unexpected ways.
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Traditional sarees in blue and white marked the occasion
Charity walk at Clumber Park united 38 participants across generations
Traditional sarees in blue and white marked the occasion
Over £2,000 raised for Parkinson’s UK
Sarees and solidarity at Clumber Park
Members of the Bangladeshi community in Yorkshire gathered this summer for a colourful charity walk that raised more than £2,000 for Parkinson’s UK.
The event, held on 26 July at Clumber Park in Worksop, was organised by the Dhaka Medical College Alumni Association UK (DMCAA UK). Thirty-eight participants, from children to grandparents in their 60s, walked in coordinated blue and white sarees – colours reflecting Parkinson’s UK – turning the park into a vibrant celebration of culture, unity, and purpose.
Families walking for a cause
The day was about more than fundraising. It brought together families across generations, with children not only joining the walk but also being recognised with certificates for their involvement. After the walk, the community enjoyed a picnic, where younger participants shared their reflections on the importance of giving back.
Dr Mahjabin Islam, Consultant Neurologist and NIHR Sheffield BRC Doctoral research fellow at the University of Sheffield, described the event as a milestone:
“This was our first large-scale fundraising effort, and it was such a rewarding experience. Seeing families, from the youngest to the eldest, come together in our cultural attire for such an important cause was very special. We are proud that our community could unite in this way to support Parkinson’s UK.”
It was organised by the Dhaka Medical College Alumni Association UKParkinson’s UK
A growing need for awareness
Parkinson’s is the fastest-growing neurological condition in the world, affecting 166,000 people across the UK. With over 40 symptoms, ranging from tremor and pain to anxiety, the condition has no cure.
Ailsa Dragan, Community Fundraiser for Yorkshire at Parkinson’s UK, praised the effort:
“We’re so grateful to Dr Islam, the DMC Alumni Association UK, and everyone who both organised and took part in the walk to make it such a great success.”
For the organisers, the walk was both a cultural celebration and a commitment to supporting those living with Parkinson’s – and a reminder that small community-led efforts can make a meaningful difference.
The International Siddhashram Shakti Centre has brought devotion and colour to Harrow with its 19th annual Navratri Garba celebrations, launched on 22 September at the Harrow Leisure Centre under the guidance of HH Rajrajeshwar Guruji. The fortnight-long festival, running until 2 October, will end with a Sharad Poonam finale on 5 October. This year, the event also honoured 60 years of Harrow Council, reinforcing the connection between culture, faith and civic pride.
Aniruddhacharya Ji’s Message
Visiting saint Pujya Shri Aniruddhacharya Ji Maharaj, in London for a Shrimad Bhagwat Katha organised by Siddhashram, addressed the gathering with a call to balance modern education with spiritual roots.
“Chant the Hanuman Chalisa, study the Gita and Ramayan, and never forget your Dharma even as you achieve in the modern world,” he said. “Guruji’s efforts are extraordinary in uniting communities and strengthening Sanatan values globally.”
Spiritual Blessings
Guruji reminded devotees that Navratri is more than dance. “It is about awakening the soul, staying united, and living with devotion. This year, as we celebrate Harrow Council’s 60th anniversary, may Mataji bless everyone with wisdom, strength and joy,” he said.
Civic Leaders Speak
The event drew praise from local MPs and civic leaders. Gareth Thomas MP described it as “a celebration that enriches Harrow’s diversity”. Bob Blackman MP called it “a proud moment reflecting unity across generations.”
Harrow Council’s Managing Director, Alex Dewsnap, said the combined celebration of Navratri and the Council’s 60th year showed how “faith, culture and civic duty are intertwined in Harrow.” Mayor Cllr Anjana Patel praised Siddhashram for “preserving traditions while uniting people of all backgrounds.” Council Leader Cllr Paul Osborn said the Garba “captures the joy and togetherness that define Harrow.”
Several councillors including Cllr Hitesh Karia, Cllr Vipin Mithani, Cllr Kanti Rabadia, Cllr Krishna Suresh, Cllr Sasi Suresh, Cllr Chetna Halai, Cllr Graham Henson, Cllr Stephen Greek, Cllr Thaya Idaikkadar, Cllr Kuha Kumaran, Cllr Ramji Chauhan, Cllr Mina Parmar, and former Mayors Bhagwanji Chauhan, Ajay Maru and Cllr Pankit Shah, Labour Party leaders Mike Williams and James Watkins also joined the celebrations. Notable guests included Manoj Ladwa and philanthropist Samjibhai Patel, who honoured civic leaders on Siddhashram’s behalf.
Saints Abhiramacharya Ji Maharaj of Prayagraj and Pujya Shri Jentibapa from Gujarat also graced the celebrations.
Representatives from the Metropolitan Police, Fire Brigade, British Army, Royal Navy, St John’s Ambulance and Harrow Interfaith groups joined on different days, demonstrating strong community support.
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Selena Gomez wedding shocks fans with dual Ralph Lauren gowns and Old Hollywood bob reveal
Selena Gomez married Benny Blanco in Santa Barbara on September 27.
The pop star wowed in a Ralph Lauren halter gown and a second sheer lace dress.
Her Old Hollywood Marcel wave bob was the highlight of the bridal look.
Guests included Taylor Swift, Paul Rudd, Martin Short, Steve Martin, and Paris Hilton.
Celebrity weddings increasingly use multiple outfits as branding and PR moments.
Selena Gomez wedding photos are finally here, and yes, she looked absolutely stunning. The pop star tied the knot with Benny Blanco in Santa Barbara, California, rocking not one but two Ralph Lauren dresses, each perfectly timed for different parts of the day. Her old Hollywood bob hairstyle completed the look, giving classic glamour vibes while also showing how stars stage multiple wardrobe moments for maximum impact.
Selena Gomez wedding shocks fans with dual Ralph Lauren gowns and Old Hollywood bob reveal Instagram/selenagomez/itsbennyblanco
Old Hollywood bob steals the spotlight
Gomez’s hairstylist, Renato Compora, went all out, crafting a Marcel wave bob that looked straight out of a 1950s Hollywood set. He layered treatments, deep conditioning, and thermal protection before curling every inch, creating those soft, polished waves. Fans have seen Gomez experiment with her bob before, but this wedding-ready style was absolute perfection.
First, there was the custom satin halter gown with a flowing full skirt: classic, romantic, and timeless. Then, Blanco shared photos showing Gomez in a sheer lace skirt with intricate floral detailing, strappy heels, and a dramatic veil. But it is not just a fashion flex. Celebrities are increasingly using multiple looks to craft a narrative, create media buzz, and showcase personal branding across different wedding moments.
The wedding was not just about the couple; it was a Hollywood mini-festival. Taylor Swift arrived solo. Ed Sheeran, Paris Hilton, and Gomez’s co-stars from Only Murders in the Building, Paul Rudd, Steve Martin, and Martin Short, were all there. The ceremony at Sea Crest Nursery had 170 family and friends, complete with private security, exquisite floral touches, and Ralph Lauren suits for the groom and his groomsmen.
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Celebrity wedding trends and branding
Gomez’s multiple looks hint at a bigger trend: weddings as brand statements. Celebrities are increasingly viewing their weddings as an extension of their public persona, right down to the meticulously chosen dresses and hairstyles. Every ensemble, photo carousel, and accessory presents an opportunity to establish the narrative, attract media attention, and convey a tale without using words.