Whether it’s Amitabh Bachchan’s a rare genetic disorder (progeria), or Rekha’s surreal makeup in the 1981 period drama Umrao Jaan, the role of prosthetics and makeup in the Indian film industry has been underrated but crucial. It’s mesmerising to see an actor transform into a character, making the hard-hitting dialogues they deliver on camera more credible. Indeed, makeup and hair can help shape a character as much as the actor’s dialogue and skill.
From Sadhana’s iconic fringe cut and curtain bangs, to Sharmila Tagore’s winged eyeliner, Bollywood’s beauty looks have set trends for decades. It’s not wrong to say that, beauty has always been a major pillar that aids the building of a persona. It’s time to laud the artists of Indian cinema who have played a pivotal role in designing these unforgettable looks for decades.
And, as we pay homage to them, it is also important to talk about the legendary talent that we have lost in the recent past, who picked up makeup brushes at a time when beauty was an unexplored arena. Veteran makeup artist Pandhari Juker, who passed away in 2020 at the age of 88, was one of Bollywood’s most iconic makeup artists, who worked with prominent actors such as Meena Kumari, Madhubala, Dilip Kumar and Dev Anand. He was a pioneer when it came to makeup in the industry and trained many prominent makeup artists such as Mickey Contractor and Bharat Godambe. Considered the ‘Godfather’ of makeup by many, Juker was recognised with a National Film Award for his contribution to the industry for over six decades.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
THE GOODNESS OF GHEE
What: The Pure Cow Ghee range for babies with sensitive skin from Himalaya Babycare
Hello Hyderabad!
The Kaftan Company makes its debut in Hyderabad with a physical store
A COSMIC CULINARY JOURNEY
Located in the vibrant heart of Kolkata, That Place Bowl & Bar aims to be something out of the ordinary
BIG ON THE SCREEN
Writer-director INDIRA DHAR is no newcomer to international film festivals, but a standing ovation at Cannes for her latest film was an unforgettable experience. She talks to Shraddha Kamdar about the inspiration, her love for films and more
COMMAND RESPECT EFFORTLESSLY
Try these strategies if you hate not being taken seriously.
FIND CALM IN CHAOS
Deal with difficult situations using the principles of stoicism.
GREENER IN THE CUP
Samiksha Bhowmik details why a cup of matcha needs to be part of your diet
THE BEST OF TWO VIBRANT WORLDS
LYLA, in Mumbai's BKC, seamlessly blends Central American vibrancy with Californian flair
A Melange Of the Middle East & Indian Spices
Bringing contemporary twists to tradition, MERCHANT & ME is a youthful urban space for cuisine and cocktails in Pune
10 REASONS WHY SEYCHELLES COULD BE YOUR DREAM DESTINATION
Seychelles hits all the high notes on the romance roster whether you're on honeymoon or a love break.