Piece of Home

A Diwali away from the motherland has taught these creatives to make the most of what they have

- BARRY RODGERS

Ankur Maniar, Photographer & stylist, New York

For Maniar, who has styled and shot campaigns for Prabal Gurung and Rosie Assoulin, among others, growing up in the States meant that his holiday season comprised Diwali, Thanksgiving, and Christmas – all of which were celebrated “intimately and at home”. “It was always just our family of four, surrounded by dias and mithai, with puja in the morning, and speakers blasting Bollywood music in the evening.” However, with the novel coronavirus ensuring muted celebrations this year, Maniar believes it’s a seasonal reminder to practice mindfulness, love and gratitude, compassion and forgiveness, philanthropy, and self-care.

On fostering community: “The pandemic has given me the space and time to reevaluate my relationship with myself and focus inwardly on empathy and compassion. I see radical self-love as the key to engaging authentically with community, uplifting friends and family, and healing as a collective unit.”

In style: “I’ve matched my favourite vintage Versace corduroy blazer with a pre-loved Jean Paul Gaultier mesh velvet burnout Tee, Paria Farzaneh joggers, and thrifted Miu Miu loafers. For jewellery, I’ve paired an oxidised silver Marc Jacobs cuff with brass and copper rings from Barcelona and Mexico City. With sustainability being at the core of my style, this look represents the people and spaces I hope to empower through my purchases – socially responsible brands, designers of colour, vintage stores, small businesses, and artisan communities.”