| The unstoppable Mehndi
is not only all about his music. Hold on, what we mean to say is
that the man's dedication to his art can't be doubted but then again,
what makes him stand out against the multitude of popsters is his
unique sense of style. Once termed and awarded the "Most Stylish
Person in Music" trophy by the fashion and lifestyle glossy,
Elle, here is a man who definitely wants every eye on him, and he
has the bravado and the dazzling joyous smile to pull it off too.
We, however, propose that the Mehndi panache is not so much about
clothes as it is about the spirit he brings to them - and everything
else he touches. Call it happy-go-lucky, call it plain boisterous,
but he would rather classify himself as conservative with a little
bit of an edge. "I want something that's different from what
everyone else has. I'm very clear-cut about myself … I don't
conform to trends." That shows!
Right from his Bolo Ta Ra Ra Ra days, Mehndi has sported so many
looks that it might give the material girl, a run for her image.
If during Bolo Ta Ra Ra Ra the plain bandana look was on, soon Mehndi
switched on to something that has become his trademark - the diamanté
pug. The classic pug has almost become a Mehndi copyright, so much
so that over the years, his garb might have changed, but the pug
has remained a staple. What's more, the style icon has done more
for the choga than any Indian designer dealing in ethnic revival
would do. The flowing robes inspired by Baba Ala Singh have found
many fans in India and abroad. In fact, the robes are still being
duly copied for stage shows abroad! The trendsetter that Mehndi
is, he knows and is comfortable with his appeal. He has a lifestyle
that shouts pop icon. In fact, it would be right to add that he
is the only Indian pop star with an image of a pop star. Mehndi,
the man has liking and an eye for all things beautiful. A collector
of gems, the man has an enviable collection of not only precious
stones but also all things that catch his fancy. Be it the kasturi
ittar or the string of Basra pearls, Mehndi collects all this and
more with much enthusiasm and takes so much care.
A self-confessed car aficionado, the man loves to drive around in
style. The latest acquisition of his car stable, a black Volkswagen
Beetle, is his pride and joy right now.
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