If you think the hype of Baahubali is lessening, think again. While audiences the world over are in raptures over the riveting plotline and eye-catching costumes, the fantasy film is inspiring a spectrum of make-up tutorials across social media. The royal and bold looks of Devasena, portrayed by Anushka Shetty, have hooked in beauty enthusiasts in particular.
The numerous responses to the kajal-heavy, rosy lips and flawless skin speak volumes of the innumerable make-up application trends in circulation.
The skin speaks
Devasena, whether she’s knee-deep in ground-shaking battle or poised elegantly upon a throne, has incredible skin and California-based Smitha Deepak brings this youthful complexion to life through a arduous base routine. “Devasena’s beauty is embodied deep within the character she portrays, she’s not afraid to stand up for herself and the people she loves, she needs no permission to make her choices, has a good head on her shoulders and is unapologetic for all these; and of course, Anushka looks beautiful. In the era where women were not given too many choices, she stands shoulder-to-shoulder with other men in the kingdom. I believe this is something every girl can relate to, including me and that’s where she stands iconic in her beauty and character.”
In the films, Devasena’s largely matte skin is brought about through Smitha’s use of a mattifying primer and foundation. It is the generous use of highlighter but subtle contour which add the notes of glory and royalty. Sunset tones from bronzer to lip colour add the warmth notable in every one of Devasena’s scenes. A fan of understated smokey eyes, Smitha lives up to her inclinations without taking away from the zest of Devasena’s look. She takes it all one step forward, sharing she made most of jewellery herself, from the earrings to the nose-ring.
Upon finishing the look, she describes the feeling as surreal but only to an extent, “Unlike many sci-fi movies out there, if you actually dig deep into the finished looks, they encompass simplicity, elegance with prominence to specific items like the way the bindi is drawn, the hairstyles, the ensemble and of course the accessories. Overall, when I watched the movie, I felt like the looks command respect as they portray royalty.”
Insta-style
Hitting the ‘Explore’ button on Instagram unveils a motley of visages rocking cut contours, outrageous lashes, blinding highlighting and vivid eyeshadow— the kind of trend that enlivens out your inner-selfie-soul.
‘Instagram make-up’ is a derivative of Arabian beauty of constructed brows and plump lips. Toronto-based Krish Kreations recreates Devasena’s timeless beauty with an Insta-interpretation. It is a bold look with elongated eyeliner grouped with blue-glitter eyeshadow, ‘supermodel’ brows, remarkable strobing and the platform-popular matte lips.
While not a direct translation of Devasena’s appearance, the interpretation is pulled together through the usage of a nathni and other jewellery the character dons.
Artistry nailed right
Canadian-based Yarlesha Anantharajah, whose tutorial on her YouTube channel YArtistry has garnered over 1.5 million hits, summons the regal beauty through a realistic means. While the films have been popular, Yarlesha comments that she was merely inspired by the actress’ look rather than it being an exact replication. She adds that the look is perfect for the wedding season for its illuminated base and mesmerising smokey eyes, evoking a ‘no filter needed’ aesthetic.
Like Smitha Deepak, the use of warm earthy tones are universal for Devasena-oriented effects, making for a striking final result when wearing heavy gold jewellery. She also keeps it real right down to the trademark bindi.
Picturesque pageantry
2003 Femina Miss India Earth Shweta Vijay brought some funk into her portrayal of Devasena’s beauty. Mimicking the entrancing bold eyes while pairing it with a nude matte lip presented a simple premise. Shweta skipped the heavy brow work seen in many other videos, keeping the look as true to the character as possible.
These are, of course, only a few of the many tributes to the beauty in Baahubali . A lot of the videos featured hairstyle demos and the sari draping that Anushka rocked. And we have a feeling this is only the beginning.
