It has often been called India’s answer to the legendary Pirelli Calendar. Launched in 2003 and distributed to a select few, the Kingfisher Swimsuit Calendar has brought together the best of the Indian fashion industry --- designers, models and photographers --- year after year. Always shot at the most exotic locales around the world, in 2012 the Calendar travelled to Sri Lanka with ace photographer Atul Kasbekar for another outstanding shoot across Jetwing properties.
The sensual shoot spread to cover 12 months of picturesque beauty in a stupendous environment is shot across Jetwing Hotels, Sri Lanka - Jetwing Lighthouse, Galle, Jetwing Era Beach, Thalpe, Jetwing Blue, Negombo, Jetwing Ayurveda Pavilions, Negombo.
Ace photographer, Atul Kasbekar, shares, “Sri Lanka is every photographers delight. Exotic landscape, fantastic light and very comfy humidity levels make it easier to do shooting outdoor all day. The location is an extremely important aspect of any photoshoot and Sri Lanka, for its untouched natural beauty and wildlife, seemed to be the ideal destination. Jetwing hotels have exceptional properties with a level of service that is unmatched. I have tried to use the location creatively in order to get graphics of international appeal.”
Jetwing hotels spread around the country from Negombo to Galle and Nuwara Eliya. This island of paradise is known for true diversity - pristine beaches, lush mountain retreats and rural hideaways; lavish colonial splendour and chic modern luxury all set amidst award-winning architectural design.
“Over the years, Kingfisher has been providing a platform for emerging talent including Katrina Kaif, Nargis Fakhri and Nathalia Pinheiro. The calendar comprises of amazing bikini shots amidst sand, water, natural surroundings and open sky,” he adds.
The models who will grace the 2012 pages include Angela Jonsson, Maia Haydon, Saiyami Kher, Tina Desai, Mimi Blix and the winner of the Kingfisher Calendar Hunt.
Kavita Lakhani and Akansha Nanda Mathur are the designers and stylist for the calendar, Kapil Bhalla has done the make- up and Bianca Hartkopf is the hair stylist for the models gracing the calendar.
The tenth edition of the Kingfisher Calendar, a concept launched by India’s answer to Brit tycoon Richard Branson, Vijay Mallya, is ready to be unveiled.