India clearly a big market: Paris-based shoemaker
New Delhi, May 11: Master shoemaker Jean Michel Casalonga of the brand Berluti Paris, which has made its India debut, says the country is a big market for them as the consumers have become more playful in terms of dressing up and they are looking for something that is not just comfortable but also light.
"Berluti, with is long presence in Britain and Singapore, has very loyal Indian customers, who are all of them very exciting for us about this new adventure. They all agree to say that we arrived at the right time, ready to bring our products. India is clearly a big market," Casalonga said.
"The consumers are looking for more and more comfort, softness and lightness. Our customers are travelling a lot and want to be comfortable in their shoes. In the same time, people dress less formally and became playful," he added.
Casalonga, a self-proclaimed 'shoe addict' with over 50 pairs in his closet, joined Berluti as an intern at age 23. Before walking away with the prized apprenticeship at Berluti, Casalonga was studying for an Advanced Degree in Physics when he decided to switch career paths and become a shoemaker.
He dropped out of school and spent five years learning approximately 250 precise steps needed to make a single pair of the finest shoes at Berluti, eventually becoming the house's youngest maître bottier or Master Shoemaker in 2008 when he was only 30 years old.
On the evolution of shoe fetish, he said: "When I started 16 years ago, there were only a few shoemakers in the world. Since a couple of years, we can see daily new independent and talented shoemakers who launch new models. This is extremely encouraging and stimulating. That pushes us to be up to date and stay on the top."
So what all offerings does the brand have for the Indian market ?
"We are offering a selection of ready to walk, ready to wear, small leather goods and leather goods, but we are not ready yet for bespoke which requires the presence of the shoemaker in India. The staff is too small today to be ready for this challenge, but we offer the special order with which we can satisfy most of the demand," he said.
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New Mangaluru Port welcomes Seven Seas Voyager, Second Cruise Ship of the season
Mangaluru (Karnataka), Dec 27: The New Mangaluru Port Authority (NMPA) on Friday, welcomed the Bahamian luxury cruise ship Seven Seas Voyager, marking another milestone in its journey as a premier global cruise tourism destination.
Operated by the Norwegian Cruise Line, Seven Seas Voyager docked at the port at 6:30 AM and departed at 5:30 PM, officials said.
According to a statement by NMPA, the ship carried 650 passengers and 450 crew members. Measuring 206.5 meters in length and boasting a gross registered tonnage (GRT) of 42,363. The vessel is sailing the Arabian Sea on an itinerary that includes stops at Fujairah, Mumbai, Goa, New Mangaluru, and Cochin before reaching Colombo.
Passengers were accorded a traditional Indian welcome, with local cultural troupes performing classical and folk dances to set the tone for an immersive experience of Karnataka's rich heritage.
The port's reception area was adorned with traditional decorations, creating a vibrant atmosphere reflective of the region's hospitality.
"To enhance their visit, guided tours were arranged to some of Karnataka's most iconic attractions. The Gomateshwara Temple in Karkala, featuring a 42-foot monolithic statue of Bahubali, an important Jain heritage landmark," it stated.
Visitors also explored the Thousand Pillar Temple in Moodbidri, an architectural marvel showcasing intricate carvings and reflecting the cultural zenith of the region's past.
Another highlight was a visit to Soans Farm, known for its sustainable practices and exotic fruit cultivation, the Kalbhavi Cashew Factory and the Gokarnanatheshwara Temple, travellers also had the opportunity to explore bustling local markets, taking home handcrafted souvenirs and indulging in the region's culinary delights.
"The arrival of the Seven Seas Voyager follows the visit of MS Silver Whisper, which marked the beginning of this year's cruise season at NMPA. With consistent arrivals of luxury cruise liners, the port has emerged as a vital gateway for international tourists exploring coastal Karnataka," it stated.
NMPA proudly welcomes the luxurious Seven Seas Voyager from the Bahamas! With 650 passengers & 450 crew onboard, the ship arrived on 27th Dec at 6:30 AM & departs at 5:30 PM. Another milestone in promoting cruise tourism & hosting world-class voyages! #CruiseTourism pic.twitter.com/dZg0Q2Kd6X
— New Mangalore Port Authority (@NewMngPort) December 27, 2024
