HT Brunch Cover Story: Make it like Masaba!

It’s been a year of revelations for fashion designer Masaba Gupta, who recently turned actor, but that’s not the only reinvention she’s embraced

The last time I met Masaba Gupta was three years ago for an HT Brunch interview. Known for her candour, she had spoken with brutal honesty about growing up as a child born out of wedlock and facing bullying and bodyshaming from a very early age. But there were strict instructions to not ask any questions about her impending divorce from her then-husband of four years, producer Madhu Mantena.

Designer and actor Masaba Gupta says, “I am not going to take advice from anyone anymore, especially related to love and relationships. I want to be the master of my own mistakes!”; Styled by Dolla Baruah; Assistant stylists: Kareena Mishra & Komal Mulgaonkar; Make-up by Saba Shafique Khan; Hair by Deepa Jitendra Bambhaniya (The House of Pixels)

Masaba says, “I have realised my worth, and I have discovered that I am a survivor. I am like a cockroach”; Corset by Yash Patil; Jeans by Huemn; Necklace by Viange; Rings by Zohra; Nails by Nail Sutra (The House of Pixels)

Masaba with her Masaba Masaba co-star Amariah Awantaye

Masaba on her business, personal and professional

Masaba says, “More than romance, a relationship is about companionship, friendship and being able to communicate without filters... I wish I had had this clarity in my 20s”; Outfit and shoes by Gucci; Jewellery by Tribe By Amrapali & Amama Jewels; Nails by Nail Couture by Janvi Matta (The House of Pixels)

Masaba with Ritwick Bhowmick in Modern Love Mumbai

“My mom always points out that I forget pain very easily and move on,” says Masaba about mum, Neena Gupta

“My dad [Vivian Richards] taught me that no matter where you come from, it doesn’t stop you from going where you need to,” reveals Masaba

A look at Masaba’s career

Masaba says, “Whatever you go through in your childhood comes out in your adult life in some shape or form. It is a constant work in progress.” (The House of Pixels)