T IN(K)clination

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WHAT DECIDES YOUR PROFESSION IS THE ABILITY AND PASSION YOU HOLD AND NOT WHAT SOCIETY OR PEOPLE THINK OF YOUR CAPABILITIES GOING AGAINST THE SOCIETY CAN BE A DAUNTING TASK BUT THIS YOUNG ARTIST STRONGLY BELIEVED “SUNO SABKI, KARO MANN KI!”

he is the first female tattoo artist in the entire state of Madhya Pradesh. We introduce Annu Rathore; the artist who went

against

the norms laid down by society, and created her niche in the industry mainly dominated by men. Her creative studio,

The Annu’s Tattoo & Academy, is located at LG Centre Mall, opposite Chappan Dukan, New Palasia. Her clientele includes

some very renowned people and they vouch for her creativity and confidence.

Anqu started her journey way back in 2009; after the initial two years of struggle she found her foothold in the industry by 2011. Like all the rebels, Annu faced a lot of opposition from her family, and especially from her father, who did not support her unconventional choice of profession. But she remained adamant and her father finally had to give in to her determination. Anne went to Mumbai to pursue a professional course, and that added to her creative abilities,

Annu used to work with someone in the start but now owns a studio of her own. Today she has reached great heights of success and has a flourishing business in a field where women were seldom seen venturing into. Her father is immensely proud of her. Annu started tattooing, when women were never considered to be a part of the industry. However, she was never scared but always confident of her art. She shared few anecdotes which reflect how society adheres to stereotypes. One male fellow artist “advised” her to change her choice from tattooing to nail art. When she showed how stubborn she was about following her dreams, he openly challenged her to be able to place and they used to But Annu has come a Imagination. survive in this industry. She also had people coming to see her work from all over the get tattoos inked by her out of sympathy rather than to appreciate her creative talent. long way. Her detractors served as the force that helped her to excel beyond their

For Annu, inking tattoos is “live art”. She has custom designs depending on various concepts. Impulse is her motivation and her exclusivity lies in the fact that even though her custom designs are unique, she adds her creative spin on any of your own ideas. That is how each tattoo becomes personal and unique for every person.

AFEW SNIPPETS FROM OUR CONVERSATION:

First tattoo: “When I was in Class IX, it was a doll with a violin.”

Favorite Tattoo: “I did one for a mother-daughter duo, it was their life story Inspiration: Kat Von D the female Tattoo artist from Paris inspires me to

enhance my skills further. Biggest Tattoo: “I had inked an SRK fan from Indore; it was a full sleeve tattoo that took 48 hours to complete.”

Clientele: “I have common and well-known people coming to me but you have to be above 18 years old. Clients who are younger need parental approval.” Indore and Tattoo: “Everyone considers tattoos to be stylish and cool. Compared to five years ago, people now are more open to getting inked, either generally or for special occasions. I want to work and get Madhya Pradesh in

the forefront.” Lifestyle: “I live a simple and comfortable life. I don’t adhere to the typical funky appearance otherwise associated with tattoo artists. I do have tattoos on my body, each having their own significance.” Other Interests: “I love eating, being online and catching up with

my friends. Traveling teaches me about different cultures, it

refreshes me and I get inspired to do better.” Message for the People: “If you want to get inked get it for yourself, with your own idea that reflects your personality and lifestyle. And FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS!”