We are ecstatic to share that Aliens Tattoo in Mumbai was recently graced by the presence of Arjun Kapoor, a name synonymous in the Bollywood industry with box-office hits like Ishaqzaade, 2 States and Gunday, among several others.
Arjun already has an impressive ink collection that speaks of his personal stories and milestones, all of which have defined him as a person. Wanting to add to that collection, we were overjoyed when we heard from him that ace cricketer Virat Kohli had recommended Aliens Tattoo to Arjun for his latest addition.
Just as his characters on screen evolve and grow, Arjun himself has undergone a significant transformation. He faced a tumultuous period in his life 3-4 years prior, where everything seemed to be in disarray, marked by personal struggles and difficulties.
It was a time of intense challenges, where each day brought its own set of hardships, making it particularly strenuous and taxing. But one fine day, he recognized that his journey was not just about proving his worth to others, but about affirming his own self-worth. It was about finding inner peace, resilience, and the courage to face life's challenges head-on. Those facing personal challenges or overcoming obstacles often identify with the phoenix, seeing their own struggles and subsequent recoveries reflected in its myth. Just like a phoenix rises from the ashes, Arjun rose above his adversities.
Hence, it was decided that a phoenix tattoo design would be the perfect design fit.
Founder and CEO of Aliens Tattoo Sunny Bhanushali worked tirelessly on the design himself. He took great care to ensure that every part of the design was carefully considered and delicately done knowing the significance of the tattoo for Arjun.
The phoenix is a legendary bird known for rising from the ashes and is a moving metaphor for his life's journey. In numerous cultures, it is a revered emblem of triumph over adversity, a concept that deeply resonates with him.
The phoenix tattoo design was specifically crafted to be deeply layered, reflecting the complexity of his personal journey. This design, rich in texture and detail, effectively captures the essence of his story through complex and deliberate artistry. These tiny lines and dots are like moments in his life, each one essential, yet often overlooked in the grand scheme of things. Alone, it might seem inconsequential, but when joined with countless others, it contributes to the creation of something beautiful, something meaningful.
Arjun walked through the doors of our studio in Mumbai and there was a noticeable excitement in the air. He had no airs about him whatsoever and was dressed in casual clothes yet still looked incredibly suave. After some initial pleasantries with everyone in our team, he gradually got comfortable and it felt like being in the company of an old friend, rather than a celebrity.
Arjun was an open book, discussing everything under the sun; from fitness, the pressures of being a celebrity to his personal life, he disclosed everything in much detail. His humble demeanor was a breath of fresh air for everyone, there was never a dull moment or awkward silence in his presence. After some last minute changes with the help of our senior designer Sameer Kureshi and placing the stencil, the tattooing process began in full swing.
Sakshi Panwar, an award-winning tattoo artist celebrated for her mastery in fine line and dotwork, inked the resplendent phoenix on Arjun’s calf. The detailed feathers of the phoenix were stippled with great care, adding a rich interplay of texture and depth. The phoenix design, a masterpiece of fine lines and dotwork, spreads its wings majestically while under it the word "Rise" is elegantly inscribed, serving as a powerful mantra for Arjun.
Seven hours flew by and there it was - Arjun Kapoor's magnificent Phoenix tattoo, finally complete. As he gazed at the stunning artwork, a look of awe spread across his face.
Throughout the session, he was the life of the studio, filling the air with laughter. His stories, peppered with humour, turned what could have been a gruelling session into a day filled with unforgettable moments and hearty belly laughs.
In the vibrant, often surreal world of Bollywood, where reality and fantasy intertwine, Arjun’s tattoo grounds us in a truth often overlooked: the industry's glitz and glamour mask real stories of human endurance and vulnerability. His phoenix bird tattoo is a visual representation of this truth, a bridge between the reel and the real, reminding us of the resilience and humanity that lies at the heart of every celebrity's journey.
As he carves his unique path in the industry, he reminds us that at the heart of every celebrity is a human story of struggle and triumph. We feel immensely privileged to have had the opportunity to ink Arjun's story and be a part of his journey in such a meaningful way.