Sunday 16 August 2015

Of Beauty, Background & Eastern Belonging



Beauty is in more than just the EYE of the beholder … it is in the very SOUL. Without it, soulfulness, that is, things are just things -- no shape, context or meaning. And I LOVE beauty & beautiful things to the depths of my soul. If that sounds shockingly materialistic or shamefully shallow, well how’s this, I make no apology for it either! 


Tonnes of tuberose & jasmine Gajra (flower garlands) 
& their necklace twin below.
   

Cotton/silk materials used for
OneRoseOneRuby necklaces, emulate flower leis.

To have a discerning eye, a discriminating taste, an appreciative appetite for beauty (AND, by default, the artist, artisan, crafter, atelier who’s beautiful thoughts germinated into a tangible creation that so captured you) ... is, in my opinion, not necessarily a bad thing. The secret is in the economy of choosing & the reasons behind the choice. Everyone’s desires, motivations & ‘money-bags’ are different, of course, but the finding, filtering, flirting & fascination with objects of beauty are part of the dance of life, & sometimes even, the letting go of the need to HAVE them. (I’ve not ENTIRELY reached that stage yet!)


Hand-crafted choker of 24Kt (mesh) gold.
A (maha)Rani family heirloom.


Bangles to bequeath, betroth & 
bedazzle the subcontinental lady.


Sensually, transparent net-sarees with delicate Chikankari embroidery ... to be transformed for my shop!

I, for one, am a person highly sensitive to my surroundings. A bare wall & a beige sofa are an ‘emergency surgery’ situation in my home. I’m also the individual who buys ‘travel candles’ & lights incense in the loo, for, you know, devotion … to the dunny goddess! From the tenderest age (in my homeland of India), I have witnessed colourfully colossal din-dins to the deities, fulgent fashions fit for a feathered monarch, high-octane, fragrant festivities, the likes of which only the Gods can fully digest, & homes festooned with truck-loads of tinsel, that TALKED! All of this has saturated my inner-world with an intense light & vivacious pulse -- the volume & velocity of which are always on MAX.


Tinsel ... of the 'vocal' variety!
(Old Delhi -- Chandni Chowk market)


Colourful crescent moons at the Muslim 
marriage registry (Kolkata)

As a consequence, I simply can’t live without the warmth & glow of colours in my home that recreate the dazzling sunset over the Yamuna river, nor the contrasting sheen & coolness of exquisite alloys against my skin, echoing full-moon nights, collecting water from a well. I always ‘hear’ bracelets, ‘smell’ sandalwood & ‘taste’ rose-water in my creations -- for they are the essence of the Orient ... & the bed-time story of my youth.


'Teratali', tribal dancer -- 
the embodiment of extravagance
colour & cultural connectedness
(Ranakpur, Rajasthan)


 Pink, orange, purple & green
Agra, a river & a row-boat.

My 'OneRoseOneRuby' shop pieces are a living, breathing tribute to this heritage. Every fabric, sari, trim, filigree-design, sumptuous stone & swinging pendant is a sonorous song to the past, present & future of my creative life -- afforded to me by ‘accident’ of birth & the ‘provision’ of certain artistic leanings. These memories & personal accessories; hand-crafted, designed & created by me, bring me enormous comfort … & much more, they bring me (& hopefully others) immense joy & pleasure.


'OneRoseOneRuby' textiles, trinkets, tassels, trim ...
= my treasure & my toil

Pleasure, for me, is the ultimate reward for a life well 'spent' ... AND intentioned. In my case, this has been studying history, commerce & art, independent travel, living abroad (both in Europe & Asia) … and seeking & ‘speaking’ beauty wherever I go. Yes, for me, beautiful things need to speak. They need to teleport, translate in all tongues & transmit endearing energies. They need to remind me of certain events & emotions -- hold strong memory connections of some ONE, some PLACE, some TIME; a thoughtful, well-made gift from a lover, a congratulatory gift to self, one's first pay-check purchase, that dream-trip to Tangiers ... each offering a story of our likes, loves, tastes, traits & interactions.


Cairo's carpets. 
A middle-eastern melange & magical remembrance.


Antique Ottoman oil lamps. Turkey's got taste ... & talent!

There needs to be ALL of this, coupled with croon-worthy craftsmanship & a sharp sense of history, for a thing to have ‘value’ for me. In my world, you see, ‘things’ are not just functional ... they are EXPERIENTIAL, often emblematic & almost always edifying.


Mud-brick paintings & 
primitive places (Shilpgram, Udaipur)


A medieval marvel ... 
Kalna, terracotta temple carving.

I don't want to get to the end of my days with a storage-unit filled with meaningless fandangles that were de rigueur for a hot-minute. No, I want to own things, make things, gift, see & share things that stand the test of time ... that turn heads, start dialogues, warm hearts. I want my life & my painted tomb to say (like Tutankhamun himself) … I was here … I lived ardently, expansively … & I liked a bit of the good stuff! Xx



Thank you for making space in your day to read my post 
PLEASE JOIN ME ON IG or TWITTER  
**************************************************
#This post seeks to articulate the 'SOUL' of OneRoseOneRuby & appears as a link on my website, under that tab/title.
#You can read about my jewelry process & dedication to the craft 'HERE' or ... 'RETURN TO MY SHOP'
#All Writing & #Photos by Rani.C (Char)

72 comments:

  1. Rani who could not love the amazing things you share. These photos and your writing are magical.
    You really take us with you and I feel like I have traveled to India by your words.
    Love your treasures and gorgeous soul.

    You should be in movies btw.That stunning face and crown of jewels!.
    So much Love
    Ange xxxx

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  2. I giggle at your funny expressions Rani and admire your many talents. Enjoyed this eastern tale,really shows who you are and the love you have for your culture. The colourful images and passion in your words is so inspiring. Thanks for sharing all this beauty and positive energy. You are such a gorgeous exotic queen and very caring soul xx Carlina {Tried to join this blog but couldn't so I thought try and post anyway as it's always nice to revisityour fabulous palace}

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  3. Thank you sincerely sweet divinities for your kind & generous comments. Means much to have you visit my Palace and leave some of your heart-warming sparkle behind! :) Your loveliness is honored & immortalised now.

    Sorry about the 'robo-tron' & trouble with subscribing ..it really is a pain on certain days. Huge thanks & kudos to you for making the effort. Sending love & shimmering hugs to you ladies Xx

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  4. Princess C you are so eloquent, intelligent and waaaay beautiful.
    Thank you for filling my world with laughter, beauty and such wonderful, colourful stories. Feel lucky to have you as my friend. Keep shining and sharing your exciting, soulful posts
    Big kisses
    S.O.D

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  5. Bless & shimmies & blushy-cheek emojis!
    Thank you Maggie.B (s.o.d) :)
    Cherish this .... Always Xx

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  6. Oww you are so much pretty and I happy to find your blog and wonderful shop. I love all the things Indja and want to

    visit one day. The colors and design you make are beautiful.. I want to buy one of this gorgeous piece.

    Best to you, Natsya from Ukraine

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    1. Thrilled to have a Palace guest all the way from the Ukraine!!
      Thank you Natsya ... that's a really pretty name :)
      I hope you get to experience the wonder of India soon ... & in the interim, continue to enjoy my small offerings.

      Warmest regards
      Rani.Cee Xx

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  7. It has been way to long since roaming the palace halls…..How I have missed the visits. I am in awe of the beauty, colour and love that these walls adorn.
    Thank you for sharing… your words go straight to the heart.
    Xo Benita

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  8. Omgosh love everything!
    LOOK AT YOU Miss Maharani you never bloody age. Model looks and brains too. You've done even more amazing things since leavng 'the box'. Well done!!!!!!!! Always were so creative and still making everyone smile I can see. Just brilliant.

    I wish you all the success in the world, sorry it took so long to connect. Hugs to you honey
    Tracy (Peanut) xoxoxoxo

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    Replies
    1. Couldn't be more delighted!!
      You have been missed zany lady ... & I am trying hard to contain my bubbles of excitement this early on a Sunday morning :) Thanks for these beautiful, encouraging words.

      Hush now, anytime is a good time to reconnect! You have put the biggest smile on my dial P.
      Pouring buckets of love
      Princess Cashew Xx

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  9. Ummmm stunner! Frickin love this photo of you gorgeous girl not to mention your epic words
    All the sparkle in your shop, your writing, photos, creations, you are one awesomely talented woman Rani. You amaze me with your gifts.
    Hugs .. Annie xxx

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    1. Thank you a million presh!
      I should say, above is a photo of a photo ... flattens & conceals MANY flaws. Believe you me!!
      So lovely of you to stop by Xx

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  10. What a fantastic read. Your blog/shop is spectacular, the colors and details are simply stunning (as are you I might add!)
    Have come here via twitter and glad to follow, make a connection. I love your earrings in particular, they are super gorgeous.

    Noelia

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    1. So happy you like my gems & even lovelier of you to say so!
      Thanks for the interest & follow Noelia. Wonderful to connect with you

      Warm cheers & shimmies
      Rani.Cee Xx

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  11. Mitch.G -
    Well those eyes are without doubt Indian !! Girl, you're a dazzling, natural beauty and it's so nice to Cee you - see what I did there?

    Extraordinary beauty in all that you do sweet Rani. Floored as always by your creative genius and soulful words.

    Gorgeous, stunning, beautiful xx

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    1. Hehe I Cee what you did! :)
      You are everything kind Mitch. Most thankful for this

      Mwahs & Canoodles Xx

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  12. It is a pleasure looking at these bright happy images and reading your stories. Really fabulous writing, great feeling in it.Takes me back to my time living in India, I miss it a lot.
    Enjoy your blog and think you are very charming, also very, very beautiful. Darvin xxxxxx

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    1. The pleasure is all mine!
      Sincere thanks for your lovely comments here & elsewhere Darvin.
      You clearly have a strong connection and appreciation for the Subcontinent and all it's faithful 'subjects'.

      Kindly
      Rani.Cee Xx

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  13. Wow .. loved this amazing, personal tribute to an incredible country. India is my favorite! Your textiles and the combination of colors, textures etc. blow me away. Excellent work all round. I don't think I've come across a more colorful space. You seem very sharp, insightful and friendly .. Oh and truly gorgeous!
    Kind wishes
    Narz

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    Replies
    1. That is high praise indeed! Thank you so much :)
      You seem very warm and engaging yourself! I appreciate your keen interest Narz.
      A fellow Indophile is always welcome here.

      Rani.Cee Xx

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  14. Great chatting with you today spunky girl - god that photo above! You are so exquisite! Well finally taking the full palace walk and gotta say you have produced a work of astounding beauty. Not that I surprised. I can't choose from all the sparkly treasures , loveeee them all but do have eyes for one of your gorgeous necklaces. So clever and creative. I know you will sell heaps darling and continue shining like the bright star you are. Loved reading this so much. I mean, your talent is ridiculous. Sending you a big kiss.

    x I don't do bookface these days but happy to chat whenever x

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    1. Don't blame you! Face-to-face is so much nicer.
      Thank you to the moon Chelle. Means more than you could ever know Xx





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  15. Beautifully written blog and even more beautiful shop. Everything is so gawjus, includingthe 'selfie' behind it. Loved that page! What a captivating beauty you are Rani. it sounds like you've had some fabulous experiences. We hope to travel to your motherland some day and I'm already saving for one of these unique treasures. XX Marion [Friend of Angela]

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    1. Just read some more of your blog and I have to say, LOVE, LOVE your writing and humor. Takes my breath away. Such a gifted lady and the photography totally transports me. Thank you for sharing your exotic tales
      XX Marion

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    2. Lovely to 'meet' you Marion! So nice of you to visit my Palace.
      Am very touched by your generosity and enthusiasm.
      I imagine any friend of Angela's would have such spirit!!

      Sincere thanks
      Rani.Cee Xx

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  16. Had to wander around the palace again and soak up your creative spark, amazing style and gorgeousness Rani - - gosh you're a looker! Your words and accessories are all so devine!

    I agree its about quality not quantity and living large. Except you put it so much more elegantly. You yourself are elegant and your world is filled with beauty and truth and it rubs off in the best way. Lots of love to the princess. Amanda

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    1. Grateful for the introduction, thrilled to be of service Miss Amanda!
      Thanks so much for this. Most wonderful of you.

      Sending you a few Canoodles Xx

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  17. Aaaah
    Sensational writing, witty and imaginative: 'devotion to the dunny' Bahaha! You have massive depth and 'soul' Rani. I see why you have called it that. Thoroughly enjoyable post. .
    Congratulations too on a very fine shop. It is easy to spot the inspiration, coming from such an enchanting, beautiful creator.
    All the best xxx Julian

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    1. Flattered. Thanks Julian!
      History, colour lovers united ... it would seem!!
      Chuffed that you took the 'Walk'. Appreciate your words.


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  18. Rani I couild spend many hours looking at your fantastic photos. Also, can I just take this time to appreciate that gorgeous face!!! Wowee.You always look so glowy and youthful! Well done beauty. You are a fab person and a whiz OX Pen

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    Replies
    1. Now that I know which Pen I'm replying to ... I need to say Yay, merrily yay!!
      Huge thanks for checking out the new site & leaving your wonderfully kind comments.

      All my love & shiny things
      C Xx

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  19. Love your artistry. You are so, so freaking beautiful and gifted.
    Blessings, Shilpa x

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    Replies
    1. Oh my, how sweet!
      Thank you for your blessings Shilpa!!
      I humbly receive them.

      Warm wishes
      Rani.Cee Xx

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  20. Yeppeo. Love all beautiful things and cool for share. Please come again for hair cutt miss Rani you are so nice and funny and more pretty. We like you.
    From Soon-Ki

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    Replies
    1. Thank you Soon Ki. So very kind of you.
      Perhaps I'll visit for a treatment ... to soften my locks!!
      Lovely of you to come visit my page and leave a comment.
      Hope you have a wonderful day.

      Sincerely
      Rani.Cee Xx

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  21. The prettiest doll face Rani C (dig that!) and I love your stuff. Amazing work, you should be very proud.
    Public holidays are good days to catch up. The deli gang x

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    1. Ugh,I'm a bit late. Apologies!
      Your deli, or is it Delhi??? ...is the best.
      Thank you, Thank you guys!! So surprised by this & happy too Xx

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  22. Very nice maam. I like your story and writing. J.Sharma

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    1. Thanks so much for visiting.
      Heartened by your encouragement!

      Sincerely
      Rani.Cee Xx

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  23. When I read your works I get teary. They are so powerful and filled with love Mrs C. I'm all lost for words.
    Thanks forsharing your link so'z I could at last check out the wonders. What a feast for the eyes and all from that amazing mind you have! Congratulations. The site and your exotic beauty are unforgetable
    X Crez

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    1. Now this is the best gift of all!
      How lovely to see you here 'Crezzy' lady.
      SO sorry for the delay, but so thrilled that you have taken the time to visit my palace. Huge grin here, much to say. I will message you.
      Thanks for these utterly charming words & sentiments Xx

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  24. Awesome yar
    Love your story and you are so very pretty

    Bhumi xx

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    1. Very kind of you Bhumi!
      Thank you for reading my story. Glad you enjoyed it.

      Warm wishes
      Rani.Cee Xx

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  25. Promised myself I would enjoy a summer of reading your magical posts. And so far I'm loving everything. You are a fabulous talent Rani and seriously dead-set gorgeous woman phwoaaar ! This blog and your treasures are stunning. Fran xx

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    1. Luvya lady!
      Such a privilege to 'spend' some of the summer with you.
      Thank you for your time & these very kind words Xx

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  26. Great job Rani. You can put into words what we only dream. The awesomeness of India comes to life with you. Have to say again, you are brill woman! And how impossibly beautiful you look. Just natural beauty. ...R.J

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    1. Cheers to you Roland for your comments here & on my other posts.
      It is a welcome surprise!! I'm delighted you have enjoyed time at the Palace. I really appreciate it Xx

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  27. Love this! I saw one of your gorgeous cushions on pinterest and shared to my board. Dying to go to India and learn more about this fascinating country. I'm a huge bollywood fan tooa, you totally look like one of the gorgeous stars.
    Indian and Middle-Eastern women have good genes. So beautiful!
    Ta
    Eileen xxx

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    1. Nice to meet you Eileen & thank you so much for visiting & sharing my work.
      You don't know how much that means to a gal like me!
      I do hope your travel-dreams come to pass & you get to witness, or more so, experience first-hand the exuberance & wonder of India.
      Oh yes, Bollywood is larger than life & full of bouncy babes ...
      but you are too generous in your compliment!

      My warmest wishes
      Rani.Cee Xx

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  28. Soulful or what. And this is you? How beautiful you are. Absolutely! Just had a nosy in your shop and hugely impressed. Those filigree earrings, awesome-sauce !! saving up for a pair and your textiles are making me swoon. - Margrite

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  29. Er may'goodness stunning beauty lady. Like yo light


    x x Kareem x

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  30. So much beauty and nice to see the face behind all this. You are exquisite- I love your exotic features.

    Not often I follow a tweet and end up on such a colorful page. This blog is wonderful

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  31. You are so incredibly divinely beautiful to look at, with innate wisdom and humanity. You will always be an artist through and through Rani. This made me especially weepy and speaks to me. India really does make beautiful people. Bec
    [Just commented on your other post. Too beautiful. All of it]

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  32. What an amazing read!
    And a rare glimpse of you!! How are you such a beauty woman? Have always been jealous of your smooth complexionh. You should get in front of the camera more often. I mean, seriously gorgeous but always a very modest lady. Thanks for brightening up my Sunday, your shop is to die for
    Love, Nola

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  33. You certainly are a ravishing Indian beauty / u look a bit Spanish or a mix of something. I love the way you write and have to see your shop pronto

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  34. Mashallah! Lovely stuff and I support beautiful things also.
    You are breathtakingly beautiful Rani. Nice to meet xxx Fatima

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  35. Makes sense. Your fine!! Very striking face n talented too
    Hamresh xxxx

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  36. This is amazing and you are extremely pretty.
    Love it all. Stacey xx

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  37. I never knew you had a blog! Man, where have I been? lol
    Incredible work missy and don't you have the most beautiful face? Love!
    Nice to see a pic of you actually and with your hair out. Lucky u can wear your hair any bloody way, updo, short and still be stunning!!!!

    Look forward to reading more and oggling the treasures. You are just amazing
    Hugs
    Catherine

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  38. Love the personal history. Yiour jewels are exquisite and so unique.
    Fabulous photos ./ oh and you are simply gorge

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  39. Incroyable' Your products is nearly as alluring as you. I am very charmed by your eastern beauty and beautiful personality. Keep up the amazing work Rani. It is a pleasure to the eyes.
    Thierry

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  40. Incredibly beautiful, creative and soulful lady.
    The full package. Congratulations! Rosalee XXX

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  41. Wow, you are sensational looking and a huge talent Rani.C Love your inspiring, colorful work and cool posts

    Glad I visited
    Keysan x

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  42. omgosh you have absolutely gorgeous mysterious beauty girl and your website is superb!!! I would love to own one of your exotic creations especially love the jewlery, so so beautiful and divine like you. And don't get me started about your adorable, witty personality.
    Very happy we crossed paths Rani. I always look forward to seeing and hearing what you say. It is always kind and inspiring. Love and peace. Anna

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  43. Strikingly beautiful and talented woman.
    Your so imaginative and fascinating.
    Thanks bunches for sharing your vibrant work with us xxxxx Madolegne

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  44. WOw what a post! Every word is joyful and I really love your philosophy of life Gorgeous shop, ah those colors make me happy

    You are stunning by the way xx Nadia

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  45. This is excellent <>:):)<>
    You are the most inspiring, cheerful, highly gifted person and I get lost in your words and photos. All amazingly beautiful .and omg I'm so envious of your gorgeous exotic face. Whoaa girl !!! Love, love, love everything. So much goodness and talents my ausie indian friend
    - Hugs from Rafael

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  46. Picking my jaw up off the ground, WOW, flawless! Don't hide such beauty _ THAT crown photo is perfection C. Incredible writing, creations and what a beautiful personality xxxx John

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  47. You are very sweet and stunning beauty lady. Happy to meet :)
    Come again my country. Shiraz love you!

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  48. I loveee your blog, the photos and stories and wooow your absolutely gorgeous. Lucky woman

    Casandra xxccxx

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  49. Wonderful princess Rani Char! So brilliant and goddamn stunning you are ..
    All my olove, Lora xxx

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#Thanks for bringing some extra sparkle & cheer to the Palace today. I'm delighted to read your comments (& Shimmying too!!!)