Movember reigns

It's that time of the year when men are sporting the macho look and flaunting beards. Think no further, 'Movember' or 'No Shave November' is here and men in the city have their best unshaven look on in  support of a cause.

It was in 2003 that two brothers in Australia decided to flaunt their moustaches and the following year, one of them who is also the  co-founder of 'Movember', made it a symbol in support of prostate cancer. This is how the movement started.

Many men registered on the official website and showcased their clean-shaved faces transforming into lengthy beards and moustaches.  

Many are supporting 'Movember' while not being aware of the cause. Yet others are sporting elaborate beards as they believe that "most Indian men sport moustaches anyway".

Aviraj  Satyam, an MBA student,  a first-timer supporting the movement, says, "I understand the bigger cause behind the  movement now. When we rest our razors and pause our visits to the  salon during this month,  it is a way to save
the money and help those who are suffering with certain health problems," he adds.  

Syed Sajjad, an engineering student with  New Horizon College of Engineering, says that 'Movember' is not just about showing off one's beard but understanding the larger concept.

"For me, the concept is so important that even if I get any modelling assignments during this month, I stick by  the cause and do not shave," he says.

He adds that  more awareness campaigns need  to be conducted to create awareness on men's health issues.

Be it a stubble or a full-grown beard, beards are a good way of expressing solidarity in style, believes model Rohit Lohmod.

"I sported a beard because it went with my style. But when I read about 'No Shave November', I took it more seriously.  While I respect women's issues, it's time men's issues are also taken seriously. I am excited to be part of a movement that can help bring these issues to the forefront," he says.    

Actor and model Gaurav Gupta has always loved the bearded look.

"But, I am sporting a  beard  specifically for this month as the cause is dear to me. There are many men who silently suffer with  health issues like cancer and depression and this movement is a silent symbol of the same," he says. Gaurav adds that apart from posting bearded photographs online, one needs to be broad-minded to talk about men's health issues.

"Often men shy away from talking about these ailments or depression and this is a strong way of supporting the cause," he says.  

Sporting a beard has moved beyond a fad and is more about making a statement now and there are groups in the city who have taken up the cause.

Vishal Singh, founder of the 'Bangalore Beard Club' excitedly shares, "We are hosting a 'Beardo-Thon' at Cubbon Park on November 19 and a 'Beard and Moustache Competition' on November 26 at the UB City. Fun pop-up events at different restaurant and bars to create awareness about cancer and men's health will also be hosted."

He hopes that such events will create opportunities for more interactions.
"They also act as a great platform to discuss  topics like grooming and lifestyle habits openly and connect with people from all walks of life," he adds.  

And we go, All for beard, beard for all!