Actor Ranveer Singh shows up to support his favourite mane man’s newly launched ‘D Barbershop’ salon. A far-fetched gesture that according to Darshan Yewalekar is a “dream come true.”
Darshan Yewalekar, the celebrated hair designer, realised his long cherished dream on 20th March 2023. His distinct style statements in films like ’83’, ‘Laal Kaptaan’, ‘Padmaavat’ and many more have earned him recognition. Superstar Ranveer Singh shows support for the man behind his iconic looks, at the newly launched ‘D Barbershop‘ in Mumbai.
Says Darshan, “Even as an apprentice learning the craft of barbering, I always knew, one day, I would have my own barber shop. I genuinely want to bring Indian barbering to an international level where we can set standards for the rest of the world instead of just following world trends. I want to inspire every young apprentice who is just starting out to dream big. This is why at the barber shop, we will also initiate programs to develop skills and organise seminars, and workshops to guide them. We would also want them to give a proper understanding of infrastructure, industry protocols, and hygiene standards.”
His ultimate goal is to streamline the structure to learn barbering, train young people and make them industry ready. And also, at the same time give them the dignity and the recognition they deserve. Adds Darshan, “I genuinely want to be known as a master of my art and I want to also extend whatever I learn to those who are on the same journey. So be it cutting, colouring, extensions, the business aspect of following your passion, running a store, I want to perfect it all and then help others to do the same.”
According to Darshan, ‘D Barbershop’ is the perfect blend of old-school craft and new-age technology. From a 100-year-old Japanese company’s ergonomic chairs to a hair vacuum that cleans with minimal human intervention. The barber shop has it all and is gender and age inclusive. They also have separate sections for colouring, pedicures, and tried and tested treatments to nourish the scalp and hair. He adds, “I also want to clarify that barbering is a gender-neutral term and I want to break the myth that girls cannot frequent a place that calls itself, ‘D Barbershop.”Everyone and anyone is welcome to come in and will be taken care of with equal love and attention by us.”
Darshan is also working along with art galleries to source art that he will shuffle every few weeks. He says, “I am doing this because I believe my profession is very artistic, and showcasing art will also inspire us at the barber shop. We are also sourcing healthy snacks, detox juices, and booster drinks. So we are focused not just on hair but on creating a community that prioritises overall wellness so that when people walk out with a great haircut, they also feel great. They should feel cared for and nurtured at a deep level even though it was just a great hair-cut that they came for.”