‘From the streets of Andalur to people’s hearts’: How Kisbu, a balloon seller, became popular on the internet

A teenage balloon seller has taken over the internet with her stylish makeover, courtesy of a makeup art from Kerala — Remya Prajul.
Kisbu, a balloon seller from Rajasthan, was originally photographed freelance wedding and travel photographer Arjun Krishnan at the busy Andalur Kavu festival in Kerala’s Kannur.
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“I saw her on a temple street. She was holding balloons and was standing right under the street light, and the overall ambience was also perfect — the temple was crowded, lit, and dusty, too. The moment I saw her, I adjusted my camera settings to photograph her and she happened to look straight at the camera in the third shot — the picture that went viral first. I showed all the pictures to her mother and her, and they were really appreciative,” Arjun recalled.

After the photos went viral on social media, he was contacted Remya who wished to shoot a campaign with Kisbu for her salon, Stylish Ladies Salon and Spa. “The rest is hory. All the pictures went viral, and we all are really happy now,” Arjun, 23, told .

Remya, who has nine years of experience as a makeover art, told that “it was the spark in her eyes that spoke to me when I happened to first see her picture on someone’s WhatsApp status”. “It took me two full days to locate her and seek permission from her family for a makeover. I explained what I intended to do and why. Then I contacted Arjun and asked him to do the makeover shoot too.”

While it took Remya and her the team 2½ hours to complete the makeover, which included makeup and hair, the pre-shoot included a full grooming session including facial, pedicure, manicure, hair spa etc., which took close to five hours, she shared.
Kisbu’s makeover team (Source: Remya Prajul)

In the final look, Kisbu can be seen in a traditional off-white sari, and also in a sleeveless dress. The pictures were clicked Arjun and his friend and photographer Deio Jacob.
Take a look.

Kisbu supports her family of two, her mother and brother. Remya is hopeful the exposure will help Kisbu complete her education. “She doesn’t want to sell balloons; she wants to study,” shared Remya.
Sharing his experience of working with Kisbu, 22-year-old Deio told that it was initially challenging for her to get the expressions right. “But once she was comfortable, I just had to wait for the moment. She looks gorgeous, like a princess.”

Kisbu’s makeover follows that of Mammikka, a village labourer, whose photoshoot for a company took the internet storm last month.

What do you think of these incredible makeovers? 
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