It is rare to find a home that so effortlessly and accurately represents the personality of its owner. You take one look inside Asif Ali Beg's home, and it instantly welcomes you in with its warmth, just like Beg himself!
Beg is a theatre personality, film and television actor, and voice artist. He voiced the character of Edna "E" Mode in 'The Incredibles' when it was dubbed in Hindi. More than just a bachelor pad, it's an artist's pad, as is evident by the countless books, movie posters and collectables in this cosy home in Parla, Mumbai.
For Beg, his craft is his passion, and his passion is his craft. Every inch of his living area is covered in things that remind him and inspire him for this craft. Posters, books, collectables, toys adorn the wall alongside the several awards and trophies he's received for his exemplary work.
Beg's home is in Parla, Mumbai and can be best described as 'micro living'. The entire home is a multi-purpose single room, divided into different sections. Even though the house may be considered small, Beg has done an amazing job of maximising the limited space in each area and adding his personal touches, so that the home looks warm and inviting. Beg has even painted some of the furniture himself!
Beg's home is unique in today's times. With one single room divided into sections and high ceilings, it is rare to find such architecture in Mumbai's more modern buildings. The foyer-like area right at the entrance, next to a huge window, ensures that the room is well lit during the day. One can imagine sitting here on a rainy day, sipping a cup of coffee and reading a book! The right wall of the foyer connects to the kitchen, which is small and efficient.
The house is the perfect example of efficiency. The left wall of the kitchen serves as Beg's office area, and on the right is the living room, entertainment centre, library all rolled into one. The living room has a sofa that folds out into a double bed, and voila! It becomes the bedroom too.
Beg has made his house into an oasis, away from the sights and relentless sounds of the big city. Surrounded by so much greenery, it is easy to forget that he lives in one of its busiest areas of Mumbai.
Call it modest living, minimalism or micro living, Beg's home shows us what contentment looks like. He is truly content and is proud of his sacred space. The idea is not to have a big house and fill it with unnecessary things, but to have a small space with everything that one finds meaningful, beautiful and important. A one-room home should not be equated with a lack of material comfort. The space is so well-organised that it provides a sense of being home without compromising on the facilities that make a house a home. Beg and his home complement each other perfectly!
This Photo Essay was made exclusively for Housing.com for their campaign 'Houses of India'.
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