(November 13, 2021) It’s the fusion of Indian craftsmanship and modern designs that make Shwetambari Mody’s fashion label a global name. The New York-based fashion designer is on a mission to preserve Indian crafts by providing a platform for their work to shine in the arena of international style and fashion. This very calling has put her on a global platform where her work is being recognised for being a perfect amalgamation of the East and the West.
Mody, who was always fond of art as a child, decided to translate her passion into a career that has now made her a global entity.
Born and raised in Mumbai, Mody was always interested in doodling. Art and sketching are something that resonated with her and to hone her craft, her parents enrolled her in art classes as a child and soon it became a part of who she was. During her teens, she found her mother to be the biggest influence on her as Mody would often accompany her to Rohit Khosla’s atelier where the pioneer of Indian fashion would drape fabrics on her mother. The sight was a sheer pleasure for this then teenager and she had already fallen in love with fashion. So after completing her schooling at Bombay Scottish School, her dream of pursuing fashion as a career came to fruition as she enrolled herself at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York at the age of 17.
While she learned the tricks of the trade at fashion school, Mody was also keen to enhance her management skills for any business is a perfect amalgamation of both. So her next stop was ESSEC Business School in Paris where she studied MBA in luxury brand management. “During my time in Paris, I fell in love with design craftsmanship and savoir-faire. It reminded me of Indian artisans, or karigars, who still use age-old techniques that have been passed down through generations,” she told Travel Curator in an interview.
After completing her post-graduation, Mody landed a job working on the corporate side of fashion in textile research. But soon she started to miss the creativity and realised that she was ready to launch her brand as it was her true calling. “While big companies are great and they teach you a lot, you get a small section because you’re a cog in the machine. I thought, if I don’t do this now, I’ll never do this. The French talk about savoir-faire and they do an amazing job with it—but us Indians, we have it too. It’s called ‘karigaree’ which means artistry. This artistry is what I wanted to understand better, and how do you convert that into something that’s wearable for every day? So that is how I started this brand; it is a homage to my country and its artists,” she told CRFashion Book.
A global brand
In August 2020, Mody launched her eponymous label and since then has been bringing Indian craftsmanship to New York through her designs. The New York-based brand is a true homage to her homeland with its intricate handiwork embroidery embellishment and vivid prints but with a touch of NYC cool. A fine artist and painter, Mody decided to translate her craft onto fabric and see the magic happen.
Talking about the inspiration behind her venture, this Global Indian told Travel Curator, “I was working in the corporate world before starting Shwetambari and I felt creatively deprived so I would always paint at home. It was one of my resin paintings that acted as the catalyst for me to create the collection. When you pour resin onto the canvas it does its own thing, it’s very organic and it got me thinking about how this could translate into something else I love and that is fabric.”
Mody is keen to bring her Indian influence to the collection so that the world gets to know about Indian craftsmanship. Through her collections, Mody is preserving the traditional Indian fashions by utilising the artisans’ technique in her design while incorporating modern techniques. The rising designer is providing a perfect East-meets-West experience to the global audience by putting Indian designs and artisans on the world map with her collection.
(November 14, 2022) Megha Sudha Reddy can often be spotted in the company of Paris Hilton, Eva Longoria, Elizabeth Hurley, a galaxy of Hollywood stars and the world’s most influential leaders. Her iconic red-carpet appearances on the world stage are just too many. From the Global Gift Gala to the MET Gala, Paris Couture Week and the First Ladies Luncheon — Sudha Reddy has stunned the global audience like no other. But that is only one part of her introduction. Philanthropy forms the other, more important part. “I am an avid connoisseur of art, fashion, and the finer things in life,” smiles Megha Sudha Reddy, the Director of Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Limited MEIL) in an exclusive conversation with Global Indian. [caption id="attachment_31722" align="aligncenter" width="413"] Sudha Reddy at the Met Gala 2021, wearing a Falguni Shane Peacock gown and Chanel stilletos. Photo: ANI[/caption] One of the leading business tycoons of India, a global fashion icon, socialite, philanthropist and globe trotter, Sudha Reddy gets into the distinct roles with such elan that she stuns the world in everything that she does. A brief conversation with her will tell you that Sudha lives life on her own terms. Fashion Icon “My style
One of the leading business tycoons of India, a global fashion icon, socialite, philanthropist and globe trotter, Sudha Reddy gets into the distinct roles with such elan that she stuns the world in everything that she does.
A brief conversation with her will tell you that Sudha lives life on her own terms.
Fashion Icon
“My style is a replica of my personality. It is versatile and unique,” says Sudha Reddy, who was among the few invitees to the prestigious F4D (Fashion 4 Development) Annual First Ladies Luncheon during the 77th session of the UN General Assembly in New York this year. Powerful women from various fields including fashion, politics and business ventures attended the mega event.
The fashion icon was honoured with the Fashion 4 Development Philanthropy Award by New York State Senator Alessandra Biaggi. Previous winners include Charlize Theron, Diane Kruger, Arianna Huffington, Diane Von Furstenberg, Naomi Campbell, Amber Heard, Ellie Goulding and Victoria Beckham.
Leaving a mark in the global fashion circles, the billionaire walked the red carpet at the 2021 Met Gala. She is also the first woman from south India to have been invited by the committee of the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture in 2022.
Showcasing India's artistic heritage
“My sole aim for this trip was to highlight India’s rich artistic heritage. Indian craftsmanship is something that has to be celebrated on the world stage,” says the billionaire who has attended private dinners hosted by some of the most prominent designers, including Christian Dior, Rahul Mishra, Giambattista Valli, Alexandre Vauthier, Armani Privé, Zuhair Murad and Rami al Ali, and Fendi.
She says that engaging in discourse with world’s most influential leaders at all the prestigious events she attended, offered her an opportunity to share her vision with them. “I feel blessed to represent my country on a global stage,” says the fashionista.
Her inspirations ? “Princess Diana and Marilyn Monroe,” says the MEIL director, who was the first guest in the new Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Lucerne, Switzerland, recently, which is a rare honour for an Indian.
Globe-trotting and attending the mega events have enabled Sudha Reddy to expand her horizons and gain exposure. “Most importantly, I have learnt that there is always room for learning more,” says Sudha, who received a personal invite from Paris Hilton, requesting her presence at the launch of her fragrance in Mumbai last month.
When it comes to her work at Megha group of industries, the wife of top industrialist Megha Krishna Reddy and mother of two says that while there have been challenges, it has been a fulfilling journey. “Our focus is to take India’s infrastructural capacity to newer heights, in terms of road and highway infrastructure,” says the company’s director.
Born and brought up in Andhra Pradesh, she credits her husband Krishna Reddy, whom she describes as a great source of learning. “Sheer hard work has ensured that we and our family of 7,000 employees have turned dreams into reality,” says Sudha Reddy.
One of the major ongoing projects of Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Limited (MEIL) is the Zojila Pass tunnel, with which they have created a place for itself by drilling a tunnel in the Himalayan range, the first of its kind in such a geographical zone.
Philanthropy
Making the world a better place is a mission Megha Sudha Reddy has chosen for herself.
“I have witnessed the struggles of the underprivileged communities across India. We all have something to give back to the society and do our bit. I am doing mine,” says Sudha.
Through the Sudha Reddy Foundation, the business tycoon is working tirelessly towards affordable healthcare, accessible education for the underprivileged even as she has taken massive steps in spreading awareness about cancer and other chronic diseases.
“Working for these causes is my mission. It keeps me motivated and drives me to do more for the people,” says the recipient of “Champions of Change” award from the Telangana government. She firmly believes that donating time, money or skills positively impacts lives of many people.
She is actively associated with Action Against Hunger and Poverty, Breast Cancer Research Foundation and Fight Hunger Foundation.
“Anyone who is in a position to give back to society should do their bit,” feels Sudha Reddy, who advocates for equitable medical care and literacy while providing women and children with a forum to have their voices heard.
With kindness and compassion at the centre of her mission, she aims at aiding and uplifting many more lives across the length and breadth of India.
Not only does she work alongside American actress Eva Longaria to raise awareness about children suffering from chronic diseases, Sudha Reddy, she previously collaborated with Elizabeth Hurley to work toward breast cancer awareness.
Fitness freak
Whether she’s working, travelling or attending mega events around the world, the business tycoon makes it a point to devote some time to fitness. She never misses her 90 minute workout schedule, five days a week.
“I also practice yoga and eat in moderation. Regular exercising keeps stress at bay,” smiles Sudha Reddy, who regularly takes to meditation and indulges in various religious activities. “Prayers have healing powers,” is her firm belief.
(December 13, 2023) Designer Geethika Kanumilli’s world collapsed when she was diagnosed with anti-phospholipid syndrome, an irreversible immune system disorder that leads to abnormal blood clots. It led to the loss of vision in one of her eyes and threatened to put a full stop to her childhood dream of becoming a fashion designer. Geethika Kanumilli was not one to give up, however, not even when her eye condition worsened to the point where she had to drop out of fashion school. The iron-willed designer decided to take her challenges head-on, went on to launch her own fashion label and expanded her brand’s customer base to 12 countries and 45 cities. She has also dressed many celebrities including Kiara Advani, Madhuri Dixit, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Trisha Krishnan, PV Sindhu and Allu Arjun. [caption id="attachment_47426" align="aligncenter" width="477"] Fashion designer Geethika Kanumilli | Photo: Instagram[/caption] Learning through mistakes “Everyone has their own idea of learning. Some believe it comes from earning a degree, reading books, or gaining work experience. For me, learning meant taking action,” points out fashion designer Geethika Kanumilli, in an exclusive with Global Indian. With no business or fashion background and no degree, Geethika has proved that through determination
ing. Some believe it comes from earning a degree, reading books, or gaining work experience. For me, learning meant taking action,” points out fashion designer Geethika Kanumilli, in an exclusive with Global Indian. With no business or fashion background and no degree, Geethika has proved that through determination and hard work, one can do the impossible.
The Hyderabad-based fashion designer has come a long, long way, and even if she had to take a long, difficult road to achieve her dreams, her creations are making waves across the globe. “I embraced the mindset of ‘doing’, being willing to make small mistakes and allowing circumstances to become my teacher,” she smiles. “Eventually, I realized that I had developed skills that surpassed what some of the highest educational institutions could offer,” she adds
Timeless designs, eco-friendly fashion
Geethika’s collections capture timeless sentiments with organic shapes, flowing fabrics and unique designs, creating an ambience that communicates volumes via touch and texture. “I intend to incorporate natural fabrics into occasion wear,” says Geethika, who is all about making her label eco-friendly and going zero waste. She also designs luxury craft items, tote bags from waste fabrics.
Her newly launched collection ‘Wilderness’, embraces the pure connection between Mother Earth and human emotions. “It captures timeless sentiments through organic shapes, flowing fabrics and unconventional designs,” says the 29-year-old. The heaviest piece in this collection took more than 300 working hours to create.
[caption id="attachment_47427" align="aligncenter" width="511"] The 'Gilded Noir saree set' (hand-embroidered, natural crepe) from the Wilderness collection[/caption]
She has done several exhibitions across the world, including Singapore and US, where she has a huge fan following. Her creations are also available at select stores in the US, UK and Dubai.
A childhood dream
Born in Chennai, Geethika always had a deep fasincation for clothing and fashion, and desired, deep down, to pursue a career that involved it. “Although I did not know what to call it at the time, I later discovered that people referred to this as being a Fashion Designer,” Geethika recalls.
She was so passionate about designing clothes that she would lock her door and play dress-up games on her computer instead of getting ready for school. “When I turned 14, I found myself contemplating how to become a fashion designer, but I had no idea where to begin. I was desperately searching for answers until a relative came into my life and showed me the path,” recalls Geethika, who did her schooling in Chettinaad Vidyashram, Chennai. She then moved to Hyderabad, where she has remained since.
A temporary deviation
However, when the time came to join the 11th grade, she encountered a common tradition in Hyderabad: the expectation to pursue either Engineering or MBBS (medical studies). “Anything other than these options was considered inadequate, and surpassing them was deemed abnormal. Unfortunately, I fell into this trap as well.”Since her math skills were not strong, Geethika chose to study BiPC as a compromise to satisfy the desires of those around me. “After completing my 12th grade, when I wanted to take the entrance exam for a Fashion Design college, everyone tried to convince me to pursue MBBS instead. It took great effort, but I managed to convince them and prepared for the entrance test,” says the ace fashion designer, who has been featured in many international magazines.
A health crisis
However, as she was looking forward to writing the entrance test to get admission in the fashion design institute, fate threw a severe health problem her way. Her vision began to blur. She was taken to various hospitals to find out what was wrong. “After visiting multiple hospitals, we finally discovered that it was anti-phospholipid syndrome, an irreversible immune system disorder that leads to abnormal blood clots,” informs Geethika.
[caption id="attachment_47428" align="aligncenter" width="482"] 'Animal' actor Rashmika Mandanna wearing a design by Geethika Kanumilli[/caption]
Losing vision in one of her eyes was an incredibly challenging and distressing period for Geethika and her family. A few months of medications later, she was ready to take her entrance exam. “Unfortunately, it was too late, and the registration had already closed until the following year. I had no choice but to wait. This tested my patience to the extreme, and it felt as if some greater force was at work.”
A time of uncertainty
Geethika ended up taking a one-year break, hoping the illness would ease. Nevertheless, her determination to become a fashion designer remained unshaken. The following year, she took the entrance test and got admission into the top Fashion Design college in Hyderabad. “Finally, nothing stood in the way of my dream. I was fully charged and motivated to make the most of this opportunity,” she says.
However, during her second year of college, the same health issue resurfaced and started to affect her working eye, particularly during stitching sessions. “Initially, I managed with the support of my classmates, but eventually, I realized that continuing like that was not feasible. It was at this moment that I recognised the need to let go of my dream of becoming a Fashion Designer permanently,” says Geethika, who felt helpless, and quitting college in the middle of her second year was a significant blow.
“People around me made fun of my decision, and I felt embarrassed for not having a degree. I endured insults and criticism, but I chose not to disclose my health issues to most of my relatives and friends. I didn't want to use it as an excuse.” It was an intense period of uncertainty, and Geethika spent an entire year feeling lost and exhausted from the cycle of quitting and resting.
However, one fine morning in 2015, she took a decision, regardless of the outcome. She decided to start my own fashion label as a designer. “I was only 20 then, without any professional work experience or a degree. Many people, including my own family, were against the idea of pursuing something different,” recalls Geethika.
Despite the challenges, she gathered the resources to start a small-scale business, targeting customers within a three-kilometer radius. “I had no prior knowledge or experience in running a business, but I was determined to learn as I went along.”
The initial days of running a business were incredibly challenging. “There were times when my vision would blur, and I would fear that each hard day of work would be my last day of sight. But whenever the choice to quit or continue arose, I was clear from the beginning that I was working for glory, not just for money,” she says.
After three years of consistent hard work, Geethika’s brand's customer base expanded to 12 countries and 45 cities through online sales. “This success brought appreciation from friends and family, who were unaware of the true reason why I had dropped out of college,” she says.
The creative process
When she begins to design a dress for a client, she approaches it with an intense thought: "This person must look their best wherever they go." Although it may sound simple, the intensity with which I think this thought is abnormally high. This mindset drives me to create the most unique color combinations possible,” she says of her work.
For Geethika, her clients are not just customers; they are the medium through which she expresses herself. “Their satisfaction and joy in wearing my designs fuel my passion and remind me that my journey as a fashion designer is far from over.”
Geethika believes her life taught her an important lesson. “When you achieve success, the flaws that others once saw in you become examples for them to follow. The secret is to remember this and strive to reach that point,” she feels.
Telling her story
While many of her friends and relatives were unaware why she had to drop out of college, Geethika revealed it through TEDx. “I have always desired to connect with individuals who may have experienced similar situations, believing that their pain is their enemy. However, looking back, I now understand that pain can be a friend. In my case, without the pain, I would not have been driven to achieve what I have today,” says the fashion designer.
(June 26, 2023) Rocky S is a renowned fashion designer who has made a significant impact in the industry. With a passion for transforming fabric into art, Rocky S has dressed numerous celebrities, including Beyoncé, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Paris Hilton. His work has been showcased at international fashion weeks and his brand has gained recognition for its luxurious couture, bridal wear, and accessories. With meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to craftsmanship, Rocky S has established himself as one of India's top designers, captivating the fashion world with his innovative and exquisite designs. From a young age, Rocky Star found himself irresistibly drawn to the captivating allure of fashion. Whether it was observing trends, experimenting with styles, or simply appreciating the artistry behind clothing — he knew deep down that his destiny lay within the world of fashion design. He would help his friends select the perfect outfit for different events, and found he could style them flawlessly. “Even when I was in school, I was deeply captivated by the fashion world,” Rocky tells Global Indian. From Beyoncé and Paris Hilton to Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Carrie Underwood, Danielle Campbell, Kangana Ranaut and Nora Fatehi among others — Rocky S,
yanka Chopra Jonas, Carrie Underwood, Danielle Campbell, Kangana Ranaut and Nora Fatehi among others — Rocky S, as he is popularly known, has styled many celebrities across the world. He has also done six international shows including London Fashion Week (2016), Milan Fashion week (autumn/winter 2016), Dubai Fashion Week (2021) and LA Fashion Week (2022).
Born in Mumbai, Maharashtra in October 1970, a city he describes as brimming with culture and creativity, Rocky faced the loss of his father at a young age. “But my mother’s unwavering strength became a guiding light in my life,” informs Rocky, who has two elder brothers, one a chartered accountant and the other has made his mark in the realm of business construction.
Even back then, Rocky showed a deep interest in sartorial pursuits. “I still remember during holidays, my grandmother would create stunning outfits from scratch and lovingly gift them to us. I was truly captivated by the artistry of transforming a single piece of fabric into such garments,” smiles the ace designer. Alongside his passion for fashion, Rocky discovered an affinity for swimming, a sport that has influenced his life and values and remains indelible.
He went on to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in commerce, but swiftly transitioned to pursue his dreams in fashion design, enrolling at the esteemed JD Institute in Mumbai.
Brand Rocky S
His process begins with inspiration. "It consumes a significant portion of my time," he admits, "but serves as a catalyst for my creative flow. Once I find the perfect inspirations, my sketches come to life effortlessly." This inspriation springs from the people who hace influenced him, and played role in shaping his creative vision.
Rocky’s art is shaped by his love for travel, which he says ignited a passion for exploration. During his travels, he encountered remarkable gothic and baroque designs, which became a fount of inspiration for the ace designer. “These influences, combined with my unwavering vision, propelled me to establish my own brand in 1995, with a resolute mission to create relevant and luxurious couture for the ever-evolving women of today,” recalls Rocky, who is well known for his artistic mind and penchant for invention.
Over time, he nurtured a self-sustaining unit, housing skilled master craftsmen and artisans, who breathe life into each intricately designed piece. “At our atelier, we prioritize the art of precision, focusing on cut, comfort, fit, and finish, resulting in exquisite haute couture, bridal wear, luxury pret-a-porter, and accessories,” says Rocky.
Rocky now ships his creations worldwide, marking a remarkable evolution from his humble beginnings. “Today, we showcase our collections in prestigious multi-designer stores while maintaining our flagship store in Mumbai—a physical manifestation of our brand's essence, inviting fashion enthusiasts to immerse themselves in our world of style and craftsmanship,” he says.
Dressing up Beyoncé
Back in 2007, Rocky was pleasantly surprised to receive a phone call from the manager of superstar Beyonce, who was expected in Mumbai for a performance. The manager requested Rocky to bring a selection of outfits for the upcoming concert. “I swiftly gathered my team of assistants and headed to the hotel, armed with a carefully curated collection of 10-12 exquisite ensembles.”
As he presented the options to Beyonce, her eyes lit up with delight and after careful consideration, she ultimately chose the resplendent pink lehenga-choli for her stellar performance, says Rocky. He doesn’t just cater to the stars and their high-profile events, however. He works with the common people as well, and has established a reputation in the fashion community for offering a combination of style and comfort.
Association with ‘Miss India’
For many years, Rocky has served as the fashion director for Miss World, and has had a long association with the Miss Indian pageant – he was an official designer for Femina Miss India 2023 as well. He curates wardrobes for winners at events and red carpets.
This year, he says, his association with the pageant grew stronger as he had the honor of designing every gown for the state winners. “The collection of gowns exudes classic sophistication with a contemporary twist feature simple appliqué patchwork of cut Dana and stones. The delicate embroidery adds just the right amount of sparkle and texture to the gowns,” he explains. Only the finest silk, taffeta and velvet were used to create the meticulously-crafted gowns.
Future plans
Currently immersed in creating his newest collection, Rocky is pouring all his creative energy into the smallest details. “My strategy is to expand the brand’s presence by opening new stores both within India and abroad,” he says. “This decision is driven by the growing demand from our esteemed clientele, who hail from diverse locations such as the US, Canada, London, and Dubai,” Rocky adds.
Rocky’s other interests
Rocky is someone whose interests encompass a wide range of sources that fuel his creative spirit. “While I don't have a specific hobby per se, I find immense joy in traveling, immersing myself in different cultures, and drawing inspiration from the vibrant tapestry of the world.” He also enjoys techno music, which he says resonates with his artistic sensibilities and serves as a backdrop for his creative process.
Fashion in India
Coming to the fashion scene in India, Rocky says people are currently embracing and celebrating a captivating neon revival, which has brought a fresh burst of energy and vibrancy to the scene. “Alongside this exciting trend, they are also exploring a myriad of captivating variations in saree styles, pushing the boundaries of traditional attire. These variations encompass a wide spectrum of design elements, ranging from unconventional draping techniques to experimentation with fabrics, textures, and embellishments,” explains the fashion designer.
Moreover, the anticipated rise in luxury spending in India by 2030 presents a promising landscape for the industry, he feels. “This upward trend in luxury spending suggests a growing demand for exclusive and high-end fashion products, creating a favorable environment for designers to showcase their craftsmanship and creativity as well,” he says, adding that opens up exciting opportunities to cater to the discerning tastes and aspirations of affluent clientele.
Rocky S stands as an extraordinary force in the realm of fashion, leaving an indelible mark on the industry with his visionary designs and impeccable craftsmanship. From dressing global celebrities to captivating audiences with his runway showcases, Rocky S has cemented his position as a leading fashion maestro in India and beyond. With his unwavering dedication to excellence and his ability to breathe life into every ensemble he creates, Rocky S continues to inspire and shape the world of fashion, leaving a lasting legacy that transcends trends and time.
(September 17, 2021) Handlebar moustache and a sleek style is what makes British-Indian designer Saran Kohli stand out among the rest. The 34-year-old, who has an eponymous label, has become a name to reckon with in the fashion circles. So much so that even Hollywood's biggest studio Marvel couldn't ignore the designer who has styled the who's who of the entertainment industry. Kohli, who fell in love with fashion as a teenager while helping his mom set up her boutique, has now designed for one of the most-anticipated films of 2021 Eternals. Kohli, who started with big labels like Hugo Boss and Banana Republic, has come a long way in his Global Indian journey. Baby steps into fashion Born in East London in a Sikh family to immigrant parents who moved to the UK in the 70s, Kohli shifted to India at the age of two after his parents' divorce. It was in New Delhi that Kohli spent his initial days at his grandparents house while his mother started her own fashion business to build a new life for them. India gave Kohli the perfect opportunity to embrace his culture, and after spending 10 years, he returned to London with
his initial days at his grandparents house while his mother started her own fashion business to build a new life for them. India gave Kohli the perfect opportunity to embrace his culture, and after spending 10 years, he returned to London with his mom where she opened her first boutique.
It was his mom's boutique that became a schooling ground for Kohli in fashion. He would spend hours helping her in her sales and choreographing catwalk shows and that's how Kohli was introduced to the world of fashion. The texture, fabric and cuts is something that always attracted Kohli, and soon he found himself enrolled in London College of Fashion. After graduating in fashion management, Kohli found himself working for Japanese designer Michiko Koshino as a public relations and marketing assistant. This first hand experience of working with a designer helped Kohli understand the nuances of the craft and opened doors for him in labels like Hugo Boss and Banana Republic.
Knocking on the door with eponymous label
After learning the trick of the trade from the masters, Kohli launched his own fashion label Saran Kohli in 2009 - a one-stop shop for designer menswear. "I wanted to find that fine line between my heritage and a sartorial finishing with an informal approach to clothing where it could be worn in multiple fashion," he told Voice of Fashion. While his collections are manufactured in the UK and Europe, his craftsmanship is rooted in India as he works with the artisan families that his mom originally collaborated with.
Within two years of introducing his label, Kohli bagged the Best Newcomer Award in Fashion Design at International Asian Fashion Awards 2011. This catapulted Kohli's business and in no time, Saran Kohli Label became a favorite with celebrities across the globe. From singer Jay Sean to cricketer Sachin Tendulkar to Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, Kohli has styled the best in the world. It's Kohli love for music, dance, travel and culture that often inspire his collections.
After featuring in New York Times, GQ UK, UK Esquire and Asian Wealth Magazine, Saran Kohli Label opened its first official store in London in 2016, and has been going strong ever since. While Kohli has styled some of most well-known personalities, his real big break came in the form of Marvel's Eternals.
The Marvel moment
It was in 2019 that a call from Marvel Studios's costume department that took Kohli by surprise. The designer received a request to create outfits for 52 dancers for a sequence in Marvel's most-anticipated film Eternals that has Kumail Nanjiani playing the first South Asian superhero. Kohli, who himself is a choreographer and dancer, leapt at the opportunity. Keeping up with Marvel's stringent confidentiality protocols, Kohli couldn't understand the magnitude of the project till he signed on the dotted lines.
"It was a direct call from the costume department of Marvel Studios. Initially, they didn't even tell me if it was for a film. They just told me that they are looking for some costumes for this scene that has got a bit of a dance sequence. This is the kind of feel. I didn't interrogate so much initially because I have done film costume design in the past and I thought it must be one of those regular films only. Later when they sent an email, the film name was different, it was a made-up name of a film. They asked me to meet them at the Pinewood Studios. And when they took this name I figured out that it is going to be a big-budget film. I initially thought it might be a Bollywood flick. But later when I spoke to one of the heads of the costume department at Marvel, I realized it was something big for sure," he told the Times of India.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WVDKZJkGlY
Working with Marvel Studio was an enriching experience for Kohli as it gave him a chance to represent his Indian roots. "Marvel doesn’t just have an American audience, it is in every corner of the earth. It makes us feel appreciated and also inspires a lot of young talent to embrace who we are," he added.
Vitiligo awareness
While Kohli was all over the news for bagging a plum project like Marvels, his range of vitiligo masks in 2020 equally became the talk of the town. For someone who has struggled with the skin condition for years, Kohli decided to spread awareness and combat the stigma around it through his new range. It was the age of 16 that Kohli saw the first white spot on his face and for years, he hid it behind his glasses and full-length clothing. It took him many years to be comfortable in his skin, and now he has started a dialogue to create awareness on vitiligo with his collection.
"It is a great time to open up the avenues of fashion to the debate surrounding skin and a person’s skin color. We, as a generation, have been able to vocally express things that the previous generation has not been able to do," he told Indulge Express. Parts of the proceeds raised for the range were donated to the Vitiligo Society as a part of his advocacy and awareness campaign.
The 34-year-old Kohli, who fell in love with fashion at a young age, found his true calling in his label. And the designer has now put Indian fashion on the global map by designing for one of the biggest Hollywood films.
(February 19, 2022) It’s never too late to discover the artist in you. Anjini Prakash Laitu, 80, picked up the brush and palette at 60. Today, he wows the world and goes by the moniker Colourman of Dubai. After working non-stop for four decades, Anjini decided his retired life would be for himself, and his deep love for art. He did play with colours on fabric for years, but within the confines of his home. The simmering desire to become a well-known Indian artist kept nudging at him. His second innings in life involved pursuing art - His vibrant paintings, which are full of life and colours evoking positive vibes. Exhibited in the UAE, India and Nepal, this late bloomer has found his true calling. Even at 80, Anjini loves his brushes, canvas and colours so much that he paints around seven-eight paintings a month. He has participated in exhibitions in Dubai, Jaipur, Mumbai, Nepal and Qatar and has regularly displayed his works at World Art Dubai, one of the biggest international art events. “I am also a member of the prestigious Emirates Fine Art Society. Dubai has given me so much love and respect for my work. I have
for my work. I have also been honoured with the prestigious Golden Visa from Ministry Of Culture Dubai," he beams with pride.
[caption id="attachment_20135" align="aligncenter" width="755"] Anjini began painting when he was 60 and hasn't looked back since[/caption]
Colours inspired by Mathura
Growing up in Mathura, Anjini’s love for colours began there. “My parents got us colours during summer holidays to keep us engaged. I never missed a chance to experiment with colours,” Anjini says in an interview with Global Indian.
Shantiniketan in West Bengal was a place where he dreamed about honing his skill and artistry. However, he couldn’t pursue his dream as his parents, (from an academic background) had a dim view of art. “My father was an electrical engineer and mother, a teacher. Those days painting was not a noble profession. So my parents did not agree,” recalls Anjini.
A different route
Bidding goodbye to the world of colours, he studied for a diploma in paper technology. He began working as an apprentice at a paper mill in Yamuna Nagar, Haryana, where he worked with the Thapar Group for 37 years across various locations and positions.
The year 1996 brought with it the opportunity to move to Dubai to work for a glass bottle-making company, which is where he retired in 2001. Reinventing himself after retirement, he got back to his first love - art. “After my retirement, I did fabric painting with some Dubai designers, but the desire of being called a qualified Indian artist remained deeply embedded in my heart,” adds the artist.
Rise to stardom
He pushed the pedal and enrolled in Sharjah Art Institute in 2005 to hone his artistic skills, and became a “certified” artist within three years. In no time, his work started attracting art lovers.
[caption id="attachment_20130" align="aligncenter" width="771"] His work is inspired by the colours of Mathura, his hometown[/caption]
It was the Arab Cultural Club that gave him his first break for two solo exhibitions, one exclusively for canvas and the other for textile paintings. “This was when I entered into the art community as a fully qualified painter and there was no looking back,” he chuckles.
Anjini doesn’t believe in rules in the world of art. “I have been a painter who doesn’t believe in mathematics of 2 + 2 = 4. I advocate full freedom when we talk about art. My paintings should pass on positive energy, therefore the use of bright colours to make them lively. It’s also why I am lovingly called ‘Colourman’ in art fraternity,” the Indian artist explains.
Fabric painting
All through his working life, he kept his passion for art alive by painting motifs inspired by nature on dresses, shirts and sarees. “During the 60s, Fevicryl and Camlin started fabric colours. I experimented a lot with them. My wife preferred wearing only my hand-painted sarees. This made me quite an experienced fabric painter,” he adds.
In Dubai, he got the opportunity to work on fabric painting with some of the biggest names in haute couture like Akee and Walid Attalah. Shirts, denim, belts and shoes, had his customised motifs on them. Recently, he showcased his hand-painted saree collection at a fashion show at Dubai’s floating hotel Queen Elizabeth 2. “I am happy that painting is not my livelihood. I paint for my pleasure and happiness. Rest is a bonus and reward,” he smiles.
[caption id="attachment_20132" align="aligncenter" width="539"] As a fabric painter, Anjini has worked with some of the biggest names in haute couture[/caption]
Love for MF Husain
The legendary MF Husain greatly influenced Anjini. As a youngster, he would often travel from Yamuna Nagar to Delhi to meet his idol. “Either in Dhoomimall Art Gallery or Open Coffee House at Connaught Place. Fortunately, I also got a chance to meet my ustaad in Dubai when he shifted his base to the Middle East,” he adds.
Daily regimen
Three-four hours of painting daily, his weekends are for family. “I am also very fond of cooking, especially meat, or paani puri,dahi vada and some fusion dishes,” says the painter who likes a game of billiards once in a while.
“My plan for 2022 is to take part in the upcoming World Art Dubai and exhibit my new works on canvas and a fashion show of my hand-painted sarees,” the Indian artist reveals.
He’d like to leave his paintings to the next generation. Learning new things eggs him on, and he feels it’s important to let people, especially youngsters pursue their dreams, instead of waiting for decades like he did.
The 'Gilded Noir saree set' (hand-embroidered, natural crepe) from the Wilderness collection[/caption]
'Animal' actor Rashmika Mandanna wearing a design by Geethika Kanumilli[/caption]
Rocky S[/caption]
Anjini began painting when he was 60 and hasn't looked back since[/caption]
His work is inspired by the colours of Mathura, his hometown[/caption]
As a fabric painter, Anjini has worked with some of the biggest names in haute couture[/caption]