Manav Gangwani stitches India’s 70 years in his Couture collection, says Angela Paljor
From intricate motifs of God and Goddesses of India to miniature art of Mughal empire to meenakari, patolas and panthani, master couturier Manav Gangwani’s latest collection had all this and more. At day-two of India Couture Week held recently in the Capital. Titled as India @70, Gangwani’s collection celebrated 70 years ofIndia’s Independence, tracing the country’s history from the Mughal ages to the recent ‘Make In India’ concept – which was dominant in his collection. An amalgamation of India’s colossal and vibrant heritage beautifully crafted in a modern and edgy design elements, the only-women collection
Talking about his latest collection he says, “I have taken inspiration from the rich Indian heritage and have created a collection that brings together interesting elements from every region of India. I have used techniques like silhouettes and designs that together create a perfect amalgamation of traditionalism and authenticity.”
The show started with an ensemble of lehengas made of silk brocades, rich velvets, sheer gauzy tissues with gold with intricate motifs of Kathakali from Kerala and traced its way to Kashmiri Jamawaar along with Rajasthani Bandaris and lucknow Chikankari adding a touch of mystery to traditional elements of design.
The use of miniature paintings in this collection prominently projected the cultural diversity that India has to offer along with great attention to detailing. He used different techniques like Badla, Chikankari, Zardosi and Parsi.
However, what stood out the most were the dresses that depicted the Mughal era. Velvet and brocades embellished with intricate embroidery work along with rectangular patches of Mughal art.
He used accentuated vintage gold elements to add a touch of royalty to every garment, epitomising the essence of every region in India. The colour pallet for his collection were royal blue, crimson, ivory, orange and green which are most commonly seen in India.
Each garment had an unusual and unique element – used as a storyboard to paint the Indian diversity. Gangwani believes that through this collection he has showcased the best of what India has to offer.
The installation of ‘Make in India’ was another unique component that enhanced the glory of the show. From heavily embroided wide-shoulder black top, haulter blouses and shirt tops paired with beautifully designed lehengas having mughal elephant, lions of ‘Make In India’ and kathakali motifs in zari and meenakari work. All this marked the USP of his collection.
Photos: Pankaj Kumar