Urban Elegance: Mukesh Dubey’s Fusion Collection Redefining Tradition

In the ever-evolving landscape of fashion, designer Mukesh Dubey has carved a niche for himself by seamlessly blending contemporary aesthetics with traditional charm. His latest collection, unveiled with much flair, features a stunning array of floral and geometric printed lehengas, complemented by men’s kurtas with asymmetrical cut hemlines, all accentuated by intricate embroidery and versatile Nehru jackets in an earthy palette.

Dubey’s creative genius shines through as he draws inspiration from urban life, infusing a modern twist into timeless ethnic wear. The collection effortlessly marries the vibrancy of floral and geometric prints with the subtlety of earthy tones, creating a visual symphony that resonates with the cosmopolitan spirit.

The lehengas, adorned with contemporary prints, are a testament to Dubey’s keen eye for design. The incorporation of asymmetrical cut hemlines adds a touch of edginess, redefining the conventional silhouette. This bold move not only sets the collection apart but also caters to the modern woman who seeks both style and comfort.

One cannot ignore the sophistication exuded by the men’s kurtas, thoughtfully paired with versatile Nehru jackets. The combination not only adds a layer of depth to the ensemble but also presents an ideal fusion of tradition and modernity. The earthy palette chosen by Dubey serves as a nod to the roots of Indian culture, creating a harmonious blend that appeals to a diverse audience.

What sets Mukesh Dubey’s collection apart is its adaptability to various occasions. The ensembles presented on the runway are not just pieces of clothing; they are a reflection of the modern individual’s need to balance tradition and contemporary trends. These outfits effortlessly transition from formal events to more casual affairs, making them a perfect choice for destination events.

The designer’s vision becomes evident as each piece communicates the seamless integration of modernity while honoring age-old traditions. Mukesh Dubey has managed to encapsulate the essence of urban life in every stitch, providing fashion enthusiasts with a wardrobe that is not only stylish but also culturally rich.

Mukesh Dubey’s contemporary fusion collection has successfully blurred the lines between tradition and modernity. The floral and geometric prints, paired with asymmetrical cuts and earthy tones, create an ensemble that is both visually striking and culturally rooted. With each stride down the runway, Dubey’s designs showcase a perfect amalgamation of style, comfort, and tradition, making them a must-have for those who seek elegance with a touch of urban flair.

Mukhowta: Unveiling the Soul Behind the Mask in Raj Shahani’s Sculpture Exhibition

Step into the enchanting world of Raj Shahani’s exhibition, “Mukhowta,” where wood meets metal, and ancient traditions merge with contemporary art. Until February 29th, Bikaner House serves as the canvas for Shahani’s unique series of sculptures, inviting visitors to explore the intersection of materiality, spirituality, and self-reflection.

A Forest of Stories:
In “Mukhowta,” Shahani crafts a sacred forest using antique wooden corbels arranged in a circular formation. Each piece, adorned with a metal covering of copper, gold, silver, panchadhatu, bronze, German silver, brass, and steel, conceals a deeper narrative. Drawing inspiration from the sacred Snake Groves of Northern Malabar, the exhibition weaves a constellation of wood and metal within the Mughal Fountain Rotundas, offering a visual journey reminiscent of the Snake Groves’ mystical allure.

Reflecting Alter Egos:
Behind the shining plates of metal lies more than meets the eye. Shahani, with a keen artistic touch, repairs and accentuates each wooden object, symbolizing the masks we wear—the “Mukhowta” that hides our authentic selves. The exhibition challenges us to ponder the ethereal presence of sculpture materials and consider the dichotomy of our own adorned exteriors.

Serpentine Guardians:
Central to the exhibition are two fountains adorned with serpent sculptures, dubbed “Sarpa Devtas.” Inspired by the sacred Snake Groves of Kerala, these jute-rope serpents symbolize nature’s protectors, beckoning belief in the sanctity of the environment. As water sprouts toward the sky, the serpents stand as guardians, encouraging us to reflect on our connection with nature and its role in safeguarding our well-being.

Queerness, Gaze, and Catharsis:
Priyanka Kheterpal of AnamKara reflects on Shahani’s art practice as a profound exploration of queerness, gaze, and the therapeutic power of sculpture. In a world grappling with a mental health pandemic, art becomes a soulful companion—a notion beautifully translated as “AnamKara” in Celtic.

Masks and Magical Realities:
Delving into the history of visual culture in India, the exhibition explores the undeniable existence of masks as spiritual tools. Drawing parallels with the Theyyam performances in Northern Kerala, Shahani’s art pays homage to shamans and divine presence, captivating audiences with esoteric and magical experiences.

Dichotomy of Sacredness and Pollution:
Several sculptures, such as ‘Pitala (Brass)’ and ‘Tambra (Copper),’ delve into the memories held within the veins of logs, while others, like ‘Swarna (Gold)’ and ‘Rajata (Silver),’ adorn peacocks with precious metals. Shahani cleverly uses materials like bronze, tin, steel, and aluminum to fill cavities, symbolizing the incomplete nature of our adorned selves. The exhibition challenges us to contemplate the sacredness and pollution inherent in our modern psyche.


“Mukhowta” is not just an exhibition; it’s an immersive journey into the realms of art, spirituality, and self-discovery. As you explore Raj Shahani’s sculptures, let the stories hidden within wood and metal prompt reflection on your own ‘Mukhowta’—the mask you wear—and the profound connection between nature, art, and the human soul.

Bihar Couture Runway: A Grand Celebration of Tradition and Innovation

Bihar Couture Runway, an annual non-profit fashion event held at Gyan Bhawan in the capital city of Patna, is making waves in the world of fashion. Organized by SR Adventure with the generous support of Captain Aryan Sinha, Abhishek Kumar, and Shubham Rajveer, this spectacular showcase has become a significant platform for both established and emerging designers. The event, backed by an unbeatable team from SR Adventures and Tanaash Media, boasts the dedicated efforts of individuals like Nahid Fatima, Vikas Kumar, and Avinash Ranjan, all instrumental in making Bihar Couture Runway a resounding success.

The primary objective of Bihar Couture Runway is to foster and promote designers from across the country, with a particular focus on emerging talents from the region. Collaborating with national and international partners and sponsors, the organization creates opportunities and unwavering support for participating designers. The event is a commitment to celebrating the timeless craftsmanship of India and Bihar’s rich culture and techniques within the realm of fashion.

The runway opened with a stunning display from “PRITHS by Pritam,” featuring many ensembles showcasing a mix of diverse textiles such as brocade, velvet, tulle, and satin. The collection included tulle dresses, satin bustiers, and feminine skirts, with a unique twist of drapes given to brocade in one-piece ensembles. Showstopper Nitika Satya, Mrs. India Galaxy 2023, graced the stage in a vibrant red and gold brocade draped dress, accentuated by a one-sleeve jacket and a tulle veil attached at one shoulder. The look was completed with a diamond and stone-studded winner’s crown, a diamond neckpiece, and ear-drops in collaboration with jewelry partner ‘House of Vedika.’

Label Priyanka Fashionvilla by Priyanka showcased a spectacular collection of occasional wear, flooding the runway with draped lehenga sets, sculpted blouses, veils, trails, self-design textile pantsuits, jeweled gowns, and concept sarees. The collection exemplified contemporary silhouettes with exquisite embroidery, cuts, and craftsmanship, all in a vibrant palette of colors, perfectly capturing the essence of India Modern for the fall festive season.

Mahi Kids Studio by Mahi Singh presented a diverse kids’ collection, from pre-wedding to post-function attire. The captivating and glamorous designs left the audience stunned with real mogas and flowers adorning the little ones’ hair. Miss Teen International 2023, Sejal Gupta, walked the runway as the showstopper, donning an all-black tulle ensemble ornamented with 3D butterflies.

Debut designer Manisha Singh Rathore, creative director for “Label Manisha Singh Rathore,” showcased her first women’s collection titled “The Fall of Fabric.” The collection, inspired by the tradition of wearing sarees with grace and grandeur, featured indo-western cuts with fine detailing, including gathers, pleats, and ruffles. Each ensemble was ornamented with cut dana, pearls, and gota work, giving them a magnificent look.

Bihar Couture Runway is not just a fashion event; it’s a celebration of tradition and innovation. With designers pushing boundaries and redefining the concept of modern Indian fashion, this platform continues to be a driving force in promoting and nurturing the rich cultural heritage of Bihar in the global fashion landscape.

Alia Bhatt Stuns at Met Gala 2023 with Timeless Hollywood Glamour Look

Alia Bhatt‘s recent appearance at the Met Gala in 2023 has been the talk of the town. The Met Gala is one of the most anticipated fashion events of the year, where celebrities show off their most glamorous and extravagant looks. Alia Bhatt did not disappoint with her stunning outfit and unique style.

Alia Bhatt, who is known for her effortless style and grace, arrived at the Met Gala in a stunning Atelier Prabal Gurung gown which had more than 100,000 pearls hand embroidered in India on satin-faced organza from Europe. The gown featured a plunging neckline and a long train, adding to the dramatic effect of the dress.

Image Source:- Instagram
Image Source :- Instagram
Image source: – Instagram

The 2023 MET Gala Serves Up Major Bridal Fashion Inspiration, which Alia is giving right now and in a very seductive way. She posted the following pictures with the Instagram caption “

Met Gala — Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty

I have always been fascinated by the iconic Chanel brides. Season after season, the genius of Karl Lagerfeld shone through in the most innovative and awe-inspiring couture. My look tonight was inspired by this and in particular by supermodel Claudia Schiffer’s 1992 Chanel bridal look.

I wanted to do something that felt authentic (hello, pearls!) and proudly made in India. The embroidery, made with 100,000 pearls is a labor of love by @prabalgurung. I’m so proud to wear you for my first Met.

Makeup was my go-to beautiful glowing sheer skin but this time with wayyyyyyyy more blush to give a look all that romance, rounding it off with a smudgy defined eye with Kajal on the inside (our subtle ode to Karl’s sunglasses 🕶️)

A girl can never have too many pearls… and the right accessories to complement the look, which in our case translated to the bow of pearls on my hair.

Oh, and it’s white, for my Choup-ED🐱”

Image source:- Instagram
Image Source:- Instagram
Image Source:- Instagram
Image Source:- Instagram

Alia’s appearance at the Met Gala has been praised by many in the fashion industry. Her outfit was a perfect blend of old Hollywood glamour and modern style. The attention to detail in her gown was impressive, and her accessories were perfectly curated to complement her look. In addition to her outfit, Alia’s presence at the Met Gala has sparked conversations about diversity and representation in the fashion industry. As a Bollywood actress, Alia brought a unique perspective to the event, showcasing the beauty and style of Indian fashion.

Overall, Alia Bhatt’s appearance at the Met Gala in 2023 was a showstopper. Her stunning gown, elegant hair, and minimal makeup created a timeless look that was both glamorous and modern. Alia has proven herself to be a fashion icon, and we can’t wait to see what she brings to the red carpet next.

“Unleashing the Art of Fashion: Exploring the World of Costume Design”- The Legacy of Bhanu Athaiya

Bhanu Athaiya, India’s first Oscar-winning costume designer, left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. Born in 1929 in Maharashtra, she began her career in film as a costume designer in the 1950s and went on to design costumes for over 100 films. Her attention to detail, innovative designs, and vibrant colors earned her a reputation as one of the leading costume designers in India. Athaiya’s work on the 1982 film “Gandhi” won her an Academy Award for Best Costume Design, making her the first Indian to win an Oscar. She used her platform to raise awareness about the importance of costume design in telling a story and bringing characters to life on screen.

Mumtaz and Dharmendra in Aadmi Aur Insaan (1969)
Photo Credits:- Prinseps
Saira Banu in Jhuk Gaya Aasman (1968)
Photo Credits : Prinseps

Throughout her career, Athaiya was known for her ability to blend tradition with modernity in her designs seamlessly. She often drew inspiration from Indian textiles and handicrafts but also incorporated Western influences to create unique and memorable costume designs. Athaiya’s contribution to Indian cinema has had a lasting impact. Her innovative designs and attention to detail inspired future generations of costume designers in India and around the world.

Vyjayantimala in Amrapali (1966)
Photo credits : Prinseps

Rekha in Muqaddar ka Sikandar
Photo Credits: Prinseps

Even today, her work continues to be celebrated and recognized for its excellence and if you want to admire her work than you can visit the exhibitionat the Bikaner house (till 2nd February) showcasing her work. From the beautiful artworks to the sketches and costumes that were actually worn in the flim by the actresses like sharmila tagore, Helen ,Mumtaz and Meena Kumari , everything that you need to know about her is presented in the exhibition. Bhanu Athaiya’s legacy as a trailblazer in Indian costume design will forever be remembered. Her passion and talent have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema, and her work will continue to inspire future generations of costume designers. Here is a glimpses of the exhibition:

Rajkumar Rao sets fire on the grand final ramp at the Indian couture week in Anamika Khanna`s outfit

Designer Anamika Khanna closed the Fashion Week with Actor Rajkumar Rao as the showstopper for the Grand finale show. Rajkumar Rao not just looked stunningly handsome but made sure to set the fire on the runway and drop the jaws in the audience. The Actor wore a black Sherwani with a statement neckpiece by
Birdhichand Ghanshyamdas Jewelers definitely added the extra hotness to his walk.

Actor Rajkumar Rao in Designer Anamika Khanna`s outfit for the Grand finale of ICW 2022h

Actor Rajkumar Rao in Designer Anamika Khanna`s outfit for the Grand finale of ICW 2022

Actor Rajkumar Rao in Designer Anamika Khanna`s outfit for the Grand finale of ICW 2022

The Designer Presented her Couture collection “An Experiment” for the finale show of FDCI Indian couture week 2022.

Stemming from an extreme need for change and pushing boundaries, this collection is an open field for experimentation.

Designer Anamika Khanna`s Collection “AN EXPERIMENT” for FDCI Indian Couture Week 2022

Designer Anamika Khanna`s Collection “AN EXPERIMENT” for FDCI Indian Couture Week 2022

Designer Anamika Khanna`s Collection “AN EXPERIMENT” for FDCI Indian Couture Week 2022

Designer Anamika Khanna`s Collection “AN EXPERIMENT” for FDCI Indian Couture Week 2022

An awareness of the spectacular Indian silhouettes, textiles and sentiments, we move to amalgamate something old, something new.

Treating precious something that always was with reverence, notwithstanding that they may  have aged, at the same time and approach of nonchalance to luxury.


Designer Anamika Khanna`s Collection “AN EXPERIMENT” for FDCI Indian Couture Week 2022

Designer Anamika Khanna`s Collection “AN EXPERIMENT” for FDCI Indian Couture Week 2022

Designer Anamika Khanna`s Collection “AN EXPERIMENT” for FDCI Indian Couture Week 2022

The shapes are inspired by the “goddess” paired with deconstruction and pattern making techniques. There is also referencing the ever exuberant tribal India, approached with an eye of modernism. We are unafraid to align, non aligned perceptions.

The colour palette is varied starting with sombre blacks, delicate lace in ivory to powerful red and emeralds. Metallica plays an important role. Pearl takes centre stage.


Designer Anamika Khanna`s Collection “AN EXPERIMENT” for FDCI Indian Couture Week 2022

Designer Anamika Khanna`s Collection “AN EXPERIMENT” for FDCI Indian Couture Week 2022

Designer Anamika Khanna`s Collection “AN EXPERIMENT” for FDCI Indian Couture Week 2022

Designer Anamika Khanna`s Collection “AN EXPERIMENT” for FDCI Indian Couture Week 2022

Amit Aggarwal once again mesmerized the whole audience by turning the whole Stadium into the Runway for his couture show at FDCI Indian couture Week

We all are already stunned by the collection presented by all the designers in the Indian Couture Week but Designer Amit Aggarwal has taken a step ahead to take the whole show to a next level to present his collection “Pedesis”. According to the designer`s Instagram Q&A, he has given us a whole walkthrough of the collection a day before his show. “Pedesis is one of our most colorful collections yet! We`ve used different colors that cannot be imagined together in couture. After all, we dream through colors and make sense of the beauty of life through colors.” – Designer Amit Aggarwal

Here is a small walkthrough of the show:

The collection is a refreshing bookend to our part-miraculous, part-fantastical journey of a decade. But a constant thread of morphing forms and blurring the inescapable folds of time runs through it all. It is also a kaleidoscope ode to the fact that we are at an interesting bend in time where the digital space accommodates those whimsical aspects of ourselves not accessible in the physical world. Every silhouette shows that we carry the echo of the first human and hold the inception of the future – overlaid on the fine-grained realities of the present. This collection is a celebration of the fact that we are the glitch in time: warping forms, straddling realms, embracing eternity.

The Inspiration for his new collection in one word would be “Time”. “Although it`s a quantifiable entity, to me, time is a fascinating concept because of how truly blurred it is. We like to slot tribes as “ancient” and robots as “Future”. but in reality, all of us carry echoes of the first human and the promise of the future inside us. We’re all walking and talking manifestations of just how fluid time is.”- Designer Amit Aggarwal

If we talk about the Material used in the collection then, they always have to be married to the new-age materials with traditional techniques. To give us a specific example in Pedesis, they have contemporized the Ikat with handloom and Polymers. According to the designer himself, ” Couture allows you to experiment, to breathe, to let go and yet be meditative about it all.” Let’s just say that this collection made him sleepless the day before his show and the adrenaline rush was super high.

From the Theatrical sets to Velvet sweat suits for men here is all you need to know about Designer Siddhartha Tyler`s show from last night

Designer Siddhartha Tyler did an amazing show last night at the couture week, without disappointing us but giving us some major inspirations for the coming wedding season. The designer had a mesmerizing show with the theatrical sets inspired by the Chinese term “Shan Shui” which refers to a style of traditional Chinese painting that involves or depicts any scenery or natural landscapes. Here is a small glimpse of the Sets:-

Picture Credits:- https://www.instagram.com/fdciofficial/
Picture Credits:- https://www.instagram.com/fdciofficial/
Picture credits:- https://www.instagram.com/fdciofficial/

The show stole the eyes of the audience as Singer Guru Randhawa and Actor Farhan Akhtar walk down the ramp. both looking equally stunning and handsome at the same time. The collection definitely inspired a lot of people for the upcoming Cocktail and wedding Events with the touch of the tones of maroon, navy, olive, and our all-time favorite black.

Here are some backstages glimpses of the show:-

Picture credits:- https://www.instagram.com/bridestodayin/

Picture Credits:- https://www.instagram.com/bridestodayin/

Picture Credits:- https://www.instagram.com/bridestodayin/
Picture Credits:- https://www.instagram.com/fdciofficial/

The Fifties Show: Works of Indian Modernism

The Fifties Show revisits a momentous decade of newly-independent India that had just put its colonized past behind it to embrace triumphant modernism.

DAG’s new space at The Claridges, New Delhi, will see the opening of its latest exhibition, titled The Fifties Show. This exhibition encapsulates key highlights in Indian art over a decade of the 1950s, spotlighting how a newly-independent nation put its colonized past behind and embraced triumphant modernism.

Indian art in the twentieth century witnessed two important decades: The first one was the 1910s when the Bengal School saw the establishment of the “revivalist practice” that came to signify Indian modern art in general. Another was the 1950s when Indian artists of independent India embraced modernish that was free of their colonial history.

In 1950, the first copy of the Constitution of India, handcrafted and illustrated by Nandalal Bose and other Santiniketan artists, was dedicated to the republic, the Progressives were at the peak of their oeuvre, and younger artists were challenging their place with bold formats of art-making.

The 1950s was a period of hope and celebration, which saw the creation of works emblematic not just of the decade but of the context and subtexts of modernism itself. A period when the best and brightest in the Indian art world—such as Nandlal Bose, M F Husain, S H Raza, F N Souza, G R Santosh, K K Hebbar, Adi Davierwalla, Shanti Dave, Dhanraj Bhagat, etc—created some of their most significant masterpieces.

The exhibition will be on view from 1 February 2020 – 26th March 2020

Here are a few glimpses of the paintings:-


About DAG

DAG (formerly known as the Delhi Art Gallery) was established in 1993 in New Delhi, and over the past 25 years, has built a reputation for the quality of its collection that represents the expanse of Indian art practice. This extensive collection charts a historic continuum, from the early works of academic artists trained in Bengal and Bombay, to modernists from Baroda, Delhi and beyond, and includes artworks by some of India’s most celebrated artists, including Raja Ravi Varma, Amrita Sher-Gil, Jamini Roy, S. H. Raza, M. F. Husain, Tyeb Mehta, F. N. Souza, Avinash Chandra, and Chittaprosad. With the aim of taking Indian modernism to a wider audience, DAG now has gallery spaces in the historic Kala Ghoda in Mumbai, and the iconic Fuller Building in Manhattan, New York, in addition to its gallery in Delhi. It regularly participates in international fairs such as Art Basel Hong Kong, Armory New York, Art Dubai, Masterpiece London, and India Art Fair.

The mandate of taking art to the people has led to museum-quality exhibition collaborations with stellar art institutions such as the National Gallery of Modern Art, Mumbai, Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum, Mumbai, The Nehru Memorial Museum & Library, New Delhi, the Punjab Lalit Kala Akademi, Chandigarh, and the Jawahar Kala Kendra, Jaipur. DAG’s first monumental public-private collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India—Drishyakala museum at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Red Fort—was inaugurated by India’s Prime Minister on 23 January 2019, has been widely feted, nationally and internationally and has an average footfall of 4,000 people every day.

With the democratization of Indian art as its core aim, DAG consistently hosts outreach programs for students of schools and colleges and also runs a pioneering program for the visually impaired by allowing them to experience art through tactile aids.

www.dagworld.com

F(R)iction at Kona – art that is a must to watch

to celebrate the 5 year anniversary of the inception of Lodhi Art District, St+Art India has decided to treat us with a beautiful temporary exhibition, that brings together over 19 international artists. The artists have been working on their installations for weeks, and the final product is now open to the public. The artwork will be focusing on themes of alternate realities, and effects of technology. The genre of the art rangers from murals, to Al, to weaving and needlework.

St+Art India has organised curated walking tours around the Lodhi Art District, and if you`re lucky, you might even get the chance to interact with the artists. Apart from that, KONA will also host pop-up exhibitions and workshops such as zine making and sticker making, accompanied by great music from Boxout.fm.