Quintessentially Indian

These pages will bring to the diaspora Indian style and fashion trends, classics as well as the new discoveries. We will delve into the fashion fabric of the country to bring you clothing, jewellery, watches, statement pieces and accessories

BY RUKMA SALUJA

SAREES BY SAWAN GANDHI

What can be more Indian than the sari? But did you know that what we claim as our very own might have its roots in Greece. Legend has it that this elegant Indian garment came to us from the Greeks. Alexander of Macedonia, known as one of the first conquerors the world has seen, is said to have left behind his trusted lieutenant, Seleucus Nicator, in the court of Chandragupta Maurya. His daughter wore the Grecian robe which was adopted by Indians of the time and morphed over the millennia into the sari as we know it today. Some find mention of it in the Rig Veda. Does it matter? It is perhaps the only garment in the world that enhances the beauty of any woman wearing it. But I may be biased. Forgive me. Versions of the sari are as varied as the ideas that weave them into warps and wefts.

We showcase Sawan Gandhi’s creations, which bring both oomph and elegance to the wearer:

KURTA & MORE BY RAGHAVENDRA RATHORE

The kurta, a loose collarless shirt for men, is perfect for our hot climate. Styles abound from the Lucknowi and the Bhopali to the kali and the
Hyderabadi. Cotton, linen, silk, fabric, weave, texture, style and look, there’s no end to the possibilities. No one does it better than Raghavendra Rathore who brings elegance to an everyday item of clothing. Paired with jeans or pyjamas, alone or with Nehru jackets, they are an evergreen item in any wardrobe.