AKUTEE'S TRIUMPH: Sagarika Ghatge's Vision to 3-5X Growth Unraveled

In the fashion arena, Akutee crafted by Sagarika Ghatge and her mother Urmila stands as a beacon of timeless elegance. Sagarika shares her visionary plan to catapult Akutee’s growth three to five times beyond its recent triumphs exclusively with IMAGES Business of Fashion...

- Sanya Arora

In the bustling world of fashion, where trends flicker like shooting stars, there emerges a brand that stands as a beacon of timeless elegance and cultural homage. Akutee, an ethnic wear brand founded by Bollywood actor Sagarika Ghatge and her mother, Urmila, is more than just a collection of garments; it's a narrative woven with threads of tradition, artistry, and the rich tapestry of the Ghatge dynasty's history.

In an exclusive interview with IMAGES Business of Fashion's Sanya Arora, Sagarika shares insights into the brand's inception, the royal influence that shaped its aesthetics, and the delicate balance of tradition and modernity.

Can you share the story behind the inception of Akutee?

What inspired you and your mother, Urmila, to start this ethnic wear brand? Akutee is an ode to rich textiles, detailing, and hand-painted garments that take you back in time to an era of artistic talent and impeccable taste. Growing up surrounded by elegant women draped in Chanderis, chiffons, tissues, and brocades, I was in awe of their poise and grace.

My mother Urmila was my biggest influence. A strong, independent and passionate woman who took up art at the age of 16 and has been painting ever since. Fond of nature, her handpainted floral patterns made way onto the garments she wore which soon became her signature style. She has now trained and mentored a collective of young artists to paint in her signature style and bring our brand Akutee to life.

Tell us about your dynasty's story.

Beyond the stitches and fabrics lies the rich tapestry of the Ghatge dynasty's history. Tracing back centuries, the Ghatges have woven their legacy with threads of resilience, military prowess, and diplomatic acumen.