INDIA TO THE WORLD!

The icons who re-introduced Indian fashion on the global stage.

- JISHNU BANDYOPADHYAY

After independence, India was understandably in the middle of an existential crisis. Years of rule had British established a new reputation for India, it had become a well-known exporter of raw materials. Born out of a subcontinent that was so deeply rooted in its crafts that were systematically targeted by colonial powers, the traditional and folk arts of the country were suffering and vanishing. The partition-induced violence resulted in the displacement of craftspeople, leaving them as refugees and torn away from their homes and livelihoods. But Indian crafts were ready to make a comeback.

Over the years, Indian textiles would go on to significantly impact global fashion trends and inspire iconic collections. With a rich heritage dating back millennia, India's intricate designs, luxurious fabrics like cotton, silk, and linen, and techniques, such as ikat, bandhani, and brocade, would influence textile production worldwide.