In sharp contrast to the low-key kick-off last year with a line-up of turbanned models, this year's India Fashion Week was flagged off by a provocative Diandra showing the audience her middle finger to the accompaniment of a raunchy number. That, I thought, set the pace for the entire event, giving it a hep, racy, provocative feel.

The shows began with Delhi designer Aki Narula and Goa whizkid Savio Jon showcasing their collections jointly. The clothes were really wacky. The hairstyles were even more interesting.

What was indecent though was model Ajay Balhara giving a show of his pubic hair with real low-slung golden G-strings. Disgusting!!!

Outside the Taj Mahal Ball Room, where the shows were being held, the scene was picking up very slowly on this, the first day of India Fashion Week 2001. People were busy making their press calls; designers were still setting up their stalls.

The second show of the day was Ritu Kumar's. As is expected of the lady, she put up a brilliant performance! Ruby Bhatia and Pooja Batra opened her show to the song, Yeh hai Mumbai, yeh hai Mumbai, meri jaan… Ruby was full of beans and the entire scene was nicely handled.

The evening was once again a treat with the Monisha Jaisingh show. I expected nothing less from this Mumbai designer and once again, she presented a fabulous collection. Lots of colour, loads of Indian sensibility and Swarovskys all over the place.

The day was rounded off with the party thrown by the Fashion Design Council at the Indigo restaurant. The invitee list went out from Tarun Tahiliani and the Who's Who was there. An enjoyable evening! More to look forward to tomorrow….
by  Vijay Arora
(The author is a fashion designer writing exclusively for HT.com from Mumbai)
   

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