Fashionably patriotic

Get a Gandhi cap or a few Indian flags from the traffic light, or at the most play our national anthem — this is how, we Indians, celebrate August 15.

Get a Gandhi cap or a few Indian flags from the traffic light, or at the most play our national anthem — this is how, we Indians, celebrate August 15. But here are some people who not just want us to wear patriotism on our sleeves, but make it a habit too.

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Pranavi Kapur has been pioneering the cause of malkha — a refined version of Khadi. Kapur, who has been working with revivalist Uzramma, wants the fashion world to take to malkha as it has “the gentleness and a soul of Gandhi”. She says, “Malkha is more than a fabric — it’s a movement that will help thousands of families in the villages secure their livelihood,” adding “the mulmul takes out the coarseness of the fabric making it soft on the skin too”.

Payal Gupta is emphasising the importance of tri-coloured gemstone jewellery. She says, “Green is represented by emerald, similarly coral represents saffron and South sea pearls whites.”

Bridal-wear designer Abha Dalmia says, “Tricolour bridal outfits signify freedom from the staid old dressing norms.” But is the tri-colour fashion just another fad that picks up ocassionally? “I hope not. I hope my collection helps revive the tri-colour fashion for good.” We hope so too!