Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla Bring India Couture Week 2024: Wamiqa Gabbi, Taha Shah Badussha Steal The Opening Show
Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla, veterans of the Indian fashion industry, made a spectacular return to India Couture Week on Wednesday with a grand opening show. The runway at the Taj Palace Hotel in Delhi was illuminated with models showcasing exquisite ensembles from the celebrated designer duo's younger brands, Asal and Mard.
Adding to the allure of their show, the designers incorporated a beautiful touch of music and dance. Akshay and IP curated the song for the event, delivering a live performance that enthralled the audience and evoked loud cheers.
The designers further elevated the excitement by bringing Bollywood glamour to their show, featuring 'Heeramandi' fame Taha Shah Badussha and actress Wamiqa Gabbi as their muses.
Wamiqa Gabbi opened the show in an ivory trail lehenga from the 'Botanical Bloom' line, adorned with Resham embroidery using ivory silk threads, pearls, and crystals. She closed the show as a regal bride in a red lehenga from the 'Bridal Gota' collection, handcrafted with Gota, Zardozi, and encrusted with crystals. This marked Wamiqa's debut on the runway.
Taha Shah Badussha added an equally captivating presence. His greeting to the audience with an 'adaab' gesture was one of the highlights of his runway walk. He looked dashing in an olive silk tissue-long kurta sparkling with crystal-encrusted flying birds, paired with brocade flared pants that exuded a relaxed yet regal vibe. In another appearance, he donned brocade pants with a dramatic textile drape adorned in Zardozi embroidery, completed with a matching Zardozi belt.
Reflecting on the experience, Taha said, "It's an honour for me. It's like a dream. I will always be grateful... Their creativity is a constant source of inspiration. Mard by Abu Sandeep immersed me in a glamorous universe, enhancing my style with unmatched elegance and flair."
The show was a blend of various elements, including comedy. Stand-up comedian Sumukhi Suresh introduced the show with her quintessential humor, adding a unique twist to the event.
The front row was graced by notable personalities from fashion and Bollywood, including veteran actor and politician Jaya Bachchan, who shares a close bond with the designers. Influencers like Kusha Kapila and Komal Pandey were also in attendance.
Commenting on kick-starting ICW 2024, Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla said, "We aim to celebrate the spirit of love between modern couples, a bride who carries her cultural heritage with ease and pride, and a regal groom who exudes contemporary sophistication in a modern spirit, thus harmonising the old with the new to create the ideal wardrobe for their big day!"
Day 1 of India Couture Week 2024, an initiative by FDCI, was a true treat for fashion lovers, setting the stage for an exciting week ahead.
- PTC PUNJABI