Chennai's cultural calendar witnessed a magnificent event as celebrated designer Shravan Kummar marked his 25th anniversary in the fashion industry with a unique showcase titled 'Margazhi'. The evening was a profound tribute to Indian heritage, craft, and personal inspiration, transforming the heritage-inspired venue, Utsavam, into a living museum of textiles and art.
A Venue Transformed into a Saree Sanctuary
The setting was meticulously crafted to reflect Kummar's aesthetic philosophy. Utsavam venue became an extension of his vision, with drifting silks and classical music creating an immersive atmosphere. Guests were greeted by an exquisite array of Kanjivarams and Banarasi sarees, displayed in a manner that encouraged close appreciation, much like artifacts in a museum. One of the most poignant sections was dedicated to Kummar's mother, Parvathy Devi, featuring her personal saree collection.
"She has been one of my biggest muses. My journey in fashion is deeply tied to her and everything she represents," Kummar expressed, highlighting the profound familial influence on his work. The air was filled with live raaga music, enhancing the sensory journey through installations that included 300-year-old Tanjore paintings and fabric displays that moved gently, as if animated.
Where Fabric Whispered History and Dance Brought Narrative
"When they move, it feels like every saree is trying to tell its story," Kummar noted about the gently swaying textiles. This narrative quality extended to the event's grand finale—a fashion presentation seamlessly interwoven with dance performances. The choreography drew inspiration from the tales of Lord Krishna, focusing on his victorious dances.
Reflecting on this theme, Kummar shared, "The narrative of Krishna’s victorious dances stayed with me — the symbolism, the movement, the celebration… I believe it’s the colours that tell the story… a reflection of life in all its hues." The collection presented was a vibrant dialogue between colour, movement, and traditional craftsmanship.
A Labour of Love Rooted in Craft
Describing 'Margazhi' as an experience deeply rooted in craft and heritage, Kummar revealed the immense effort behind the spectacle. "It took us almost two and a half years to put this together… It’s been a labour of love," he stated. The event stood out not merely as a fashion show but as a cultural statement, emphasizing preservation, storytelling, and the emotional resonance of handloom textiles.
By merging timeless art, music, dance, and fashion, Shravan Kummar's 25th-anniversary celebration successfully created a holistic cultural experience. It underscored the designer's commitment to heritage while showcasing the endless storytelling potential of Indian textiles and crafts.
