In a significant career pivot, actor Adhyayan Suman has stepped into the world of high fashion as an entrepreneur, launching his own luxury label after facing limited success in Bollywood over nearly two decades. The star kid, who made his acting debut in 2008, has now founded Duchess Kumari, a brand that offers everything from kaftans priced at Rs 25,000 to couture gowns nearing Rs 4 lakh.
From Silver Screen to Fashion Scene: A 17-Year Bollywood Journey
Adhyayan Suman, son of veteran actor and television personality Shekhar Suman, first entered the film industry with the movie Haal-e-Dil in 2008. Despite his lineage, his career in Bollywood did not mirror the success of his father, who debuted decades ago opposite Rekha in Utsav. Over a span of 17 years, Adhyayan appeared in only 12 films and four web series, a trajectory that ultimately led him to explore avenues beyond acting.
This entrepreneurial shift culminated in the launch of Duchess Kumari in March of this year. The brand is a family affair, launched in partnership with Miss Universe India Divita Rai and his mother, Alka Suman, with financial backing from his father, Shekhar Suman.
Celebrity Endorsements and Staggering Price Tags
In a short time, Duchess Kumari has managed to attract attention from notable celebrities. The brand has already styled prominent figures like Twinkle Khanna and Kajol. A significant milestone was achieved when actress Anushka Sen wore a creation from the label for her debut on the Cannes red carpet this year.
The brand's offerings sit firmly in the luxury segment. The Amara Gown, the deep-plum strapless couture piece worn by Anushka Sen at Cannes, is priced at a staggering Rs 3,50,000 on the brand's website. Other highlighted items include the Noorani Kaftan, listed at Rs 24,444 (currently discounted to Rs 21,999), a Regal Brocade Set for Rs 16,500, and a Royal Durbar Tunic priced at Rs 10,650.
Farah Khan's Playful Visit and the 'Expensive' Kaftan
The label recently received a visit from filmmaker and choreographer Farah Khan, who featured the Suman family's home and the brand in her YouTube vlog. During the visit, Farah browsed the collection, trying on several outfits including the Noorani Kaftan, which she wore for dinner.
The interaction was filled with light-hearted banter. When Farah asked Adhyayan how he managed to create the brand, his father Shekhar humorously intervened, comparing it to Farah's own multi-hyphenate career. Later, after praising the hospitality and the food, Farah joked about the kaftan, saying, "Thank you for the mind-blowing food, and this mind-blowing dress — which I’m going to return to you because it’s very expensive." She did not make a purchase during the visit.
This new venture marks a fresh chapter for Adhyayan Suman, transitioning from seeking roles in front of the camera to crafting exclusive designs behind the scenes, carving a niche in India's competitive luxury fashion market.
