Tarun Tahiliani is most known for his ability to blend fitting silhouettes with Indian textile craftsmanship and heritage.
In addition to becoming the preferred designer for B-town celebrities, Tarun has added a feather to his cap by accepting the prestigious responsibility of creating Team India’s ceremonial outfit for the Paris Olympics 2024. The traditional clothing embraces a feeling of patriotism embodied in the tricolor scheme of saffron, green and white, drawing inspiration from the rich cultural tapestry of India, collaborating closely with the Indian Olympic Association to design the clothing that conveys an Indian narrative.
The Pioneer got an opportunity to interact with the designer connoisseur over an exclusive telephonic interaction, as we not only discussed the design of Team India’s ceremonial dress but also designed dresses for several celebrities for the much-talked-about Radhika-Anant wedding.
Tejal Sinha
Excerpts from interview
How excited have you been for designing the ceremonial dress for Team India at the Paris Olympics?
It was because of the new spirit of India and at this moment in time, Team India wears this wonderful dress to compete on the world stage of the competition in the ceremonial path, where all the nations come together and show their best. This also means that it takes us back to the times of history. I, in fact, did not know there was a ceremonial address in the past, but now you see where India has reached, very proud and conscious of our image in the world. That’s how we are able to use our expertise in modern India, bringing growth and relevance.
A privilege for you and the team alike; how did it all come about?
As a result, Piyush Pandey, Tasva’s head of marketing, was questioned about it. We were all excited to be asked to carry out this task once we learned that it was a possibility. I wanted a brief about it; we didn’t have much time, but it was clear that the Olympics logo had to be on it in order to represent India and that was done on the pocket. That was the beginning of it—something that felt worldwide but appeared Indian. There has to be a connection between Kurta, Bandi and other things.
What considerations were made?
In my opinion as a designer, practicality should always come first, especially when creating bridal wear. I always believe that fashion needs to be something that you are comfortable in and something that allows you to easily move. We did our research and this time the Olympics are in Paris. I have been there since July and it’s been boiling hot there! First of all, we cannot control the weather. So the fabrics had to be made accordingly. We made it from lightweight moss cotton, taking the weather into account. Then, similarly, we designed for the flag bearers. We had to incorporate Indian colour, so we added those stripes to the bandi using tricolor Indian fabric and that’s how we created the Indian costume, Indian flag and comfortable feel. We tried to make a similar uniform for the women as well, but they were keen that a saree is something familiar for a woman in India, so we gave them an Ikat-inspired digitally printed panel in saffron, green and blue buttonholes representing the Ashoka Chakra, and an ivory base that represents peace and unity. The look is completed with modern trainers adorned with traditional Benares brocade, seamlessly blending tradition with contemporary fashion. During the entire process, we did go back and forth before we could bring the final one. PT Usha was very much a part of it!
Your designs were the major highlights of the Ambani wedding, too. What would you like to say about it?
We wanted to give the Kardashian sisters an updated version. As designers, we need to think of the contemporary and modern variations that come in. We aim to make the dresses beautiful and light. For example, Priyanka Chopra was looking beautiful in our designs and in the way she was dancing wearing that lehenga during the baraat because it was light. That’s the beauty we wish to bring in. We don’t want to create a museum. As a designer, even after such a long time, whatever I do, I kind of work with the same principles unconsciously and that’s the DNA of the house.
Radhika’s pre-wedding lehenga was exquisite that featured intricate mirror works. What was the inspiration behind that?
Radhika is from Kutch and I’m a Sindhi. So Kutch and Sindhis are very similar. For me, I’ve always grown up around multicolour outfits. She works with an amazing stylist, Rhea Kapoor Boolani. Radhika’s style has a very modern take and is never overdone or overmade and she’s a very princessly loving girl. Her style brings her own personality. Even at her pre-wedding ritual in Jamnagar, she kept her hair open; it was so natural and I think that was very cool.
How do you ensure that your creativity doesn’t stagnate?
I’m still creative because I love what I do. With so many possibilities that come my way, creativity doesn’t become an issue. I am always ready for the next thing that comes my way! I’m glad I can do what I love.
