Celebrating 40 Years of Indian Couture: Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla's Grand Event
A Night of Glamour and Legacy
The illustrious journey of designers Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla was celebrated in style as they marked four decades in the fashion industry. The event took place at their expansive new flagship location, Mubarak Baug, which spans 20,000 square feet, attracting a diverse mix of celebrities, models, and socialites.
This milestone gathering was not just a star-studded affair; it highlighted the remarkable design legacy that Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla have cultivated over the years. The duo has been a strong advocate for India's rich artisanal heritage, skillfully blending traditional techniques like Chikankari, Zardozi, Resham embroidery, and mirror work into contemporary fashion.
Fashion Highlights of the Evening
Who wore what
Bollywood actor Dimple Kapadia poses for photographs during Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla’s exclusive event. (PTI Photo)
Dimple Kapadia showcased timeless elegance in an embroidered saree paired with a jacket and a pearl necklace from the designers' jewelry collection. Navya Naveli Nanda dazzled in a shimmering gold mini dress, while Sonam Kapoor Ahuja made a statement in a stunning white-and-gold anarkali, accessorized with bold earrings.
The Ambani family turned heads with their exquisite outfits. Nita Ambani was radiant in a vibrant red saree, while Isha Ambani opted for a striking silver-and-white couture piece adorned with sequins and intricate embroidery, complemented by a statement necklace. Shloka Ambani chose a refined ivory-and-gold ensemble, featuring a delicately embroidered top and a flowing white skirt with a broad gold border. Radhika Ambani embraced a captivating white-and-purple outfit embellished with floral embroidery.
Veteran actress Asha Parekh looked graceful in a pastel saree adorned with emerald jewels, and Madhoo Shah wore a vintage piece from her wedding trousseau designed by the duo three decades ago.
A Nostalgic Runway
Bollywood actors Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal . PTI Photo
Ali Fazal and Richa Chadha opted for relaxed, casual outfits, diverging from the glamorous dress code of the evening. They were joined by Orry, who sported a vibrant orange shirt with matching polka-dot trousers and sneakers.
The runway also featured a nostalgic touch, with several models from the 1990s, including Rakshanda Khan, Rahul Dev, Diandra Soares, and Carol Gracias, making a comeback, adding a celebratory vibe to the event. Models Natasa Stankovic and Aleksandar Alex Ili appeared in luxurious black-and-silver outfits, enhancing the evening's dramatic atmosphere.
For Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla, this 40-year milestone is not just about endurance but also a testament to a design philosophy that remains deeply rooted in India's craft traditions.
The Journey of Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla
40 years of AbuJabi – Sandeep Khosla
Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla, despite their different backgrounds, share a profound love for design. Abu, hailing from Mumbai, initially pursued art before transitioning to fashion, training under designer Xerxes Bhathena and gaining experience in garment exports. Sandeep, from Kapurthala, studied at The Doon School and briefly worked in his family's leather business before launching his own label, Limelight, in Delhi.
Their paths crossed in 1986 through a mutual friend, leading to a partnership that began with their first collection, Mata Hari. The duo has since made traditional Indian craftsmanship their hallmark, particularly reviving Chikankari while incorporating Zardozi, mirror work, and Resham embroidery into their luxurious couture. Their creations have graced Bollywood stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Sonam Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Deepika Padukone, as well as international celebrities such as Beyoncé, Judi Dench, and Gigi Hadid. Their creative influence has also expanded into interior design, weddings, and events.