Srinagar: Couturier Varun Bahl, presented his Couture Showcase, A Love Letter to Kashmir, in association with FICCI FLO Hyderabad at The Lalit Srinagar, Kashmir on September 12, 2023. The show was held in collaboration with Rambhajos Jewellers.
This is the first fashion showcase to happen in Kashmir, in nearly 40 years. The decision to choose Kashmir as a destination came naturally to Mr. Bahl and was determined by a force that drew Varun to his roots. Varun’s family hails from Kashmir, and his father grew up there. His love for Kashmir comes from his childhood spent amongst the beautiful nature, on Dal Lake, and exploring every part of the heavenly valley. Keeping his father’s love for Kashmir alive, Varun was thrilled to have this opportunity to pay an ode to him, through his designs.
This show acted as a testament to his love for exotic flowers, poetry, the romance of a stunning place like Kashmir and the pursuit of true love. Varun’s designs have always been inspired by romantic love songs and the nature around us, and this show is an ode to Kashmir, his own personal love song for a place he calls – Kashmir Meri Jaan. In its 22nd year, as one of the oldest Chapters, FLO Hyderabad Chapter represents 1000+ women of Telangana. FICCI FLO has, for over decades, been a beacon of inspiration in the realm of women’s empowerment and socio-economic advancement. The incredible work that FICCI FLO has undertaken has always aligned seamlessly with Varun’s values and aspirations.
Bahl has always believed that fashion is not merely about appearances but a powerful tool that can drive meaningful change. He has always been committed to celebrating individuality, fostering inclusivity, and promoting causes that uplift communities. It was this shared vision of creating a positive impact that also drew him towards FICCI FLO and this event. This once-in-a-lifetime occasion was made even more special, with the presence of celebrities Huma Qureshi and Saqib Saleem, who closed the couture showcase for Bahl. The sibling duo, who have always been close friends with Bahl, also hail from Kashmir and were the perfect fit for this historic occasion.
While Huma looked stunning in a Champagne Gold Bridal Lehenga, embroidered with sequins, bugle beads and dabka work, with a veil, Saqib looked dashing in a classic black sherwani set embroidered with intricate black cutdana, paired with solid black kurta and embellished trousers.
The House of Rambhajos specially curated a collection for the Couturier’s showcase. The collection was designed in line with the mood and aesthetic of Mr Bahl’s collection, as well as the otherworldly culture of Kashmir. With its exclusive collection of jewels, the brand brought together the rich diversity and splendour of Indian royal history, embracing its various hues and facets, to create heirloom quality regalia that can be passed on from generation to generation.

KR Desk