Following the wonder and appreciation for the inaugural parade at Art Mumbai last year, the second edition of the annual Tarun Tahiliani Parade celebrates India’s rich artistic heritage which has always been the foil against which the brand has presented its collections over the last three decades. Putting together performing arts from around the country and juxtaposing them with the work of the artisans through our ensembles, each act is not just a spectacle; it is an embodiment of India’s boundless spirit, where art, fashion, and tradition come together.
The second edition of the Tarun Tahiliani Parade transcends fashion; it is a celebration of culture and a testament to our heritage, fusing all our stories of textile, art, embroidery, tailoring, mythology and more across Couture, his recently launched luxury pret brand OTT as well as accessories and jewellery showcased in a larger-than-life tableau presentation
The parade opens with the majestic sight of a Pegasus, a symbol of virtue and limitless imagination. This mythic figure, bearing an apsara aloft, embodies the creative spirit that guides the studio. Together, they soar, lifting us into a realm where dreams and art blend seamlessly, inviting the audience into a world where anything is possible.
Drapes
From here the parade moves to the realm of Natraj, the cosmic dancer. This sequence showcases the evolving draped form, and its every twist and fold, intertwined with India’s historical relationship with textiles, capturing the dynamic energy of movement, evolution and grace which has become the hallmark of the brand. The garments here are sculptural and fluid, inspired by ancient Indian drapes. A 16-foot depiction of Natraj, lord of dance and eternal rhythm, stands as a powerful symbol of the cycle of creation and destruction, dissolving darkness to bring forth light.
The Bloom Collection
The procession then opens into Bloom, a poetic tribute to nature’s ephemeral beauty as showcased in the brands ongoing Bloom Collection. Inspired by flowers in full bloom, this section draws from the transient allure of petals, with delicate embroidery, pearls, and intricate threadwork. Keats' words ring true here: “A thing of beauty is a joy forever.” Each piece is crafted to honour nature’s fleeting charm, while encouraging a mindful approach to fashion that celebrates longevity and respect for the earth.
Crystals
The next sequence showcase yet another mainstay of the brand – the Crystal adorned pieces that capture the celestial wonder, inspired by mythical tales and the brilliance of starlit skies with dancers shimmering like constellations, evoking the magic of jugnus (fireflies) under the moonlight. Together, these intricate designs weave a story of light, mystery, and timeless heritage.
Pichwais
The journey then leads to Pichwai, a central pillar of the brand, reinterpreted through intricate embroidery and motifs. Traditionally, these devotional artworks create a mood of reverence behind the deity Krishna. The brand has infused new life into this art form, merging monochromatic elegance with subtle tonality, creating a modern narrative that honours ancient roots.
Thayyam
In a seamless transition, the parade pays homage to Thayyam, a revered ritual art form originating from North Kerala. This expressive tradition, blending dance, mime, and music, exalts tribal beliefs and honours heroes and ancestral spirits. Paired with this evocative performance, we present a palette of reds—from contemporary to bridal—showcasing techniques that intertwine the diverse cultures of India. Through textile and embroidery, we bring together Hindu and Islamic artistry in a fusion, that crafts a vision of contemporary bridalwear and ushers in new rituals for a modern age.
The Sari
Returning to the essence of our heritage, the parade features sari in its purest form, draped with a contemporary twist. These are spectacular weaves done by master craftsmen in Kanchipuram in asli zari, echoing our bloom chintz story and are paired with an unconventional blouse. The sari reclaims its role as the ultimate symbol of Indian heritage, grounding our parade in its origins while celebrating its evolving narrative. This ode to the sari is both a journey back to our roots and a reimagining of the textile as a canvas for modern expression.
OTT
As we near the finale, Nandi, Shiva’s sacred bull, takes the stage. Representing joy and devotion, this segment draws upon pichwai-inspired coats from Tarun Tahiliani and contemporary silhouettes such as bibs from our new luxury pret brand - OTT, giving fresh energy to tailored designs that balance heritage with innovation. The parade culminates in a powerful homage to India, as Vande Mataram fills the air. A stirring rendition by Isheeta Ganguly, intertwined with Tagore’s resonant words from “Where the Mind is Without Fear”. This final act is a tribute to our motherland, a land that has gifted us an incredible legacy of culture, craft, and meaning.
Tarun Tahiliani brings to you his synthesized vision emerging after years of cross-referencing all these worlds.
Words Paridhi Badgotri
Date 19.11.2024