A FUSION OF TRADITION AND MODERNITY

Known for his contemporary and innovative designs rooted in traditional Indian craftsmanship, Bikaner-born Punit Balana's creations often reflect the rich cultural heritage of his home state, Rajasthan. Today, his eponymous label is a name to be reckoned with in the fashion industry.

- Karan Nangia

With wider acceptance, increased disposable income, more women joining the workforce, the transformation of traditional clothing to modern design, the Indian ethnic wear market has grown, and as a result has spawned several brands and designers over the past few years. Among the fleet of fashion designers is Bikanerborn Punit Balana who started his fashion journey almost 22 years ago. Known for his contemporary and innovative designs rooted in traditional Indian craftsmanship, his creations often reflect the rich cultural heritage of his home state, Rajasthan.

The beginning

The arts graduate showed no interest in his father's plaster of paris business, and always thought of textile and fashion. "I started working in 2001 and moved to Jaipur in 2007. I used to be fascinated by any sort of fashion trend, even movies, and always wanted to create something new and have done block printing all my life. I am a fashion freak and the city of Jaipur and its craftsmanship inspire me immensely," says Balana.

He launched the eponymous brand in 2015, and the same year its first 1,200 sq ft store was opened at Jaipur's Civil Lines with the collection called Shahi Darpan. The second 1,250 sq ft store was launched in 2019 at Mumbai's Kala Ghoda with another collection, Ravari, which is still, he says, one of my most successful collections. He has showcased his collections at prestigious fashion events and platforms in India, including Lakme Fashion Week and India Couture Week and has a strong connection with Bollywood.

Rise in fashion industry