THE MAESTRO OF FASHION

From the historical city of Allahabad to the bustling heart of Mumbai's fashion scene, Rohit Verma's evolution is both inspiring and transformative.

- -PW, Nihita Anand,

Born into an engineering household, he defied years of familial pressure to pursue a career in design. In 1996, he left his hometown with little more than talent, tenacity, and hope—now standing as one of India's most influential designers. His vibrant creations, championing women's empowerment and LGBTQ+ visibility, reflect both his Indian heritage and bold creative spirit.

Your journey: From Allahabad to Mumbai, tell us about your beginnings.

I was born and raised in Allahabad, into a family of engineers. My father had high hopes that I'd follow the same path—technical services or engineering. But my heart pulled me toward creativity. That spark couldn't be ignored. In 1996, I packed my dreams and came to Bombay—the city of endless possibilities. That's where my fashion journey began.

Did achieving national recognition ever cross your mind?

I never thought I'd become a top fashion designer. Still, even before I began, I felt an inner fire—ambition and self-belief. I've always been driven, and I held onto that spark as I climbed, step by step.

Overcoming Challenges: Vision and Faith, what hurdles did you face, and what sustained you?

Everyone encounters challenges. My clarity of vision, honesty, and faith in Lord Krishna gave me courage. Despite setbacks, I believed in what I was doing—and that unwavering conviction became my strongest ally.

Where do you find your creative muse?