I seek to align handloom with modern trends

SINCE its launch in 2013, Pranaah, a fashion label by actor Poornima Indrajith, has been making waves, and this year was no exception.

- PARVANA K B

One of its outfits — a Kerala handloom ensemble — was worn by Ananya Shanbhag for the biggest stage in Hollywood, the Oscars red carpet.

Following this milestone, Poornima sits down with TNIE for a quick chat about this success, the creative journey, Kerala's handloom industry, and her upcoming projects.

What inspired your design for Ananya at the Oscars?

In Pranaah, I work primarily in handlooms. I try to develop new concepts, introduce new patterns in the weaving process and make wearable fashion. When I work on red carpet looks, my goal is to represent the handloom while making sure the person wearing it feels confident. It should complement their age, the occasion, and the moment, making it memorable for them.

Most of the time, this happens through discussions with the client. But in Ananya's case, she completely entrusted me with the process. So, I gave her multiple options, showing different types of weaves within the handloom and different designs and patterns within kasavu itself. She was pleased with my offerings.