MASTER OF INDIAN MINIMALISM

Anamm Inamdar in conversation with Rajesh Pratap Singh on his journey and his unique take on timelessness in fashion

- Anamm Inamdar

In the vibrant realm of Indian fashion, Rajesh Pratap Singh emerges as a luminary whose story captivates with its depth and authenticity. Fondly known as Pratap, today, even his eponymous label has been shortened to reflect his minimalist signature. Hailing from the culturally rich city of Jaipur, he was immersed in a world of textiles where he found inspiration in the artistry surrounding him. His fascination with textiles was nurtured by family influences, particularly a cousin involved in garment making, and he idolised figures like John and Faith Singh, who pioneered the Anokhi brand. Their influence ignited a spark within him—a realisation that fashion could be a medium for storytelling.

ORIGIN STORY

While his studies were rooted in commerce, Pratap interned under Martand ‘Mapu’ Singh who researched, curated and promoted traditional Indian textiles through various exhibitions, and David Abraham of the brand Abraham & Thakore. This exposure to the world of garments and mentorship by these visionaries urged him to take a leap into the world of design. Pratap went on to pursue formal design education at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), where he honed his skills and developed a unique aesthetic that would come to define his brand.