India at Louis Vuitton's SS26: AR Rahman releases exclusive track, Bijoy Jain debuts life-size Snakes & Ladders set
Pharrell Williams' Spring/Summer 2026 menswear line for Louis Vuitton was more than just a fashion show. Inspired by the subtle sartorialism of India, the show was a masterclass in respectful representation. Held at the Place Georges Pompidou in Paris, Pharrell's vision transformed the venue into a vivid celebration of modern Indian imagination, with textiles, music, and architecture all infused with the subcontinent's veritable soul. AR Rahman with Pharrell Williams; Bijoy Jain in LV
'You won't see any tunics or anything like that. What we were inspired by from India were the colours,' Pharrell clarified backstage, steering clear of clichés while leaning into authenticity. 'You'll see turmeric in the line. You'll see cinnamon. You'll see 'coffee indigo' denim.'
That sense of intention extended beyond the palette. Pharrell immersed himself in India's textile traditions during his trip, sourcing from local markets and artisans. 'What art and painting is to Paris, textiles and embroidery is to India,' he said. 'The intricacies were just off the charts.' The life-sized Snakes and Ladders rendition
A key visual anchor of the show was the spectacular set — a surreal, life-sized Snakes and Ladders board conceived by Indian architect Bijoy Jain of Studio Mumbai. Louis Vuitton described it as a 'metaphorical construct of possibility,' turning the venue into a giant playground. Introducing AR Rahman x LV
The soundtrack, too, struck an unmistakably Indian chord. Oscar-winner AR Rahman made a surprise appearance, unveiling a new track titled Yaara, co-created with Pharrell himself. The unreleased piece premiered on the runway, blending Rahman's unmistakable sonic texture with Pharrell's genre-defying aesthetic. Their camaraderie was visible backstage — smiles, snapshots, and a shared moment later posted to Rahman's 8.3 million Instagram followers.
For Pharrell, this was more than a themed collection — it was a respectful ode. 'I always move in gratitude, so I went there with gratitude, I left with gratitude, and I am here, remotely, again saying 'thank you' because I've really appreciated not only my experience, but the influence that it's had on the world,' he said.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hindustan Times
28 minutes ago
- Hindustan Times
Shikhar Dhawan ready to publish his autobiography? ‘Won't be just another sports memoir'
Is former India batter Shikhar Dhawan ready to come up with his autobiography? Hindustan Times has exclusively accessed details from the close quarters of Dhawan that indicate a new step in the former opener's life. An image, shared with HT, shows Dhawan relaxed at home, holding what appears to be a manuscript or a pre-publication proof — its title obscured, though clues suggest a possible literary collaboration. Former India batter Shikhar Dhawan might release his autobiography soon(HT Photo) Industry insiders now believe that Dhawan could be gearing up to release his autobiography, potentially under the banner of publishing giant HarperCollins. While no formal announcement has been made either by the cricketer or the publisher, sources familiar with the matter hint that this might be a deeply personal project, chronicling Dhawan's career, setbacks, and triumphs — on and off the field. 'This is not just another sports memoir,' said a source close to the development. 'If it is indeed what we believe it is, this book could be Dhawan's way of reflecting on his journey — from the cricket fields of Delhi to global stardom.' Representatives of both Dhawan and HarperCollins have yet to issue official statements. However, the buzz has now reached fans and publishing circles alike, with many awaiting confirmation of what could be an engaging read. Shikhar Dhawan: A Stellar Career in Indian Cricket and the IPL Dhawan, affectionately known as "Gabbar" in cricketing circles, was a mainstay in Indian cricket for a decade. He first made headlines with a record-breaking 187 on his Test debut against Australia in 2013 — the fastest debut century in Test history at the time. In ODIs, Dhawan became a cornerstone of India's top order, forming a formidable partnership with Rohit Sharma. Known for his aggressive stroke play and consistency, he was the highest run-scorer in the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy, which India won. He continued this form in the 2015 and 2019 World Cups, proving himself on the biggest stages. Dhawan has scored more than 6,000 runs in ODIs with 17 centuries, and over 2,000 T20I runs. Injuries and team dynamics saw his role fluctuate in later years, but his contribution remained undeniable. In the IPL, Dhawan has been one of the league's most consistent performers. He is among the top five all-time highest run-scorers in the tournament's history. He has been admired for his adaptability and leadership, representing franchises like Delhi Capitals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and most recently, Punjab Kings.
Time of India
29 minutes ago
- Time of India
Zohran Mamdani's biggest victory? From pestering Mira Nair to cast Kal Penn to winning NYC's mayoral primary
(L-R) Zohran Kwame Mamdani with his parents Director Mira Nair, and Mahmood Mamdani (PTI Photo) In a sweeping upset, Indian-American lawmaker Zohran Kwame Mamdani has won the Democratic primary for New York City Mayor, defeating political heavyweight and former governor Andrew Cuomo. But long before Mamdani was hailed as a rising political star with Bernie Sanders in his corner and a grassroots campaign that shook the establishment, he was just a teenager begging his mother, acclaimed filmmaker Mira Nair , for a favor, to meet Kal Penn . When The Namesake found its Gogol The year was 2005. Mira Nair had just acquired the rights to Jhumpa Lahiri's The Namesake. Kal Penn, born Kalpen Suresh Modi, best known at the time for stoner comedy Harold & Kumar Go To White Castle, was desperate to audition. He wanted to land the role of Gogol Ganguli, a character whose struggles mirrored his own, born to Indian immigrant parents, bilingual, and navigating identity in America. But it wasn't just the character he related to. Penn actively chased the project, even trying to acquire the rights to the novel before learning Mira Nair already had them. A son, a phone, and some persistence But it wasn't Hollywood agents or industry insiders who opened the door. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Ductless Air Conditioners Are Selling Like Crazy [See Why] Keep Cool Click Here Undo It was Zohran Mamdani, a teen with a plan and a phone. 'I started calling her office nonstop,' Kal Penn once recalled. 'Eventually Mira gave in, apparently because her son Zohran and his friend Sam were obsessed with Harold & Kumar,' Penn later admitted in an interview. The rest, as they say, is history. Penn landed the lead role of Gogol Ganguli, and The Namesake went on to become one of the most defining South Asian diaspora films in Hollywood. From fanboy to front-runner Now, two decades later, Zohran Mamdani has gone from film-nerd teen to the Democratic nominee for New York City Mayor. That early influence shaped Zohran's sense of conviction, a quality that has defined his political career. A childhood shaped by culture and conviction Born in Kampala, Uganda in 1991, Mamdani moved to New York at age 7 with his mother, Mira Nair, and father Mahmood Mamdani, a noted Ugandan academic of Indian origin. As a State Assemblyman from Queens and democratic socialist, Mamdani led hunger strikes with taxi drivers to secure $450 million in debt relief, fought for $100 million in subway funding, and launched a fare-free bus pilot. His mayoral campaign promises include a rent freeze for stabilized tenants, universal childcare for kids aged six weeks to five years, and a network of city-owned grocery stores focused on affordability. 'The cost of living is crushing working people,' his campaign site says. 'Zohran believes government can lower costs and make life easier.' His revenue plan is just as ambitious, raising the corporate tax rate to match New Jersey's 11.5%, taxing the top 1% of earners a flat 2%, and ending no-bid contracts to save billions more. 'New York is too expensive. Zohran will lower costs and make life easier,' the campaign declares. Progressive campaign earns a movement's backing Senator Bernie Sanders hailed Mamdani's win, saying, 'You took on the political, economic and media establishment, and you beat them.' At his victory party in Queens, Mamdani quoted Nelson Mandela, saying, 'It always seems impossible until it's done. My friends, it is done.' Even Cuomo, conceding with grace, said, 'Tonight is his night. He deserved it. He won.' The general election is scheduled for November 4, 2025. Until then, Mamdani's campaign will likely keep pushing boundaries, just as he once did when he helped Kal Penn land a career-defining role. His mother, Mira Nair, best known for films like Monsoon Wedding and Salaam Bombay!, once said that she looks for actors 'who live truthfully in the moment.' It's a description that might now apply to her son, a politician who refused to play it safe, challenged the old guard, and won.
Time of India
29 minutes ago
- Time of India
Mahhi Vij shares glimpses from her first trip with daughter Tara to London; writes ‘I've discovered a new me and learned so much…'
Actress Mahhi Vij recently shared glimpses from her first solo trip with daughter Tara — and it's nothing short of inspiring. Taking to social media, Mahhi poured her heart out about the special journey she took with her little one. 'London, you have my heart! This trip with my daughter was my first solo adventure, and we did it all on our own!' she wrote. From navigating the London Tube to walking over 10,000 steps daily, sampling local food, and riding commuter trains, Mahhi embraced every bit of the experience — not just as a tourist, but as a mother rediscovering herself. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mahhi Vinod Vij (@mahhivij) Married to television actor and host Jay Bhanushali , Mahhi often shares glimpses of their family life, and this trip marks a special chapter in her motherhood journey. 'I never knew this trip would make me so confident and happy. I've discovered a new me and learned so much while taking care of Tara,' she expressed. She went on to say, 'We've understood each other better, and it was a much-needed trip to explore and create unforgettable memories. London is a city of a thousand faces, each one a story waiting to be told. I too, have so many stories to unfold with Tara.' Ending her post with a life-affirming note, Mahhi wrote, 'The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo Life is short and unpredictable — just live the moment. Collect moments, not things.' For Mahhi, this London trip was more than a vacation — it was a milestone of love, growth, and priceless memories. She is known for her roles in popular television shows like Laagi Tujhse Lagan, Balika Vadhu, and her appearance with husband Jay Bhanushali on Nach Baliye.
