Designer Prabal Gurung reflects on tough childhood, resilience and runway success in a new memoir

CNA

13-05-2025

Part of Gurung's story is being a proud immigrant, and his connection to his Nepali roots come through in his designs. Indian-born American designer Bibhu Mohapatra has been friends with Gurung since they were both starting out, bonding over their South Asian roots. He says Gurung is 'naturally curious' and has always been a great storyteller.
'Whether he's doing a jewellery collection, whether it's a piece of clothing or a whole collection, it's always sort of backed by receipts of his experiences that are his tools of telling a story … whether about craft, whether it's about colour, whether it's about his heritage, or simply people in his life, the designer said. 'You believe it because it comes from a very authentic place.'
Mohapatra also admires Gurung's 'naturally rebellious streak' and his courage to speak out for causes he values.
'He's brave to be the first one or join the force with people who are starting a movement,' the designer said.
Mohapatra also suggests Gurung's spiritual side and roots add to his work and his ability to empathise: 'There is an aspect of slowing down, really attention to the core and looking back at the path and … there is a bit more spirituality woven into the daily lives of people of Nepal.'
Gurung says he hopes the book resonates with readers and encourages them to share their own stories.
'I want people to really understand that their existence, their story is worthy of being told, that they don't have to hide themselves, they're no longer invisible,' he said. 'I know I'm on the cover, it's my name and my story, but it really is a story about, for, and of so many people.'