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Time of India
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Gara Met Gala: How a Parsi heirloom went from auntywear to blue carpet
Once tucked away in family trunks, the intricately embroidered sari is finding a second life on global red carpets, courtesy a new generation of revivalists We're all a bit nostalgic these days. The young romanticising eras they never lived through. The old convinced things were better back then. No surprise then that throwbacks and heirlooms are having their moment. None more so than the Parsi Gara sari after fashionista Natasha Poonawalla sashayed down the Met Gala carpet in a dramatic fishtail made by Manish Malhotra from two vintage Garas and Nita Ambani wrapped herself in its fine threadwork at Harvard India Conference. And just like that, this slumbering textile legacy stirred back into the spotlight. 'When Natasha wore Gara at the Met, of course, we were upset it wasn't one of our pieces,' laughs textile designer Ashdeen Lilaowala, 'but the craft got an international platform. What matters more is that people are talking about it.'The revival of the Parsi Gara isn't just about celebrity cameos but about people like Lilaowalla who are keeping the art of this ancient embroidery alive. And not just among Parsis. 'Eighty percent of our clientele is non-Parsi,' he says. Long before its red-carpet outings, the Parsi Gara had already racked up mileage. As trade grew between Canton and Bombay in the 18th and 19th centuries, Parsi merchants brought back embroidered silks from China. One story goes that a trader asked a Chinese artisan to embroider six yards of silk as a sari for his wife back home. Those early Garas weren't saris in the typical sense. Just rectangular panels without pallus or borders. It was Parsi women who transformed them and draped them with pleats to the right, pallu trailing low, and a peek of white lace. The enclosed field or 'gala' in Gujarati gave the Gara its name. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 2025 Top Trending local enterprise accounting software [Click Here] Esseps Learn More Undo In Bharuch, elderly Parsis still recall the Chinese traders who cycled in with bundles of Garas sold by the kilo and taught embroidery techniques to Parsi women in exchange for chai. Designer Zenobia Davar adds a colourful footnote: 'It's said, wealthy Parsis would often gift them to their wives and mistresses,' she says. 'Sometimes, the mistresses received more lavish pieces than the wives leading to a fierce competition over who had the finest Gara!' The stories stitched into Parsi Garas also carried their own whimsy. A spinning motif was called karolia (spider), clustered dots were 'kanda-papeta' (onion-potato), a rooster-hen pattern became 'marga-margi' and 'China-Chini,' a Chinese man and woman. Some even had pagodas, bridges, steam engines and boats. Nature motifs were common as Zoroastrianism is a nature-revering religion, says Shernaz Cama , founder of the Unesco-backed Parzor Crafts in Delhi which has worked for decades to document and revive Parsi embroidery. 'Birds, flowers, gardens weren't just motifs. Every cluster of peonies or birds of paradise was a prayer disguised as pattern.' But as fashion changed, so did the Gara's fate. 'With tastes shifting to figure-hugging chiffons on one side and the khadi movement on the other, the silk Gara went out of fashion.' It wasn't just trends, says Cama. 'Women skilled in embroidery moved into office jobs.' Lilaowala traces its decline to 'geopolitical reasons'. The Communist movement in China disrupted supply chains and as India leaned into the swadeshi movement, elaborate saris felt out of place. Davar calls the 1970s the tipping point. 'With industrialisation, powerlooms replaced handlooms and we lost not just fabrics, but also lost weavers. Some even traded authentic Garas for aluminium vessels.' And so, the Gara retreated into family trunks and was worn mostly on Navroz, in agyaris (fire temples) and studio portraits. Until revival began almost instinctively. For Davar, the moment came when she received two authentic Garas at her wedding. 'It changed me. I felt a deep responsibility to honour and protect this heritage.' Nearly 25 years on, her studio specialises in handcrafted Gara spanning saris, bridalwear, children's clothes, accessories, and home decor. 'We created art that could live closer to people — frames for homes, coin purses, spectacle cases, and cushion covers.' In 2014, UK's Cherie Blair took home one of Davar's embroidered frames to hang in her London office. But Davar's 'proudest moment' she says is crafting 'The Forbidden Stitch' for Nita Ambani — a technique once reserved for Chinese nobility. 'It was so minute and painstaking that artisans would often develop cataracts. Today, we've revived it. Our artisans work under optimal lighting, take breaks and never stitch more than two hours a day, preserving both their eyesight and sanctity of the work.' Lilaowala's journey began with research. 'After graduating, I travelled to China, India and Iran to trace motifs,' he says. In family collections across regions, he began spotting familiar patterns. 'That helped build a repertoire of what Parsi Gara is.' When he launched his label in 2012, it wasn't just to recreate heirlooms. 'I wanted to make something a young woman could appreciate and wear today without needing to know its history first.' But sustaining a slow craft in a fast world isn't easy. 'Each motif takes years of training to perfect,' says Davar. 'A single embroidered sari takes anywhere from three to 18 months.' But time isn't the only cost. 'The biggest roadblock is the price of an authentic Gara,' says Cama. 'Which is why we've tried to tailor the work to fit the purse. The other challenge is that the Parsi women who carry memory no longer want to pursue it professionally. How do we remember the stories and symbols, then?' Davar points to another threat. 'Machine-made pieces that mimic the surface look of a Gara but lack the soul of hand craftsmanship.' Still, there's hope. Parzor, for instance, has trained a cohort ranging from SEWA-trained women in Ahmedabad to Parsi families in Navsari and master craftsmen in Delhi to keep what they call 'a unique multicultural tradition' alive. Lilaowala is determined to change the perception that Garas are 'something aunties wear'. He embroiders Gara onto Kanjivarams, Bandhanis, men's waistcoats and even creates handpainted prints. Not everyone approves. 'After I wove a Gara into a Benarasi, a textile historian told me, 'You've killed the craft! Now it'll be copied in China',' he laughs. 'But you have to see Gara with fresh eyes.'
NDTV
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Natasha Poonawalla Shines Bright At Cannes 2025 In A Balenciaga Gold Foil Gown
It is Natasha Poonawalla's world, and we are all just living in it. The business tycoon and fashion force is currently making waves at the 78th Annual Cannes Film Festival. Post turning heads dressed in an archival Dior ensemble, Natasha is now dazzling fans with a gold statement that oozes luxury and power. Also Read: Inside Natasha Poonawalla's White Christmas In Lapland Natasha Poonawalla recently attended the amfAR Gala at Cannes 2025. The ultra-exclusive soiree was held at the legendary Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Cap d'Antibes, France. While the event was packed with several celebrities, Natasha's sartorial presence was impossible to overlook. The diva wore a gilded gold foil gown from Balenciaga's Resort 2025 collection which was a true vision in metallic hues. The dress hugged her bust and torso before flowing into a subtle flare waist downwards. With its tiered details cascading down and a dramatic train following her around, the gown defined high fashion at its finest. The off-shoulder neckline of the ensemble added a modern edge, while the texture and sheen of the fabric made the entire look feel like a wearable piece of art. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Natasha Poonawalla (@ Natasha Poonawalla's accessories of the day were equally impressive. She paired the golden look with oversized black earrings and statement black sunglasses and huge diamond ring that sparkled adorned on her finger. but what really turned heads was the sleek black Balenciaga tumbler she carried which made for a stylish and on-trend Stanley inspired switch from a traditional clutch. Completing the ensemble were a pair of black stilettos that added a few extra inches to the fashion icon's already impressive stature. Natasha's beauty game, crafted by celebrity makeup artist Valeria Ferreira, was both polished and glamorous. She went with glossy pink lips, softly blushed cheeks and an ample amount of highlighter added to the highpoints of her face. A sharp winged liner brought focus to her eyes which were enhanced by fluttery lashes and well-defined brows. Her hair was kept simple in a salon style blown out, middle-parted style that allowed her outfit do all the talking. In Natasha Poonawalla's signature style, her Cannes 2025 look was the gold standard of high fashion.
News18
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Natasha Poonawalla Just Turned Herself Into A Gift At Cannes
Last Updated: For her appearance at the amfAR gala at Cannes, Natasha Poonawalla dressed head to toe in Balenciaga. After delivering some striking looks at the Met Gala in New York earlier this month, philanthropist and businesswoman Natasha Poonawalla is currently in Cannes. Recently, the Executive Director of the Serum Institute of India and the chairperson of the Villoo Poonawalla Foundation attended the amfAR gala that was held at the Cannes Film Festival. For her appearance at the event, she opted for a head-turning gold look by Balenciaga. Taking to her Instagram, Natasha Poonawalla shared a series of pictures of herself in her gold ensemble. The pictures showed her striking some stunning poses on the terrace with the French Riviera in the background. In other pictures, she was seen lying down on a white couch. She also included pictures from the amfAR dinner. Sharing these pictures, she wrote, 'Wake up and Show up!" Take a closer look at Natasha's OOTD here. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Natasha Poonawalla (@ For her appearance at the amfAR gala, Natasha opted for a statement strapless gold dress from Balenciaga. The strapless number was originally a part of the brand's Resort 2025 look. The sleeveless dress mimicked gold foil gift packaging, and it was a statement in itself. The gown came with a fitted bodice that was balanced by the voluminous details that mimicked a crushed gold packaging. It also came with a train that grazed the floor. Natasha paired this dress with Balenciaga's 9 AM clutch that looked like an on-the-go coffee cup. The philanthropist slipped into a pair of black pointed toe heels by Balenciaga. For the glam, Natasha went with a flawlessly matte base. She defined her eyes with a soft brown smokey eye look. She added a winged eyeliner and mascara to accentuate her eyes further. She contoured her face to highlight her sharp features. She added a muted brown shade on her lips and completed her look by leaving her hair open. First Published: May 24, 2025, 09:42 IST
Time of India
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Cannes 2025: Natasha Poonawalla is the unparalleled queen of avant-garde in Dior couture with maximalist jewels
(Image Credits: Instagram) After giving us the iconic Parsi Gara saree from Manish Malhotra's couture at the MET Gala 2025, Natasha Poonawalla is back on the international fashion carpet with another exaggerated look. Acting as the vanguard of maximalism, this fashion connoisseur knows how to fashionably carry high-end outfits with effortless elegance and grace. Unafraid of public opinion, she always gets it right with her fashion notes, making the wait worth it. Walking arm in arm with Bollywood director Karan Johar on the Cannes venue premises, for a moment, she outshone everyone on the floor and proved that she was only there to slay. Putting tonnes of creativity, thought, and expertise into her fits, she showed up in an alluring Christian Dior vintage gown. (Image Credits: Instagram) Ditching the usual ball gowns with long trains and ruffles, she picked up a 2002 archival Dior piece, which left us absolutely mesmerised. Keeping up with the fashion rules and themes of Cannes 2025 , the full-length gown featured stunning tailored detailing with a halterneck sweetheart neckline charm. Proudly showing off the 2000s off-shoulder drama, the puffy sleeves swiftly cascaded to her arms and matched the ruched aura on her midriff. The geometric pattern right beneath her bosom came in with intricate embellishments with cut-dana beading in botanical motifs with a pleated, flowy skirt that came in with a scalloped hemline. (Image Credits: Instagram) Layering up the look with a Dior golden fur jacket with geometric patterns and floral shine, she fashionably slung the jacket over her shoulders and created a head-turning moment. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với sàn môi giới tin cậy IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo Quickly elevating her ensemble with an Indian touch, she adds a pop of colour in a large pear-shaped red stone Maharani haar with green kundan, tucked in pearls, and intricate embellishments. However, her luxury charm did not stop there, as she carried a French-based haute couture bag from Jean Paul's collection and opted for a salmon pink statement clutch. Keeping her makeup minimal, she sported a side-swept, gelled-up bun hairstyle with a dazzling pair of sunglasses. Creating a perfect contemporary look with over-the-top styling, she always mingles with the crème de la crème of fashion, serving some jaw-dropping looks in the past years. 10 Indian saris every woman should have in her wardrobe One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Hans India
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hans India
Natasha Poonawalla Dazzles at Cannes 2025 in Vintage Dior and Regal Indian Jewels Natasha Poonawalla Dazzles at Cannes 2025 in Vintage Dior and Regal Indian Jewels
Natasha Poonawalla made a striking impression at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, blending high fashion with Indian heritage. Walking alongside filmmaker Karan Johar, she once again showcased her penchant for avant-garde style. Known for her fearless fashion choices at major global events like the MET Gala, Natasha's Cannes look continued her streak of sartorial brilliance. Vintage Dior Meets Indian Opulence This time, Poonawalla embraced subtle sophistication by wearing a vintage creation from Christian Dior's Spring 2002 collection. The gown, chosen by her styling team, reflected Y2K aesthetics with a contemporary flair. Featuring sheer mesh, delicate ruching, and a flattering silhouette, the black dress carried the essence of early 2000s elegance. Its standout features included a sweetheart halterneck neckline, dramatic off-shoulder puffed sleeves, and a beautifully ruched bodice that flowed into a graceful skirt. A geometric embroidered panel beneath the bust, adorned with vibrant cut-dana floral embellishments, added visual richness, while the scalloped hemline, highlighted with fine beadwork, offered a couture-level finish. Statement Outerwear with a Twist Adding a luxurious layer, Natasha wore a gold Dior fur jacket with intricate floral and geometric embroidery. The hem featured pastel colour-block details, offering a fresh, whimsical contrast to the otherwise monochrome ensemble. Jewellery That Celebrates Indian Craft Bringing her signature Indo-western fusion to life, Natasha elevated her look with a traditional rani haar—a regal necklace crafted with red and green kundan stones, pearls, and ornate pear-shaped red drops. She completed the look with a striking kundan ring, weaving Indian craftsmanship into her European couture ensemble. Accessories and Beauty: Understated Yet Elegant To complement the grandeur of her gown and jewellery, Natasha carried a salmon pink Jean Paul knuckle clutch, adding a hint of modern flair. Her makeup remained minimal, featuring a dewy base, sculpted contours, and sleek side-parted hair pulled into a neat bun, ensuring her outfit remained the focal point. A Fashion Fusion Masterclass Natasha Poonawalla's Cannes 2025 appearance served as a powerful reminder that fashion can be a bridge between cultures. Her fusion of vintage French haute couture and Indian royal elegance delivered a look that was both timeless and trailblazing—cementing her status as a true global fashion icon.
