ABP Southern Rising Summit 2024 Fashion Designer Gaurang Shah On His Artistry And Storytelling Through Fashion

Gaurang Shah, known as the 'master of weaves', is renowned for his luxurious jamdani sarees and attire. A self-taught designer, he champions Indian textile art and empowers weavers.

Renowned fashion designer Gaurang Shah recently appeared as a guest speaker at ABP Network's 'Southern Rising Summit,' where he delved into the origins of his passion for fashion. He shared the inspiring journey of establishing his own store, driven by a desire to showcase India’s textile heritage. Shah recounted his travels across the country to source unique fabric pieces, learning firsthand about the rich diversity of textiles, textures, colors, and traditional weaving techniques from local artisans. His story highlighted the dedication to bringing the art of Indian weaves to the forefront of the global fashion industry.

Gaurang Shah About His Signature Fusion Style

Talking about his signature fusion style, Gaurang Shah says "I do fusion of different weaves. I can do handpaint textures on a different weave, I can do embroideries". 

In conversation with journalist Radhika Bajaj, designer Gaurang Shah talks about his signature fusion style, he says "I do fusion of different weaves. I can do handpaint textures on a different weave, I can do embroideries". 

The designer also addressed a common misconception: the idea that skilled weavers are in short supply. He noted that contrary to this belief, many weavers are indeed available, but they need consistent work and fresh ideas to sustain their craft. "Weavers are there, you need to give them work, you need to come up with ideas," Shah emphasised, challenging prevailing myths and advocating for a more proactive approach in preserving traditional craftsmanship.

Gaurang Shah About What Role Can South India Play In Reviving The Artforms

When asked about South India’s role in reviving traditional art forms, given the region’s rich heritage, Gaurang Shah responded "Most of the beaving sectors, what we call are all in South. Exactly the number of different techniques are in south. The innovation happens here. I am a Gujarati, but based in Hyderabad, and believe me, this is what I always I can't be moved out of here. This is where the creativity is there."

'After Me, My Brand Won't Go Forward', Says Fashion Designer Gaurang Shah

Fashion designer, Gaurang Shah, said, "I don't think the Gaurang Shah brand is going to move forward after me because I haven't found anyone second to me. I could not even find one person with the fire to work in handloom and to take it forward."

ABP Southern Rising Summit 2024 

ABP Network's much-awaited 'Southern Rising Summit' has returned with its second edition. This year's Southern Rising Summit, themed 'Coming of Age: Identity, Inspiration, Impact', is being held in Hyderabad on October 25. The summit will celebrate the political, cultural, economic, and social advances of the southern states with changemakers and visionaries from the New South and explore the region’s transformative journey towards a brighter future.

The Southern Rising Summit was first held in Chennai in 2023, when several speakers celebrated ideas that define South India. This time too the summit will explore the region's cultural, economic, and political advancements that have stood out and played a critical role in the nation's overall progress.