Prelude to the Festival of India

The Prelude to the Festival of India was held at the residence of the Ambassador of India, His Excellency Shri Birendra Nanda, on Tuesday, June 2. In a colorful evening of fashion organized by the Embassy of India and Femina Indonesia, renowned Indian designers Malini Ramani and Tarun Tahliani showcased their work to bring together artists, models and cultural connoisseurs from both India and Indonesia.In a successful, exclusive sale that preceded the runway show, one got a closer look at the two collections, while the designers busied themselves with photo shoots. Solid, earthy tones cut in contemporary (almost sophisticated hippie) styles seemed to dominate Malini’s hangers, and touches of genius—like a small hood on a black and gold, ankle-length dress belted lightly at the waist—added a wicked twist to her work.Tahiliani’s collection exhibited a wider array of colors and fabrics, and a more distinctly Indian style. Bright, intricately embroidered oranges and pinks cut into short blouses and long flowing skirts epitomized the modern take on traditional Indian costume. As the Ambassador of India welcomed his notable guests, and the Director of the JNICC, Mr. M.K. Singh announced the program for the evening, the prospective interaction of Indonesian and Indian cultures at the Prelude and the actual Festival of India in November was revealed in what promises to be an exciting celebration of fashion, music and art. The short runway show that followed, allowed the designers to work with Indonesian models and show off their pieces in the deepening Jakartan twilight.The evening had high dignitaries like Mrs. Meutia Farida Hatta Swasono, Minister for Women Empopwerment, Republic of Indonesia, Mr. Fauzi Bowo, H.E. the Governor of Jakarta, Mrs. Bowo, Ms. Mirinda Goeltam, Acting Governor of Bank Indonesia to boost its stature, and Gliteratti like designer, Harry Dorsono, Peter Sie, Iwan Tirta, Ghea Soekarsa joined with Ibu Pia Alisjahbana, Svida Alisjahbana and a horde of members of Indian community and Indonesians of Indian origin to add the contemporary bounce and agility. Malini and Tarun Tahliani will take home and work with Indonesian fabric over the next few months, while their counterparts in Indonesia Priyo Octiviano and Sebastian Goenawan will do the same with Indian fabrics after they make a reciprocal visit to India in July, 2009. The results of this exchange will be showcased in a fabulous fashion show on the inaugural day (11th November, 2009) of the “Jakarta Fashion Week” organized by Femina Indonesia for “Festival of India 2009” to be held from 16 October – 15th December, 2009.