On a royal sojourn

Elaborate detailing

Artistic and royal, each of his outfits tells a story of its own. Designer Punit Balana works on intricate details and fabulous weaves to create dramatic impressions on fabric.

His forte lies in simple,  subtle yet intricate embroidery work that mesmerises his customers.  

In a conversation with Surupasree Sarmmah, Punit talks about his favourite collection, his most challenging creations and his latest collection.  

Where do you get your ideas from?
It can be anything that I experience on a daily basis. Architecture, nature, colours and mythological tales are some of my inspirations.

What do you keep in mind while designing a collection?
My works are wearable and very practical. Whenever I design a collection, I keep in mind the Indian body. My designs are not very modern but pretty conservative.

One trend that will never get out of fashion...
I feel long ‘anarkalis’ are timeless. It has a vibrant silhouette and is a beautifully structured garment.

What does designing mean to you?
Designing is what reflects one’s personality. It means creating something that others have not created. It is an amalgamation of passion and design.

One of your most favourite collections...
It has to be my last winter collection which was inspired by the Amer Fort. A lot of research went into making this line and I had to get it perfectly right. The Amer Fort really mesmerised me and I got a lot of appreciation for the collection.

What can one look for in a successful designer?
I believe that they are the ones who don’t follow trends blindly but create their own trends. Wearability and practicality are the priorities of such people.  

If not a designer...
I can’t see myself doing anything else (laughs).

Who is your muse?
My wife and sister. Both of them have guided me throughout my journey in
this field.

Apart from designing, what are you interests ?
I love listening to Sufi music.

Tell us about your latest collection...
The Spring-Summer collection is called ‘Syahi Darpan’, which is all about handblock printed outfits. The collection is inspired by the rich culture and heritage of Rajasthan.

Amer Fort and Sheesh Mahal are the biggest inspirations in this line.  The colour base is indigo and I have primarily used two summer fabrics — cotton and ‘chanderi’.