Patna: Renowned fashion designer Anju Modi visited the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Patna for a two-day engagement, marking a significant part of the institute’s National Handloom Day celebrations. Her visit provided students and industry professionals with invaluable insights into the world of traditional Indian crafts and sustainable fashion.
On August 6, Ms. Modi conducted an exclusive Master Class for NIFT Patna students. During the session, she shared details of her creative journey, her dedicated work in reviving India’s traditional crafts, and the evolving role of contemporary fashion designers. The class offered students a unique opportunity to learn from one of India’s most celebrated designers, exploring the dynamic interplay between heritage and innovation in fashion. Col. Rahul Sharma, Director of NIFT Patna, extended a warm welcome to Ms. Modi upon her arrival.
The following day, August 7, Ms. Modi participated in a panel discussion to commemorate National Handloom Day. The panel featured prominent figures such as Veena Upadhyaya (Bunkar Bihar), Akhilesh Kumar (weaver, Bawanbuti Craft, Nepura, Nalanda), Bhairab Lal Das (Convener, INTACH Patna Chapter), and Narendra Kumar (Secretary, Kushgram Khadi, Gopalganj), alongside other industry and craft experts. The discussion centered on the vital role of handloom in sustainable fashion, the challenges faced by artisan communities, and collaborative strategies for preserving India’s rich textile legacy. The session fostered a thoughtful dialogue on balancing cultural preservation with contemporary market demands.
Anju Modi is internationally acclaimed for her contributions to couture and cinema, particularly for her iconic costume designs in Bollywood films like Bajirao Mastani and Ram Leela. As a founding member of the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), she has been a strong advocate for handcrafted fashion and the empowerment of rural artisans. NIFT Patna expressed its honor in hosting Ms. Modi, whose presence brought together creativity, tradition, and visionary design for a truly inspiring celebration of Indian handlooms.
