Tarun Tahiliani on celebrating heritage: ‘Hindus did textiles, Islam brought embroidery, the British brought tailoring’

Celebrated designer Tarun Tahiliani’s collection ‘Quintessence’ at India Couture Week 2025 was nothing short of mesmerising for its celebration of craft and opulence, while remaining understated in many ways. The front row saw many popular figures in attendance, including Shahnaz Husain, as the show marked his 30 years in the fashion industry.

Sharing a video of the collection, FDCI on its Instagram detailed, “Quintessence by Tarun Tahiliani is couture in its purest form. Refined, soulful, and timeless. A whisper of luxury, where craft meets emotion, and every detail speaks with intention. For those who want to feel light, present, and truly themselves.”

And indeed, the show celebrated India-themed couture brilliantly with its focus on both heritage and modernity. Speaking to NDTV, the designer revealed how Indian fashion has always been independent of Western influences. He proudly shared the timeless relevance and exclusivity of textiles, embroidery, and handmade works that existed in weaves such as Bandhani, Chikankari, and Mukaish.

Tahiliani has always taken it upon himself to keep traditions alive while marching forward and to live in a modern world celebrating heritage in every possible way. He told NDTV, "The motto of my company is 'All that we were and more.' So I always say Hindus did beautiful textiles, Islam brought embroidery, the British brought tailoring; and our generation mixes it all together. That is the process of evolution—the more you do, the more you learn, the more you can do. And it becomes more relevant, in a way.”

This year, the designer’s creation worn by Janhvi Kapoor at the Cannes Film Festival made headlines. Staying true to his word, it celebrated the crafts of India along with modern design sensibilities.