Vikram Phadnis Reflects on His 35-Year Journey with His New Collection ‘Ananta’
In a career that beautifully bridges the worlds of fashion and film, Vikram Phadnis has continually redefined what it means to be a true creative force. As he celebrates 35 magnificent years in fashion, the designer unveils his latest collection, ‘Ananta’, a tribute to his enduring journey, rich heritage, and the infinite possibilities of design.
From Choreography to Couture — A Story of Passion and Perseverance
Before he became a household name in Indian couture, Vikram Phadnis began his artistic journey as a fashion choreographer. With no formal training in design, he relied purely on intuition, discipline, and an innate understanding of fabric and movement.
“I was originally a science student, studying medicine. But my time in choreography gave me discipline — a vital quality I carried into fashion design,” he recalls. This unorthodox path gave rise to a self-taught visionary, whose instinct for texture, silhouette, and drama transformed him into one of India’s most respected couturiers.
A Cinematic Legacy Woven in Fabric
Phadnis’ legacy is closely intertwined with Bollywood’s golden era, where his costume designs shaped the visual language of over 25 films — from Biwi No. 1 and Mujhse Shaadi Karogi to Salaam-e-Ishq and Aitraaz.
“The man who truly made me was Salman Khan,” he fondly shares. “He gave me my professional identity and opened doors I never imagined.”
His collaboration with Salman Khan marked a turning point, establishing him as the go-to designer for cinematic glamour. Yet, his approach was never just about costumes — it was about telling stories through cloth, color, and character.
Ananta: A Celebration of Infinity
To mark this remarkable milestone, Phadnis presents ‘Ananta’, a collection that revisits his artistic archives while embracing modern sensibilities.
“Ananta means infinite,” he explains. “The collection showcases several archival pieces, reinterpreted in a fresh style and format. Expect muted earthy tones, blacks, ivories, and a dramatic finale in deep reds and maroons.”
Crafted with intricate aari, zardosi, and threadwork, Ananta features a refined mix of structured yet fluid silhouettes, from lehengas and saris to contemporary capes. Each piece narrates a story — not just of fashion, but of evolution.
A Grand Celebration in Mumbai
The grand preview of Ananta will take place on October 14, 2025, in Mumbai, with 100 models walking the ramp in both men’s and women’s ensembles. “The show is designed to feel like a celebration among friends — a reflection of 35 years of memories, growth, and gratitude,” says the designer.
The event promises a vintage-inspired theme, inviting those who have been instrumental in his journey — from his early days to his global recognition.
A New Chapter: From Runway to Reel
Beyond fashion, Vikram Phadnis continues to explore storytelling through cinema. His Marathi directorials, Hrudayantar (2017) and Smile Please (2019), were met with critical acclaim, the latter even earning the 57th Maharashtra State Film Award.
Now, as he prepares to remake Smile Please in Hindi, Vikram is set to make his directorial debut in Bollywood, bringing his full-circle journey to life. “Life’s come full circle,” he says with a smile. “This new project represents a fresh perspective and a new chapter.”
Vikram Phadnis’ story is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless creativity — an inspiring reminder that artistry knows no boundaries. As Ananta takes center stage, it celebrates not only his timeless craft but also the infinite spirit that continues to define his legacy.
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