US museum honours Indian woman designer

New Jersey, Oct 5 Acclaimed Mumbai designer Meera Mahadevia presented her latest collection of fashion and accessories, and was feted with a champagne reception at the Newark Museum in New Jersey Wednesday.

"More than a fashion show, it was showcasing India," Mahadevia told IANS about the event called 'India Chic' held in conjunction with the ongoing photo and video art exhibition titled 'India: Public Places, Private Spaces' at the museum.

The saris, handbags, jewellery and other accessories showcased at the event carried the quintessential stamp of "our country's craftsmanship, culture and heritage," Mahadevia said. "Each product represented the Indian aesthetic capsule in its concept and creation."

Mahadevia's collection was put on sale for a charity after the show.

The event, attended by about 250 people, included a traditional dance recital performed and choreographed by Mahadevia, who is a trained Bharatnatyam dancer. She also gave a talk on the challenges of being an Indian female entrepreneur.

"This event captures the spirit of Indian art, vibrant culture and international style," said Meme Omogbai, chief operating officer of the museum.

Mahadevia's exquisitely crafted handbags have been much sought after in boutiques in India and in many countries, earning her the epithet of 'bag lady'. Some of them have even been exhibited at the museum as artwork. But lately, she has started designing saris and dresses.

"Twenty years ago I started out as a fashion designer before moving into accessories," she said.