Latest news with #KALKI
News18
13-07-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Raja Kumari Launches Culture-Fueled Fashion Collab And 'LA INDIA' Music Video
Last Updated: Raja Kumari is setting a new global standard with her powerful new anthem 'LA INDIA' and a bold couture collaboration with KALKI. In a bold, genre-defying move, Grammy-nominated rapper, singer, and songwriter Raja Kumari has set the stage for a new era in global fashion and music. With the release of her anthemic track 'LA INDIA" and a striking couture collaboration with Indian fashion house KALKI, Kumari is not just pushing boundaries—she's redrawing the map of global Desi identity. The first Indian-origin artist to win an American Music Award, Raja Kumari has long been celebrated for fusing classical Indian influences with the pulse of contemporary hip-hop. But her latest endeavor goes beyond sound. It is a full-blown cultural movement, rooted in her South Asian heritage and propelled by a fearless global outlook. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Raja Kumari (@therajakumari) At the heart of this movement is LA INDIA, a reimagined track that pulses with pride and power. 'No matter where I'm from, they'll always know I'm Made in India," she declares—turning every lyric into a rallying cry for a generation straddling two worlds. The music video, conceptualized and co-directed by Kumari herself, transforms couture into storytelling—each outfit a visual exclamation of selfhood, sovereignty, and unapologetic glamour. But this is not just a star lending her name to fashion. Raja Kumari is a co-creator, shaping the collection's artistic and emotional language. From structured corseted gowns to fierce, rebellious lehengas in jewel tones and molten metallics, the pieces blur lines between heritage and futurism. Each design reimagines Indian luxury to be inclusive, empowering, and defiantly modern—championing visibility for every body type and woman. 'This collection is a celebration of identity, power, and heritage," Raja Kumari says. 'We've created something for the main characters, the rule-breakers, the glam goddesses. This is Desi luxury on a global frequency. I hope every woman who wears these pieces feels seen, celebrated, and unstoppable." What emerges from this powerful collaboration is more than a fashion line or a song—it's a cultural declaration, stitched with pride and rebellion, rhythm and elegance. It's a vision where music and fashion are not separate art forms, but mirrors that reflect the richness of lived experience and the fire of reinvention. As audiences across the globe continue to demand deeper representation and louder self-expression, Raja Kumari is leading from the front—merging couture with beats, identity with artistry, and Indian roots with a global reach. Catch the 'LA INDIA" music video and exclusive behind-the-scenes content across Raja Kumari's official platforms—and witness the rise of Desi luxury, redefined. view comments Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
The Wire
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Wire
KALKI Unveils Its Boldest Chapter Yet with Grammy-Nominated Artist Raja Kumari
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], July 11: When KALKI, one of India's beloved luxury fashion houses, joined hands with global music icon and unapologetic style force Raja Kumari, it wasn't just to design a capsule collection — it was to make a statement. The KALKI x Raja Kumari collaboration is a movement that shifts the rules of couture with a vision rooted in inclusivity, heritage, and high-voltage glamour. Launching on 11th July, this powerful partnership goes beyond fashion into music and message. For the collection, Raja Kumari has created a special version of her original track, LA INDIA — Spotify Link a sonic tribute to origin, identity, and global pride. The track has been reimagined exclusively for the KALKI x Raja Kumari collaboration, incorporating the collection's spirit into every beat. LA INDIA is a fierce anthem of being 'Made in India' and made for the world with lyrics that declare, 'No matter where I'm from, they'll always know I'm Made in India.' The message resonates deeply with the capsule's core themes - a celebration of cultural roots, a fearless, global-minded identity, and authentic storytelling that honours every shape, every presence, and every woman. Raja Kumari has also filmed a special music video in collaboration with KALKI, where she's seen wearing pieces from her co-created collection with KALKI. Born from a shared mission to create space where everybody belongs, this capsule reimagines Indian luxury fashion through a bold, modern, and unafraid lens. Raja Kumari, Grammy-nominated rapper, cultural disruptor, and icon of self-expression, steps into the role of co-creator, not a muse. She brings her global desi aesthetic, her signature fire, and her persistent belief that fashion must celebrate you, all of you. Together, KALKI and Raja Kumari present a capsule that bridges centuries of Indian artistry with the fearless energy of the world's runways. The silhouettes are fierce yet fluid, featuring corseted gowns with dramatic drapes, fusion saris enriched by capes and cuts, and lehengas that flirt with rebellion. This collection praises visibility at its root, for the woman who's always been the muse but never the sample size. Every design starts with body inclusivity as a non-negotiable - not an afterthought, not a checkbox, but a foundation. From sculpted velvets to liquid satins, from high-slit gowns to sheer overlays that glide like a second skin, each piece is tailored to empower, whether you're on stage, at a sangeet, or simply owning your presence. Visually, the collection stuns with deep jewel tones of oxblood, berry, and wine, representing mystery and opulence. Earthy neutrals and soft blushes ground the more dramatic silhouettes, while flashes of platinum and gold bring a futuristic shimmer. Signature elements such as thigh-high slits, statement sleeves, sculpted drapes, and jewelled bodices make it instantly red-carpet-ready. It clearly expresses that you don't have to shrink to fit into couture, but the couture should rise to meet you. But beyond the silhouettes and shimmer lies something more powerful: intention. Every thread, cut, and contour was designed to represent women in their fullness - culturally, emotionally, and physically. And in an industry long dominated by ideals that felt unreachable, the KALKI x Raja Kumari collection presents a bold alternative - fashion that fits, flatters, and frees. The capsule collection's price spans INR 40,000 – INR 70,000 and is available online at and KALKI's flagship stores. The brand's decision to price every piece equally, regardless of size, sets it apart even further because self-expression should never come with a premium. Talking about the collection, Raja Kumari shares, 'This collection is a celebration of identity, power, and heritage. We've created something for the main characters, the rule-breakers, the glam goddesses. This is Desi luxury on a global frequency. I hope every woman who wears these pieces feels seen, celebrated, and unstoppable.' KALKI's design team also backs the sentiment, stating, "With Raja Kumari, we were rethinking what luxury could feel like. This collection breaks moulds while honouring our roots. It's tradition with swagger, couture with a heartbeat.' In a world asking for louder individuality, deeper representation, and unapologetic beauty, KALKI x Raja Kumari resets the tone entirely. This isn't just a capsule collection. It's a cultural declaration. Now live online and in stores - explore the collection and stay tuned to our social media for more updates and behind-the-scenes moments. ABOUT KALKI KALKI is a premium Indian fashion brand that seamlessly fuses traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics. Headquartered in Mumbai, the brand specializes in bridal couture, occasion wear, and Indo-western ensembles, distinguished by intricate hand embroidery, luxurious textiles, and refined silhouettes. With a growing retail presence across India and international pop-ups, KALKI caters to a global clientele seeking modern interpretations of heritage fashion. (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PNN and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.).
India Gazette
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- India Gazette
KALKI Unveils Its Boldest Chapter Yet with Grammy-Nominated Artist Raja Kumari
HT Syndication Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], July 11: When KALKI, one of India's beloved luxury fashion houses, joined hands with global music icon and unapologetic style force Raja Kumari, it wasn't just to design a capsule collection -- it was to make a statement. The KALKI x Raja Kumari collaboration is a movement that shifts the rules of couture with a vision rooted in inclusivity, heritage, and high-voltage glamour. Launching on 11th July, this powerful partnership goes beyond fashion into music and message. For the collection, Raja Kumari has created a special version of her original track, LA INDIA -- Spotify Link a sonic tribute to origin, identity, and global pride. The track has been reimagined exclusively for the KALKI x Raja Kumari collaboration, incorporating the collection's spirit into every beat. LA INDIA is a fierce anthem of being 'Made in India' and made for the world with lyrics that declare, 'No matter where I'm from, they'll always know I'm Made in India.' The message resonates deeply with the capsule's core themes - a celebration of cultural roots, a fearless, global-minded identity, and authentic storytelling that honours every shape, every presence, and every woman. Raja Kumari has also filmed a special music video in collaboration with KALKI, where she's seen wearing pieces from her co-created collection with KALKI. Born from a shared mission to create space where everybody belongs, this capsule reimagines Indian luxury fashion through a bold, modern, and unafraid lens. Raja Kumari, Grammy-nominated rapper, cultural disruptor, and icon of self-expression, steps into the role of co-creator, not a muse. She brings her global desi aesthetic, her signature fire, and her persistent belief that fashion must celebrate you, all of you. Together, KALKI and Raja Kumari present a capsule that bridges centuries of Indian artistry with the fearless energy of the world's runways. The silhouettes are fierce yet fluid, featuring corseted gowns with dramatic drapes, fusion saris enriched by capes and cuts, and lehengas that flirt with rebellion. This collection praises visibility at its root, for the woman who's always been the muse but never the sample size. Every design starts with body inclusivity as a non-negotiable - not an afterthought, not a checkbox, but a foundation. From sculpted velvets to liquid satins, from high-slit gowns to sheer overlays that glide like a second skin, each piece is tailored to empower, whether you're on stage, at a sangeet, or simply owning your presence. Visually, the collection stuns with deep jewel tones of oxblood, berry, and wine, representing mystery and opulence. Earthy neutrals and soft blushes ground the more dramatic silhouettes, while flashes of platinum and gold bring a futuristic shimmer. Signature elements such as thigh-high slits, statement sleeves, sculpted drapes, and jewelled bodices make it instantly red-carpet-ready. It clearly expresses that you don't have to shrink to fit into couture, but the couture should rise to meet you. But beyond the silhouettes and shimmer lies something more powerful: intention. Every thread, cut, and contour was designed to represent women in their fullness - culturally, emotionally, and physically. And in an industry long dominated by ideals that felt unreachable, the KALKI x Raja Kumari collection presents a bold alternative - fashion that fits, flatters, and frees. The capsule collection's price spans INR 40,000 - INR 70,000 and is available online at and KALKI's flagship stores. The brand's decision to price every piece equally, regardless of size, sets it apart even further because self-expression should never come with a premium. Talking about the collection, Raja Kumari shares, 'This collection is a celebration of identity, power, and heritage. We've created something for the main characters, the rule-breakers, the glam goddesses. This is Desi luxury on a global frequency. I hope every woman who wears these pieces feels seen, celebrated, and unstoppable.' KALKI's design team also backs the sentiment, stating, 'With Raja Kumari, we were rethinking what luxury could feel like. This collection breaks moulds while honouring our roots. It's tradition with swagger, couture with a heartbeat.' In a world asking for louder individuality, deeper representation, and unapologetic beauty, KALKI x Raja Kumari resets the tone entirely. This isn't just a capsule collection. It's a cultural declaration. Now live online and in stores - explore the collection and stay tuned to our social media for more updates and behind-the-scenes moments. ABOUT KALKI KALKI is a premium Indian fashion brand that seamlessly fuses traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics. Headquartered in Mumbai, the brand specializes in bridal couture, occasion wear, and Indo-western ensembles, distinguished by intricate hand embroidery, luxurious textiles, and refined silhouettes. With a growing retail presence across India and international pop-ups, KALKI caters to a global clientele seeking modern interpretations of heritage fashion. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by HT Syndication. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
Business Standard
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Standard
KALKI Unveils Its Boldest Chapter Yet with Grammy-Nominated Artist Raja Kumari
HT Syndication Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], July 11: When KALKI, one of India's beloved luxury fashion houses, joined hands with global music icon and unapologetic style force Raja Kumari, it wasn't just to design a capsule collection -- it was to make a statement. The KALKI x Raja Kumari collaboration is a movement that shifts the rules of couture with a vision rooted in inclusivity, heritage, and high-voltage glamour. Launching on 11th July, this powerful partnership goes beyond fashion into music and message. For the collection, Raja Kumari has created a special version of her original track, LA INDIA -- Spotify Link a sonic tribute to origin, identity, and global pride. The track has been reimagined exclusively for the KALKI x Raja Kumari collaboration, incorporating the collection's spirit into every beat. LA INDIA is a fierce anthem of being "Made in India" and made for the world with lyrics that declare, "No matter where I'm from, they'll always know I'm Made in India." The message resonates deeply with the capsule's core themes - a celebration of cultural roots, a fearless, global-minded identity, and authentic storytelling that honours every shape, every presence, and every woman. Raja Kumari has also filmed a special music video in collaboration with KALKI, where she's seen wearing pieces from her co-created collection with KALKI. Born from a shared mission to create space where everybody belongs, this capsule reimagines Indian luxury fashion through a bold, modern, and unafraid lens. Raja Kumari, Grammy-nominated rapper, cultural disruptor, and icon of self-expression, steps into the role of co-creator, not a muse. She brings her global desi aesthetic, her signature fire, and her persistent belief that fashion must celebrate you, all of you. Together, KALKI and Raja Kumari present a capsule that bridges centuries of Indian artistry with the fearless energy of the world's runways. The silhouettes are fierce yet fluid, featuring corseted gowns with dramatic drapes, fusion saris enriched by capes and cuts, and lehengas that flirt with rebellion. This collection praises visibility at its root, for the woman who's always been the muse but never the sample size. Every design starts with body inclusivity as a non-negotiable - not an afterthought, not a checkbox, but a foundation. From sculpted velvets to liquid satins, from high-slit gowns to sheer overlays that glide like a second skin, each piece is tailored to empower, whether you're on stage, at a sangeet, or simply owning your presence. Visually, the collection stuns with deep jewel tones of oxblood, berry, and wine, representing mystery and opulence. Earthy neutrals and soft blushes ground the more dramatic silhouettes, while flashes of platinum and gold bring a futuristic shimmer. Signature elements such as thigh-high slits, statement sleeves, sculpted drapes, and jewelled bodices make it instantly red-carpet-ready. It clearly expresses that you don't have to shrink to fit into couture, but the couture should rise to meet you. But beyond the silhouettes and shimmer lies something more powerful: intention. Every thread, cut, and contour was designed to represent women in their fullness - culturally, emotionally, and physically. And in an industry long dominated by ideals that felt unreachable, the KALKI x Raja Kumari collection presents a bold alternative - fashion that fits, flatters, and frees. The capsule collection's price spans INR 40,000 - INR 70,000 and is available online at and KALKI's flagship stores. The brand's decision to price every piece equally, regardless of size, sets it apart even further because self-expression should never come with a premium. Talking about the collection, Raja Kumari shares, "This collection is a celebration of identity, power, and heritage. We've created something for the main characters, the rule-breakers, the glam goddesses. This is Desi luxury on a global frequency. I hope every woman who wears these pieces feels seen, celebrated, and unstoppable." KALKI's design team also backs the sentiment, stating, "With Raja Kumari, we were rethinking what luxury could feel like. This collection breaks moulds while honouring our roots. It's tradition with swagger, couture with a heartbeat." In a world asking for louder individuality, deeper representation, and unapologetic beauty, KALKI x Raja Kumari resets the tone entirely. This isn't just a capsule collection. It's a cultural declaration. Now live online and in stores - explore the collection and stay tuned to our social media for more updates and behind-the-scenes moments. ABOUT KALKI KALKI is a premium Indian fashion brand that seamlessly fuses traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics. Headquartered in Mumbai, the brand specializes in bridal couture, occasion wear, and Indo-western ensembles, distinguished by intricate hand embroidery, luxurious textiles, and refined silhouettes. With a growing retail presence across India and international pop-ups, KALKI caters to a global clientele seeking modern interpretations of heritage fashion.
NDTV
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Is A Breastplate The New Blouse? What The Fashion Industry Says
This era is marked by all the fashion girls swapping the OG blouses with figure hugging and maximal breastplates. The lehengas and sarees are up for being paired with breastplates that are all about cinched waistlines and structured cast-like upper bodice pieces that have painted the bridal OOTD space in the upcoming wedding season. The carefully crafted breastplates that sculpt bodies like a glove are paired with dreamy lehengas and graceful sarees alike. What's more, the modern Indian bride seems to be going gaga over giving this age-old silhouette a contemporary spin to be viewed from an all-new point of view. Leading Indian couturiers and designer labels such as Gaurav Gupta, KALKI and Divya Aggarwal are enveloping the sculptural vibes of the perfectly contoured torsos dressed in breastplates that add all the drama with a contemporary touch to wedding ready ensembles. What is born all thanks to the right mix of lehengas, sarees and breastplates is the perfect mix of ethnic wear and a hint of rebel-coded bridal chic couture. It is the best of both the worlds that boasts of an amalgam of Indian traditional wear and bad*** confidence. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gaurav Gupta (@gauravguptaofficial) NDTV spoke to fashion industry giants and designers to break down all the deets about breastplates as a growing sartorial staple on the ethnic Indian couture front. What's Up With The Breastplates Trend Replacing The OG Blouses? Is It Here To Stay And Slay This Wedding Season? Ace Indian designer Gaurav Gupta spilled the beans on all things breastplates to NDTV,"Fashion is all about invention and re-imagination. Breastplates for us, as a brand, is where fashion meets art or wearable architecture, sculptural yet feminine and defining. The woman of today is poetic and powerful and I think breastplate is an evolution of the blouse that merges the two masterfully." Speaking on the future slay worthiness of the trend this wedding season, Gaurav Gupta agreed, adding, "Today's bride wants to feel like a goddess - armoured, ethereal and unforgettable. These pieces bring emotion and structure to a moment that's deeply personal. It's not a trend, it's a movement." Saurabh Gupta, CEO & Founder at KALKI, is of the opinion, "Breastplates are the brave new vocabulary of bridal and celebratory couture. They're redefining the blouse's role, from supporting actress to head-turning star. This trend speaks volumes - Indian women today are no longer shy about combining sensuality with structure." He further expresses his opinion on the trend. "Brides, bridesmaids, and even wedding guests are trading in classic blouses for chiseled bustiers and fashion-forward corsets. Not only are they style-forward, but also incredibly versatile, giving lehengas, sarees, and even draped skirts a much-needed dose of edge and elegance." Fashion designer Divya Aggarwal thinks that it is honestly only a matter of time until the breastplate trend paints the sartorial lanes red. "Today's woman doesn't want to just 'match her blouse to her lehenga'. She wants to express something. She saw this coming, a shift from utility to statement. Sculpted breastplates give structure, strength, and sensuality in a way no traditional blouse can. And yes, they're here to slay." This gives us quite an array of perspectives on the breastplates trend with all of them pointing towards the reign of the statement garment in the Indian couture space in the current wedding season and the ones to come. Quick Tips To Dress Up Or Dress Down A Breastplate For A Casual Day-Out Or A Wedding Function Gaurav Gupta gives NDTV his point of view on how to style a breastplate for a bunch of occasions. "It's all about storytelling. For a casual day, wear it with jeans; it's cool, effortless yet disruptive. For weddings, go maximal; embroidered corsetry, metallic bustiers, fluid drapes. Play with duality," he added. Saurabh Gupta lends his ideas saying, "To dress it down, simply wear a breastplate with flared palazzos or a high-slit skirt for a mehendi brunch or sundowner. And to dress it up, get complete glam with a hand-embroidered corset top and silk lehenga or a draped saree for a reception or cocktail. Layer a sheer cape or show-stopping dupatta to take it to the next level." Divya Aggarwal shares her styling tips and tricks, "That's the beauty of it. When done right, sculpted breastplates can go from art gallery night to cocktail night. It's all in the styling, and that's what today's woman truly enjoys - flexibility." How Do Breastplates Fit Into A Modern Indian Bridal Wardrobe? Gaurav Gupta speaks to NDTV on the fusion of breastplates with the modern Indian bride, "They are the centre piece. A sculpted breastplate gives the bride emotional armour. It's where couture meets inner strength. You walk down the aisle not just adorned, but awakened." Saurabh Gupta gives his point of view, "They're the ultimate combination of form and glitter. Contemporary brides are embracing styles that look tough and cutting-edge. Consider crystal-beaded breastplates under organza dupattas, classic origins, and nonconformist conclusions." Divya Aggarwal adds her perspective on the place of breastplates in contemporary bridal couture, "They fit like power fits a queen. Breastplates often become the jewellery - metallic, moulded, and dramatic. They're not accessories. They're statements. Our brides don't want to be just pretty, they want to be unforgettable." How Can Bridesmaids Include A Breastplate In Their Celebration Looks? Gaurav Gupta's perspective on how breastplates can be styled by bridesmaids, "Make the look light, fluid and functional. Bridesmaids can wear structured corsets in metallic tones, paired with draped pants or skirts. It's playful couture that allows movement, magic, and moments. Think celestial but chill." Divya Aggarwal tells NDTV,"Think less matching, more mixing. We love styling bridesmaids in breastplates over draped tunics or silk shirts that can be incredibly fresh and edgy. These are pieces they'll re-wear long after the wedding's over. And that's exactly what we aim for, longevity in style." How Do You View This Mix Of Tradition And Rebellion In Couture? Gauarv Gupta is literally living for this amalgam. "That's the tension I live for. I love heritage, but I also love breaking it open to find new shapes. Breastplates let me fuse mythology with futurism. They are the couture of emotion and rebellion." Saurabh Gupta views the mix through KALKI's lens, "We adore the conversation between heritage and risk at KALKI. Breastplates crossing over with ethnic wear is a new-age bride, bold, sensual, and earthy. It's not about rebellion; it's about reinvention." Divya Aggarwal is of a similar opinion to the other couturiers and designer labels, "It's my favourite kind of chaos, here two worlds collide to create something entirely new. As a designer, I'm deeply rooted in the Indian visual language, but I'm equally obsessed with form, fit, and silhouette. Breastplates offer that intersection of control and fluidity. It's not rebellion for the sake of shock, it's rebellion that makes sense." Favourite Bollywood Divas Who Have Worn And Endorsed The Breastplate Trend View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gaurav Gupta (@gauravguptaofficial) Gaurav Gupta, who has dressed the leading ladies of Bollywood in his iconic custom breastplate couture pieces, says, " Alia Bhatt, Sonam Kapoor, Kiara Advani, they've all worn breastplates like second skin." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gaurav Gupta (@gauravguptaofficial) He even named his favourite Hollywood divas, "Internationally, Shakira and Kelly Rowland, they wear our breastplates like armour. It's not celebrity dressing, it's couture." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gaurav Gupta (@gauravguptaofficial) Saurabh Gupta speaks to NDTV,"From Kiara Advani in metallic bustiers to Janhvi Kapoor and Tara Sutaria in chiseled breastplates, the new-age glam squad is completely sold. Even Sonam Kapoor has brought on the breastplate-meets-saree moment with effortless panache." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gaurav Gupta (@gauravguptaofficial) Divya Aggarwal also drops names of her fave divas, "Several stunning women are pushing the envelope. Kiara Advani has played it both soft and sculpted. Janhvi Kapoor wears breastplates with such ease, she knows how to balance structure with softness. These women get it, it's not about wearing a breastplate, it's about owning it." Your Two Cents On The Future Of This Sartorial Trend? Gaurav Gupta's shares his take with NDTV, "The future is fluid, sculptural, and deeply individual. Breastplates will keep evolving towards becoming lighter, softer and bolder. They'll belong not just on runways, but also in wardrobes. It's a revolution of form, fit, and feeling." Saurabh Gupta adds on behalf of KALKI, "Breastplates are staying, but they'll continue to develop. Look for more blending, more customisation, and more whimsical layering. Indian fashion is redrawing the rules, and this trend is at the forefront." Divya Aggarwal shares her POV, "Breastplates aren't a passing phase, they're a recalibration. The blouse is no longer just a piece of clothing, it's a power move. And as long as Indian women continue to evolve in identity, ambition, and self-expression, this trend will only grow stronger." It is safe to say that it is the era of breastplates taking centre stage in Indian couture and we are just living in it.
