Raghavendra Rathore is an iconic name synonymous with the timeless Bandhgala, known worldwide. With over twenty years of experience in the fashion arts, he has become a go-to designer for Bollywood’s elite, including Saif Ali Khan and royal princes like Sawai Padmanabh Singh. Hailing from the culturally rich city of Jodhpur, Rathore draws inspiration from his heritage and gives his creations a royal touch.
His creative talent extends beyond textiles and tailoring to include jewelry, interior design and multimedia projects. Raghavendra Rathore’s eponymous brand showcases his signature aesthetic, an amalgamation of classic designs with a contemporary twist, reflecting the opulence of Rajasthan’s holistic luxury.
Through his label, Raghavendra Rathore Jodhpur, he has built a global reputation known for his rustic charm mixed with traditional elegance. Some of his most sought-after pieces include the Jodhpuri Achkans, Jodhpuri Breeches & Satin and the Jodhpuri Vest Set, cementing his status as a revered figure in the fashion industry and celebrating India’s rich cultural tapestry. We discuss the wardrobes of Saif Ali Khan, Sawai Padmanabh Singh and other prominent figures.
Question 1: Can you share some insights into the creative process and inspiration behind designing wardrobes for leading royals, modern aristocratic families and established actors? What unique challenges and opportunities do you face when paying royalties?
Creating our bespoke designs is a meticulous process, with state-of-the-art craftsmanship and innovative fabrics. Our discerning clients range from prominent figures such as the Maharaja of Baroda and Tehri Garhwal, the Emir of Qatar, the Duchess of York and King Felipe of Spain, in addition to dignitaries from the Middle East.
Designing an outfit for these quintessential individuals has always been about more than just the clothes; it’s about capturing their essence in fabric and design. The challenge lies in highlighting their distinctive character while still having global appeal. This has given us the opportunity to fuel our passion for reinventing custom designs every time.
Question 2: Your work often combines traditional Indian craftsmanship with modern aesthetics. How do you strike a balance between preserving the heritage of Indian fashion while catering to the evolving tastes and preferences of your high-profile customers?
Every season we create designs in the studio that capture the essence of our brand together with modern aesthetics. We evolve with our designs thanks to innovative fabrics and reimagining customization for the future. The classic Bandhgala has been reinvented with a fresh look and gradually new avatars.
The Raghavendra Rathore Jodhpur brand beautifully demonstrates that the future of fashion does not lie in rejecting the past, but in celebrating and reinventing it.
Question 3: With royalties comes the responsibility to uphold cultural and social significance. How do you ensure that your designs not only reflect the individual style of your customers, but also respect their heritage and social role?
Our design process begins with a deep dive into the cultural ethos of ancient India. From the architecture to the textiles, the folklore to the royal family, the equestrian sport of Polo, everything is a source of inspiration. These inspirations are then translated into design elements and fabric manipulations. Individuals who identify with these nuances understand that it is more than fashion; it’s about telling stories and keeping traditions alive.
Each design takes into account varying preferences and personal advice, allowing us to integrate their unique identity into our garments. The custom tailoring seamlessly compliments each persona and reinforces their unique identity.
Question 4: Can you highlight any memorable experiences or anecdotes from working with these prominent figures? How have their personal stories and preferences influenced your design choices?
Working with leading personalities in films has been a journey. The impeccable understanding of the characters in the film ‘Eklavya’, played by Jackie Shroff, Amitabh Bacchan and Saif Ali Khan, helped us design the details with utmost precision. The designer must translate the director’s vision according to the intrinsic aristocratic sensibilities with the same brushstroke for a scene. These characters’ stories fit effortlessly into our design choices and help us evolve with each individual.
Question 5: The fashion industry is constantly evolving. How do you stay ahead of the trends and continue to innovate, while maintaining the timeless elegance synonymous with dressing royalty?
I believe innovation while sustaining is the key to staying relevant in a rapidly changing industry. Our designs are steeped in tradition, yet have a contemporary look. The challenge ahead is to balance the ethos of the Raghavendra Rathore Jodhpur brand with the evolving trends in fashion. By maintaining the core ethos of our brand, which is rooted in heritage and craftsmanship, and adapting it to modern aesthetics, we have managed to remain distinctive and relevant. Every season the brand consistently advocates a timeless, artisanal appearance.
