BW MIW : Anamika Khanna - Fashioning Balance

Anamika Khanna’s designs are a combination of India’s rich craft techniques and contemporary aesthetic. For example, the dhoti pant was created as a modern high waist trouser to be worn with a dupatta or the Indian skirt. She has won several accolades and awards for her creations. She was the first Indian woman to show her collection at the Paris Fashion Week. Her designs are regularly donned by movie stars at events and even in their films.

In her professional journey, marked by several accolades, Khanna did not face any bias based on gender. “Being in this profession, I have never faced any discrimination for being a woman. Yes, as a mother there is always the challenge to make sure there is work-life balance, but with my whole family being involved in the business we get to spend a lot of time together.”

This entrepreneur says she has gradually learned how to balance, which helps her avoid getting overwhelmed. “I was going through a health crisis a few years ago and during that time I had to make many difficult changes in my life. As the lead designer of the brand, it is very difficult to ‘let go’ of control in any way when it comes to design. I would look into every piece. Now, I have started to trust more and learnt to say no, especially to social obligations.”