58 October 2014 www.womanthismonth.com Ethnic Designs Kala Niketan — The Original by Hiten Parekh launches its store in association with one of the biggest names in Bahrain’s fashion industry, Kubra Al Qaseer. Known for her combination of Arabic styles with a touch of flamboyance and modern Western influences, Kubra is a traditionalist at heart. “It’s an absolute honour to be associated with a 73-year-old Indian brand,” she says. “Kala Niketan stands for quality, style and class. Their collections are unique, stylish, classy and wearable for all occasions. I truly hope to take the brand to a new level.” Hiten Parekh, the owner of Kala Niketan, has been a part of the family business for the last 23 years. He has been inspired by his father Navneet Parekh, who is a living legend in the silk garment industry. The brand aims to represent the rich culture of India on a global scale through its collection of ethnic apparel. “The Indian fashion stage is a reflection of deep cultural influences, the consumer shift in the new economic scenario and changing social perceptions. It indicates the birth of new and distinct target groups that ride on various influences to set new trends. These influencers and various target group characteristics are key to bringing Indian traditional wear to an international platform,” says Hiten. The collection at Kala Niketan — The Original is personally handpicked by Hiten Parekh and his in-house team of designers. The brand has established its presence in Mumbai, Baroda, Pune, Dubai and now in Bahrain. Its expansion plan includes new stores across the UAE, the USA and Singapore in addition to the ones set to open in Canada and the Indian city of Indore. Call 17 700-720. showcase An iconic Indian fashion brand, Kala Niketan, has found a new home in Bahrain, offering a wide range of ethnic apparel to the island’s residents. FASHION
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