Eastern Eye caught up with the forward thinking, Mumbai-based designer to discuss her journey in fashion
By Neelam Mistry-ThakerMar 09, 2024
INTERNATIONALLY renowned fashion designer Anushka Khanna has effortlessly combined her Indian heritage with a global perspective.
From made-to-order, ready-to-wear and bespoke creations to dressing A-list celebrities such as Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Deepika Padukone and Sonam Kapoor, she has turned her brand into a powerful symbol of girl power.
Eastern Eye caught up with the forward thinking, Mumbai-based designer to discuss her journey in fashion. She also revealed her style tips, trends for 2024, love of colour and her forever item of clothing.
How did you first get connected to the world of fashion?
My journey into the world of fashion began at a young age, when I found solace and self-expression through clothing. Fashion became a means to communicate my creativity and individuality, sparking a lifelong passion for design and style.
Bollywood actressAnanya Pandaywearing her creation
Who is your biggest fashion inspiration?
While there are many designers and icons I admire, my biggest fashion inspiration comes from the vibrant cultures and diverse landscapes that surround me and my personal experiences as a mother. Nature, art and everyday moments serve as constant sources of inspiration, influencing my designs with their beauty and complexity.
How would you describe your design aesthetic?
My designs are a reflection of boldness, vibrancy, and versatility. I strive to create pieces that celebrate the uniqueness of every individual. I am a big believer in the power of separates and the versatility of garments. I want my clients to wear my clothes again and again. From intricate embellishments to modern silhouettes, each design tells a story and invites the wearer to embrace their authenticity.
How would you describe the woman who wears an Anushka Khanna piece?
A woman who chooses to wear an Anushka Khanna piece is fearless, confident and unapologetically herself. She embodies grace and strength, effortlessly blending tradition with modernity. Whether she’s attending a festive celebration or a casual outing, she carries herself with poise and grace, leaving a lasting impression wherever she goes.
Which celebrities have you most enjoyed dressing up?
Dressing celebrities has been an exciting opportunity to see my designs come to life on the red carpet. While I’ve enjoyed dressing many talented individuals, collaborating with stars like Alia Bhatt, Shraddha Kapoor and Kiara Advani has been particularly memorable, as they effortlessly embody the spirit of the Anushka Khanna woman.
Where do you typically gather inspiration for your designs?
Inspiration for my designs comes from a myriad of sources, ranging from travel experiences to personal encounters. I am inspired by the rich tapestry of Indian culture, incorporating traditional motifs and textiles into contemporary designs. Additionally, I find motivation in global trends, art movements and the everevolving world around us. Your designs have a vibrancy in colour.
What does colour mean to you?
Colour holds immense significance in my designs, serving as a tool for self-expression and storytelling. Each hue evokes a different emotion and carries its own symbolism, allowing me to create collections that resonate with diverse audiences. From vibrant reds to serene blues, colour infuses life and energy into my designs, reflecting the vibrancy of the human spirit.
What trend is driving your designs for 2024?
In 2024, expect to see bold prints, dynamic silhouettes and unexpected combinations that challenge conventional norms and will redefine contemporary fashion.
Individuality and inclusivity are also key drivers, as I continue to prioritise self-expression and diverse representation in my collections.
Do you prefer fashion trends, or timeless classics?
While I appreciate the creativity and innovation of fashion trends, I’m drawn to timeless classics that transcend seasons and fleeting fads. My designs strike a balance between the two, incorporating elements of timeless elegance with contemporary flair, ensuring longevity and versatility for the modern woman’s wardrobe.
Anushka Khanna
If you had to pick one item of clothing to keep forever, what would it be?
It would be a classic sari. The sari is not just a garment, but a symbol of tradition, grace and timeless beauty.
Its versatility allows it to be styled in countless ways, making it a cherished heirloom that can be passed down through generations.
How would you describe your personal style?
My personal style is eclectic, blending elements of traditional Indian attire with modern silhouettes and global influences. I gravitate towards bold colours, intricate embellishments and unexpected details that add depth and character to my wardrobe. Above all, comfort and confidence are paramount, as I believe true style begins with feeling empowered in what you wear.
What would be your biggest style tip?
To embrace your individuality and dress in a way that makes you feel confident and empowered. Experiment with different styles, colours and textures to discover what resonates with you personally. Don’t be afraid to mix and match pieces or step out of your comfort zone – fashion is all about self-expression and having fun with your wardrobe.
How do you see the Anushka Khanna brand growing?
Looking ahead, I envision the Anushka Khanna brand continuing to evolve and expand its presence on the national and international stages. With a focus on individuality, inclusivity and innovation, I aim to create collections that resonate with a global audience while staying true to our ethos of celebrating self-expression and creativity.
THE Jain community in London came together for a historic celebration, honouring five teenagers who successfully completed the eight-day Athai Tap fast, one of the most respected spiritual practices in Jainism.
The children – Moksh Shah, Labdhi Mehta, Mithil Shah, Svara Gandhi, and Dylan Shah – each from different families, were recognised for their discipline, devotion, and inner strength. Athai Tap involves abstaining from food for eight continuous days, a test of both body and spirit, undertaken as a way of seeking spiritual progress and self-control, according to a statement.
More than 300 members of the community gathered at the Potters Bar Derasar to mark the milestone earlier this month. The event began with the teenagers arriving in a limousine before walking down a red carpet, where they were greeted with cheers, blessings, and warm embraces.
The programme reflected the joy and unity of the occasion. Mothers of the tapasvis performed a graceful welcome dance, siblings gave heartfelt and creative introductions, while fathers joined together in a lively stage act. Devotional Jain songs were played, before the celebration concluded with a spirited Raas Garba dance that saw people of all ages joining in with colour and energy.
For many in attendance, the event was more than a celebration of fasting. It was a reminder of the strength of faith, the value of cultural roots, and the inspiration that young people can provide when they commit to tradition and spirituality, the statement added.
Attendees described the event as a proud moment for London’s Jain community.
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Enninful also gave his view on a recent American Eagle campaign featuring actress Sydney Sweeney
Former British Vogue editor-in-chief Edward Enninful says “anti-woke” rhetoric is influencing fashion.
He warns the industry is reverting to European and super-thin beauty standards.
Enninful has launched a new inclusive media venture, EE72, with Julia Roberts on its debut cover.
He dismisses rumours of a fallout with Anna Wintour, saying she supported his departure from Vogue.
He also commented on recent advertising controversies, including Sydney Sweeney’s American Eagle campaign.
Fashion industry ‘in flux’
Edward Enninful, the former editor-in-chief of British Vogue, has warned that fashion risks going backwards on diversity, with super-thin and European looks once again dominating as the beauty norm.
Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Radical with Amol Rajan during London Fashion Week, he said that “anti-woke” and anti-diversity sentiment was “having a moment.”
“I think we’re potentially going back to an industry that’s just sort of, ‘one type is the norm, being European is the norm, being super-thin is the norm’,” he said.
Launch of EE72
Enninful, who left British Vogue in 2023, has launched a new media platform called EE72, describing it as “inclusive.” Its first quarterly print edition highlights the beauty of women over 50 and features Julia Roberts, 57, on the cover.
The title takes its name from Enninful’s year of birth, 1972. He said he felt it was “the perfect time” to return to the industry, which he described as “in flux” and still facing “a lot of work to be done.”
Champion of diversity
Born in Ghana, Enninful came to London as an asylum seeker. He became fashion director of i-D magazine at 18 before being appointed as the first Black editor-in-chief of British Vogue. He used the role to champion broader representation, saying he wanted to reflect “the world we live in today.”
Asked if he believed an “anti-woke moment” was taking place, he agreed, saying: “Woke is a dirty word. We see what’s happening in the world politically. So anything that’s not deemed as normal or the norm is seen as wrong.”
Departure from Vogue
Enninful also addressed speculation about his relationship with Dame Anna Wintour, who is stepping down as editor-in-chief of American Vogue after 37 years.
He dismissed claims of a falling out, explaining: “When I took the job, I gave myself five years and I did six. Anna asked me to give them a year’s notice so they could find my replacement, who turned out to be Chioma Nnadi. So it was my decision to leave.”
He said Wintour had been “very supportive,” adding: “Anna and I, we text each other all the time. You’re going to see us together.”
Advertising controversy
Enninful also gave his view on a recent American Eagle campaign featuring actress Sydney Sweeney, where the strapline “Sydney Sweeney has great jeans” drew criticism.
Some suggested the wordplay implied a racially exclusive beauty standard, while others said the outrage was exaggerated. Enninful commented: “I thought people really read into it probably deeper than I would have… But then on the other hand, I guess if you have a blonde woman sitting there talking about her jeans, it will trigger some people.”
He concluded that the reaction reflected how “the population is quite divided.”
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The findings come from a UK survey of more than 12,000 women
Survey of more than 12,000 UK women finds heavier, longer periods linked to long Covid
Symptom severity rises and falls across the menstrual cycle, worsening during periods
Tests reveal inflammation in womb lining and hormonal changes, but no damage to ovaries
Iron deficiency risk may exacerbate fatigue, dizziness and other common long Covid symptoms
Study highlights link between long Covid and menstrual changes
Women with long Covid are more likely to experience longer and heavier periods, putting them at increased risk of iron deficiency, researchers have found. The findings come from a UK survey of more than 12,000 women, which also showed that the severity of long Covid symptoms fluctuated across the menstrual cycle and often worsened during menstruation.
Findings from UK survey
Between March and May 2021, 12,187 women completed an online survey. Of these, more than 1,000 had long Covid, over 1,700 had recovered from the virus, and 9,400 had never tested positive. The study revealed that women with long Covid reported heavier and longer periods, as well as more frequent bleeding between cycles, compared with other groups.
A follow-up survey with 54 women showed that symptoms worsened in the two days before and during menstruation, pointing to a strong link between hormonal changes and long Covid severity.
Biological markers and test results
Researchers also analysed blood samples from 10 women with long Covid. These tests showed excessive inflammation in the womb lining and elevated levels of the hormone dihydrotestosterone, both of which may drive heavier menstrual bleeding. Importantly, there was no evidence that long Covid damaged ovary function.
Risks of iron deficiency
Heavier periods increase the risk of iron deficiency, which is already common among women of child-bearing age. Symptoms of iron deficiency — such as fatigue, shortness of breath and dizziness — overlap with common long Covid complaints, leaving women particularly vulnerable.
Dr Jacqueline Maybin of the University of Edinburgh, who led the work, said the findings could pave the way for more tailored treatments for women. “Our hope is that this will allow us to develop really specific treatments for women with long Covid who are suffering with menstrual disturbance. It may also lead to female-specific treatments for long Covid itself.”
Global and national impact of long Covid
An estimated 400 million people worldwide are living with or recovering from long Covid. In England alone, nearly 2 million people self-report as having symptoms lasting more than four weeks after infection. More than 200 symptoms have been recorded, with the most common including fatigue, brain fog, breathing difficulties, digestive problems, headaches and changes to smell and taste.
Expert views on treatment potential
Dr Viki Male, a reproductive immunology specialist at Imperial College London, said the findings support a biological explanation for the link. “Inflammation in the uterus is associated with heavy menstrual bleeding, so this could be the link between long Covid and prolonged or heavy periods,” she explained. She added that anti-inflammatory drugs already used to treat heavy periods may also be effective for women experiencing this symptom as part of long Covid.
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The discovery coincides with Bradford’s City of Culture celebrations
Research for the World Curry Festival uncovered evidence of a curry house in Bradford in 1942.
Cafe Nasim, later called The Bengal Restaurant, is thought to be the city’s first.
The discovery coincides with Bradford’s City of Culture celebrations.
Festival events will include theatre, lectures, and a street food market.
Historic discovery in Bradford’s food heritage
Bradford’s claim as the curry capital of Britain has gained new historical depth. Organisers of the World Curry Festival have uncovered evidence that the city’s first curry house opened in 1942.
Documents revealed that Cafe Nasim, later renamed The Bengal Restaurant, once stood on the site of the current Kashmir Restaurant on Morley Street. Researcher David Pendleton identified an advert for the cafe in the Yorkshire Observer dated December 1942, describing it as “Bradford’s First Indian Restaurant”.
Festival organisers confirm findings
Festival founder Zulfi Karim said the discovery ended long-standing debate over which was Bradford’s first curry house. For years, different establishments had laid claim to the title, including restaurants from the 1950s and the Sweet Centre in 1964.
“This was during the Second World War, so it’s hard to imagine what ingredients they had access to with rationing,” Mr Karim said. “Even the current owner of Kashmir Restaurant thought it only went back to the 1950s.”
Bangladeshi roots of curry in Britain
Mr Karim highlighted the role of Bangladeshi immigrants in establishing Britain’s curry houses, noting that many early arrivals to the UK were former Navy workers. “That’s 80 years plus now since we’ve had a curry house in Bradford and that’s a huge story,” he added.
World Curry Festival 2025
The festival, first launched in Leeds in 2008, is being held in Bradford this year as part of the City of Culture 2025 celebrations. Running from 15–29 September, it will feature a mix of food, culture and performance.
Highlights include:
Theatre of Curry: A staged reading of Balti Kings (1999) by Sudha Bhuchar and Shaheen Khan, with curry served during the interval.
Supper club experiences.
Talks by Dr Amir Khan on nutrition and preserving authentic recipes.
Preserving the future of curry
Mr Karim stressed the importance of supporting the industry, which faces challenges due to a shortage of new talent.
“We need to keep it local, keep it authentic, and encourage people to enjoy it but also learn to cook at home,” he said.
Finding romance today feels like trying to align stars in a night sky that refuses to stay still
When was the last time you stumbled into a conversation that made your heart skip? Or exchanged a sweet beginning to a love story - organically, without the buffer of screens, swipes, or curated profiles? In 2025, those moments feel rarer, swallowed up by the quickening pace of life.
We are living faster than ever before. Cities hum with noise and neon, people race between commitments, and ambition seems to be the rhythm we all march to. In the process, the simple art of connection - eye contact, lingering conversations, the gentle patience of getting to know someone - feels like it is slipping through our fingers.
Whether you’re single, searching, or settled, the landscape is shifting. Some turn to apps for convenience; others look for love in cafés, gyms, workplaces or community spaces. But the challenge remains the same: how do we connect deeply in a world designed to move at lightning speed?
We’ve become fluent in productivity, in chasing careers, in cultivating polished identities. Yet are we forgetting how to be fluent in intimacy? When was the last time you sat across from someone and truly listened - without checking your phone, without planning the next step, without treating time like a currency to be spent?
It’s a strange paradox: we have more access to people than ever before, yet many feel more isolated. Fun is always available - dinners, drinks, nights out, fleeting encounters - but fulfilment is harder to grasp. Are we mistaking access for intimacy? Are we human, or are we slowly adapting into versions of ourselves stripped of those raw, humanistic qualities - vulnerability, patience, tenderness - that once defined love?
Perhaps we’ve grown comfortable with the fast exit. It’s easier to ghost than to explain. Easier to keep moving than to pause. But what does that cost us? What do we lose when romance becomes a checkbox on an already overstuffed to-do list?
The truth is - the heart doesn’t move at the pace of technology or ambition. It moves slowly, awkwardly, with a rhythm that resists acceleration. Maybe that’s the point. Love has always lived in the messy spaces - hesitant pauses, nervous laughter, words spoken without rehearsal.
So the real question for 2025 is not “Have we gone too far?” but “Can we afford to slow down?” Can we still allow ourselves the sweetness of beginnings - the chance encounters, the unplanned moments, the quiet courage to be open?
Because in the end, connection is not about speed or access—it’s about presence. In a world that won’t stop moving, choosing to be present might be the bravest act of love we have left.