NIFT Gandhinagar, in collaboration with the Government of India, had the honor of curating a grand fashion show as part of the G20 Finance Ministers' Cultural Dinners. This historic event, held in the capital city of Gandhinagar under the G20 umbrella, showcased India's rich cultural heritage and vibrant fashion industry to world leaders attending the G20 summit.

Hon’ble Finance Minister of India, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, graced the occasion with her presence. The gala event also witnessed the presence of top banking of officials of the G20.

The who’s who of the Gujarat political and fashion circle were present to witness the mega event unfold.

Under the able leadership of Prof. Dr. Sameer Sood, the Director of NIFT Gandhinagar, the talented faculties and students meticulously planned and executed every aspect of the event, bringing to life the vision of Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's "Mission LiFE."

Introducing Mission LiFE: An India-led global movement to promote environmental conservation and sustainable living, presented by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi at the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties in Glasgow. This initiative aims to harness the wisdom of ancient Indian scriptures and traditions to inspire positive behavioral changes at the individual and community levels.

“The event served as a global platform to exhibit the traditional crafts of India, symbolizing the unity and interdependence of all living and non-living beings. The showcase exemplified the deep reverence for the Five Elements (Wind, Fire, Earth, Water, and Sky) found in ancient Indian scriptures” – Quoted Prof. Dr. Sameer Sood, Director, NIFT Gandhinagar.

The Rig Veda, the oldest religious text composed during the Early Vedic Age, highlights the importance of the five elements (Prithivi, Pavan, Jal, Tej, and Nabh) and advocates for their sustainable use. Mission LiFE aims to tap into this ancient wisdom and spread its message worldwide.

India is known for its rich culture and heritage, including approximately 7 million artisans practicing over 3000 craft forms. Prof. Dr. Sameer Sood, Director of NIFT Gandhinagar, elaborated on the five sequences, each representing an element, which celebrated indigenous traditional artisanal craftsmanship and promoted unity through skillful and mindful actions.

To showcase this cultural legacy and promote an environmentally conscious lifestyle, a range of lifestyle and fashion collections called "वाशुधजन" (meaning "Pro-Planet People") has been created and Renowned Indian designers Ritu Beri, Anju Modi, and Payal Jain collaborated with NIFT Gandhinagar to design and showcase three of the five sequences, adding their creative prowess to this prestigious event:

वायु (Air) by Ms. Anju Modi: This collection combines silk and cotton crafts, balancing elegance and comfort. The wind sequence took the audience on an eternal transformative journey through the mythical city of Banaras, blending jacquard and Mashru weaves with exquisite techniques like Marori, Zardozi, and foil printing. The crafts draw inspiration from the ancient city of Banaras, blending jacquard and Mashru weaves. Various techniques like Marori, Zardozi, and foil printing enhance the aesthetics, representing the global reach of these crafts.

जल (Water) by NIFT Students & Faculty Members: This collection celebrates crafts like Bagh Printing, Batik Printing, Ajrakh Printing, Bandhani, and Lehariya, which involve dyeing and washing processes requiring water. These crafts have historical roots and cultural significance across India and other countries. The water sequence encompassed diverse geographies, merging artisanal techniques like resist dyeing (bandhani, batik, laheria, and shibori) and block printing (ajarakh, bagru, and bagh) from India, China, Japan, and Indonesia.

नभ (Sky) by Ms. Payal Jain: The crafts used in this collection, including Seesho Bharat, Chikankari, Zardozi Embroidery, Mokaish Patti, and Applique, are as ubiquitous as the sky. They represent the artistry and beauty found in various regions of India.

धरा (Earth) by NIFT Students & Faculty Members: This collection showcases vibrant, hand-painted textiles nurtured by artisans. Crafts like Mata Ni Pachedi, Pichvai, Madhubani Painting, and Kalamkari are incorporated, reflecting the Earth's abundance of colors and the nurturing essence of Indian culture.

शुचि (Fire) by Ms. Ritu Beri: This collection pays tribute to fire's energy and manifests it through hand embroidery techniques from Kutch and Aari work. Warm colors, glittering motifs, mirror work, and regional Indian embroideries represent the rich cultural heritage of Gujarat.

Each collection not only promotes an environmentally conscious lifestyle but also highlights the heritage and legacy of Indian crafts. By intertwining the principles of sustainable living and traditional wisdom, Mission LiFE aims to unite individuals and communities worldwide as Pro-Planet People. Together, we can protect and preserve the environment for a sustainable future – Informed Prof. Dr. Sameer Sood, Director, NIFT Gandhinagar.

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