Designer label Asha Gautam and Jewellery Designer Archana Aggarwal recently presented Khwaab, a showcase in collaboration with Brave Souls Foundation, an NGO dedicated to supporting acid attack survivors. Khwaab, which means “dream” in Urdu, serves as the theme of the show.
The courageous survivors graced the ramp, adorned in Asha Gautam’s signature vintage pieces such as Banarasi, Bandhani, Patola Lehengas, Kurta Shararas, Anarkalis, and Sarees, complemented by exquisite jeweler from Archana Aggarwal.
Gautam Gupta creative director, Asha Gautam
“We are celebrating our 25years of existence this year and this is the best way to start by making the brave survivors walk in our designs. We as a brand always believe that Fashion is not just clothes or product but a culture, it is a culture to bring all the sections of the society together and persistently work towards inclusivity”
Archana Aggarwal, Celebrated Jewellery Designer
“I am deeply humbled to mark the completion of 25 years of my journey as a jewellery designer. As I reflect on this milestone, I am reminded of the incredible strength and resilience of the human spirit. Today, I pledge my unwavering support to acid attack survivors, standing alongside them as they rise above adversity. Let us create a world where their scars become symbols of triumph, and where love and respect prevail over cruelty. Together, we can make a difference.”
Shaheen Malik, Founder Brave souls
“The idea of beauty transforms through ages and civilizations. When particular body types and skin tones are deemed “beautiful,” others inevitably are labeled “plain” and endure resulting consequences. Human skin and bodies inherently vary, and accidents, such as acid attacks, further hinder one’s control over physicality. Then promoting one body ideal at the expense of others is no good either, there will always be individuals who suffer. Yet, is it possible to entirely transform this concept? Could we associate beauty not with physicality but mentality? Not with smoothness of skin but strength of character? Not haute couture but honesty? Not the number of followers but people helped? Not appearances but authenticity? Not waist but wisdom?I invite you to the most difficult; to question deeply ingrained, almost instinctual, unconscious, notions of beauty that we all harbor. Thank you for trying,
We have helped 200+ survivors receive reconstructive surgeries. Over 150 survivors have received a compensation of a minimum of Rs. 3 lakhs each through legal intervention. 4 Indian state governments significantly improved their laws and policies concerning free medical treatment and compensation to survivors due to our policy-related work.”
