A stylish ode to anti-air pollution

Indeed, collective effort is what brings about a herculean change. But, there’s also no denying how it is those little acts of thoughtfulness and kindness that go on to make a world of difference. For, Bengaluru designer Tahera Peeran, landing a lofty yet creatively fulfilling collaboration with two tech companies and Prasad Bidapa is what has kept her busy and beaming in the recent past. Her latest collection oozes sparks of sustainability and the bespoke aura of all things handmade while focusing on an ingenious ink innovation by Dell. In a candid chat, she shares the inside track...

“I believe corporate social responsibility and giving back to the community improves the quality of our lives, creates sustainability and promotes a better and brighter future,” begins Tahera, who describes her collection best as, ‘Handmade, environment friendly.’ It’s done specifically to promote anti-air pollution, and to promote handmade, hand-looms and hand-weaves. Speaking of which, she elucidates, “I have worked with pure handlooms and Khadi to create a Japanese minimalist look with classic, relaxed and layered silhouettes.”

But team effort is what takes the cake.” This has been a collaboration of many people from varied strata. It was amazing to see how it came together and everybody contributed and the end results were remarkable,” shares the 37 year old.

The NIFT graduate, who’s label mixes quirky and contemporary designs with comfort and functionality, didn’t always knew this was her calling. “I dont think I always wanted to become a designer. It took me a while and the support of my family to help me zero in on design as a professional pursuit. I wanted to become a writer, so I grew up reading a lot of books. I was always interested in art. And, from there, I got interested in design — graphics, architecture. I remember sketching a lot of girls in my notebooks, with dresses and different clothes.”

She loves to juggle too many things at a time, so it doesn’t come as much of a surprise to see her indulge in a tonne of activities whenever time permits. On how her typical day looks like, she says, “I love to go out for a way. I need that time in the morning, I like to spend time around greenery. It leaves me feeling energized. I have a little daughter, and we get into the DIY projects. I also love watching old English movies and world cinema as well. Right now, I’m reading Rupi Kaur.”

The  current collaboration is yet to become commercial. But, Tahera has all her hopes pinned on its success. “It’s a great step towards being sustainable, it needs to be developed further. I see a lot of potential in it. I’m hoping it will be commercial and accessible soon. It’s a way to move forward. People need to get together more and do collaborations like this. It takes a group of people to come together and work an idea like.That aside, I’ll be flaunting my free fall collection next. It’s a black and white line. I’m excited for the time ahead.”