Inspiration drawn from fashion capitals like Paris or Japan in the business of design is routine. However, when you hear of a handbag collection that is inspired by the Kodagu district of Karnataka, the offbeat element is intriguing. Bengaluru-based luxury handbag label, Aranyani, has launched a line of totes, hobos and clutches that narrate design influenced by Kodagu’s landscape and culture.

“This collection tells the story of Kodagu, its flora and fauna, and culture seen through the eyes of its princess Victoria Gowramma, the first Indian royal to have landed in Britain in 1952. The bags are made with goat’s leather and handloom from Salem,” said CEO Haresh Mirpuri, who launched the label a year ago.

“Kodagu is known for its 250 species of birds like peacocks and birds of paradise that have translated into our design story in the form of motifs and colour schemes. The waterfalls of the mountain province, the nari-mangala or tiger wedding culture and medallions worn by brides at their wedding have been woven into the collection story,” he explained.

Interestingly, Mirpuri was stranded in flood-stricken Kodagu while working on this collection. “My brand draws inspiration from nature for all our lines. Stranded in Kodagu during its recent heavy monsoon and witnessing the devastation first-hand made me realize that we need to be serious and champion the cause of nature,” he said.

The Bengaluru brand has a celebrity client list that includes names like Hollywood singer Vanessa Williams and Bollywood actor Chitrangada Singh and comes in the price range of Rs 8000-75000.

Currently, it is retailed at flagship stores in Bengaluru, Surat and New York. Soon, they will expand to Delhi and Bali.

source: http://www.economictimes.indiatimes.com / The Economic Times / Home> Panache / by Smita Balram, Economic Times Bureau / October 11th, 2018