Salman, Sonam promote khadi, laud 'Huts To High Street' concept

Pic Courtesy: TV show still

Ahmedabad: He is one of Bollywood's most known and loved faces and this was evident as Salman walked the ramp with his "Prem Ratan Dhan Payo" co-star Sonam Kapoor at the IIM campus here to promote khadi as a part of Fashion Design Council of India's 'Huts to High Street' initiative.

Not only did he charm the girls with his mischievous smile but drew never-ending hoots and whistles from the boys too.

In keeping with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call to make khadi fashionable again, the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), a non-profit organisation, presented the second edition of its unique initiative to display the capabilities of the humble fabric at Louis Kahn Plaza of the IIM on Friday night.

The special showcasing was in association with the Gujarat State Khadi & Village Industries Board (GSKVIB).

On the occasion, some renowned designers like Rohit Bal and Rajesh Pratap Singh along with young faces like Pero by Aneeth Arora and 11.11 /Elevan Elevan showcased collections soaked in Indian heritage.

The designers presented innovative modern twists to handspun and woven embroideries but what all the guests at the fashion gala were waiting for was to see their favourite Khan walk the ramp. And he did not disappoint.

The inimitable Salman made his first appearance of the night by walking in khadi pajama kurta with matching bandi and accessorising it with pocket square, exuding a most suave look. 

He was later joined by Sonam who stole the show with an a one-piece long dress teamed up with a long jacket. 

While the actress looked stunning and made another successful appearance on the ramp, it was Salman who made the audience, especially the students of NIIFT and IIM crazy with his presence.

Both of them made an appearance again on the ramp, showcasing outfits designed by Bal.

Salman also took the opportunity to share his opinion on khadi and asked youngsters to include some of the khadi pieces in their wardrobe.

"It is a not only a well-priced fabric but is also very beautiful, durable and strong. What else do we need? I am not saying that don't wear anything else but at least own few pieces of khadi in your wardrobe even if it's a shirt, pant, shawl of muffler. We should be proud of wearing khadi and I believe that once we actors start taking over khadi than politicians, it will do much better," said the superstar in his own special way.

Sonam was also excited being part of such initiative.

"I was here last year walking for the same programe on ramp and it was a fantastic experience. I am extremely proud to be here," she said.

FDCI president Sunil Sethi, whose institution just a couple of days back organised a special show that wowed the spouses of African leaders here for the India-Africa Forum Summit, feels that khadi is the national heritage and everyone should do their bit to preserve the fabric.

"We are honoured to have taken our association with the Gujarat State Khadi and Village Industries Board, a step further to catapult khadi through an even bigger second edition of this magnificent showcase. The initiative will help promote languishing weavers who will be enabled with employment, creating a market for this India cool fabric," he said.

The event was witnessed by prominent industrialists, textile aficionados, senior bureaucrats, members of the film industry, and faculty and students from Gujarat design and business management institutes.