Famous Indian designer JJ Valaya wowed the audience at the Hyundai India Couture Week 2025 finale in New Delhi with his latest collection titled “East”. With 33 years in the fashion world, Valaya summed up Indian design in just three words: “Details, details…details.”
His new collection celebrated multiculturalism—something he’s always been known for. “East” explored different regions and traditions, starting from the mystical Far East, then moving into Eastern Europe, and finally landing in India. According to Valaya, this journey reflected his love for culture, tradition, and storytelling through fashion.
The runway show opened with monks, setting a spiritual tone, and included a beautiful ghat scene. During the show, classical Kathak dancer Shivani Varma performed, adding elegance and a traditional Indian touch to the evening. The event’s setup featured grand terracotta elephants and women’s statues, giving the stage a royal and cultural feel.
A mix of supermodels and celebrities walked the ramp wearing Valaya’s luxurious outfits. The highlight of the evening included cricketer Abhishek Sharma in a stunning ivory kurta-churidar outfit, followed by actors Rahul Dev and Mugdha Godse who walked together in coordinated black and gold outfits. The grand finale featured Gen Z stars Rasha Thadani and Ibrahim Ali Khan in eye-catching ethnic attire.
The collection used rich fabrics, deep colours, and intricate embroidery. Gilded turbans, embellished top-knot buns, and short veils added a modern twist to traditional designs, making them both elegant and trendy.
In a chat with NDTV after the show, Valaya explained that “East” was more than just clothes—it was a story. It started with the spirituality of the Far East, moved to the Balkan region where Eastern Europe meets Asia, and finally returned to India, the designer’s greatest inspiration.
With a mix of drama, tradition, and bold style, JJ Valaya’s “East” collection was a perfect celebration of Indian fashion’s global roots and deep cultural details.
