Rashmi Kumari Ahmad on merging Diwali glamour with cross-cultural couture

Rashmi Kumari, a celebrated name in South Asian couture, is known for her fearless embrace of opulence, merging Indian and Pakistani craftsmanship to create collections that celebrate shared cultural heritage. Now based in Pakistan after building her career in Dubai, Rashmi’s work captures the essence of both her roots and her experiences across borders. Known for her glamorous aesthetic and contemporary reimagining of the traditional sari, she has carved a niche with collections that resonate with women from all backgrounds.

Diwali’s vibrant traditions inspire Rashmi to create pieces that capture the essence of light, celebration, and elegance. “Diwali is all about glitter and glam, so it deeply influences my design process. It’s a season of hope, light, and festivity,” she explains. Rashmi’s Diwali designs feature lavish embroidery and shimmering gold and silver accents, creating looks that embody the festival’s spirit of celebration.

With her extensive background in both Indian and Pakistani fashion, Rashmi is uniquely positioned to bring elements from both cultures into her work. “I am blessed to be in this position as I get to see and experience the best from both these heritage-rich countries,” she shares. “India tends to be more modern in its approach, while Pakistan holds on to a traditional touch. With my label, artisans separated by partitions now work together to make these pieces.” This commitment to unity and heritage defines Rashmi’s brand, where pre-partition artistry meets contemporary design.

For this Diwali, Rashmi’s collection spotlights the return of the sari, which she describes as “the most versatile garment on the fashion scene.” Her modern saris allow women the freedom to style each piece as desired, giving them the flexibility to honor tradition or embrace a more contemporary look. “Diwali is all about celebration, and this year, saris have made a big comeback. My pieces allow women to choose how to wear these saris, as they can be styled in so many different ways,” she says.

Rashmi’s vision for Diwali is grounded in traditional symbolism, which she brings to life with luxurious fabrics and rich embellishments. “Yes, we have worked with velvet, luxurious silks with rich heritage motifs, and Zardozi embroidery,” she adds. These choices reflect the grandeur of the Diwali season and highlight the intricate craftsmanship behind each design.

Reflecting on her artisans, Rashmi shares how their stories resonate with Diwali’s themes of light, renewal, and unity. “The artisans behind my pieces are the real storytellers,” she says, adding that each piece is a testament to their skills and dedication. Through their craftsmanship, Rashmi’s work honors a collective cultural legacy, carrying forward the symbolism and artistry that make Diwali so meaningful.

While Rashmi has made strides in incorporating sustainable practices into her designs, she acknowledges that the festive season poses unique challenges. “We have used old brocade fabrics and borders from upcycled saris to make new pieces,” she explains. “But if I’m being honest, Diwali is a time when people want something fresh and special. It’s difficult to go fully eco-friendly during Diwali, as it’s about new things and new fabrics.”

Rashmi’s personal Diwali traditions—meeting old friends, playing cards, lighting traditional deeyas—not only reflect the spirit of the holiday but inspire elements in her work. “Diwali is celebrated throughout the month, and it’s about meeting friends, lighting deeyas, and appreciating our blessings,” she shares. “On the actual day, we worship the goddess Laxmi and light up our homes with traditional mud deeyas.” These customs are woven into her designs, adding a layer of cultural depth to each piece.

Above all, Rashmi hopes that her designs resonate with clients long after Diwali has ended. “I want my clients to feel like it’s Diwali all year long when they wear my pieces,” she says with a smile.

As her brand continues to grow, Rashmi envisions her designs evolving to capture the essence of other cultural festivals as well. “Living in Pakistan as an Indian gives me a unique perspective on different festivals and traditions,” she notes. “I hope to incorporate this rich tapestry into my designs, making saris that capture the essence of celebration and are enjoyed by everyone.”

Rashmi Kumari’s dedication to cultural exchange and her commitment to redefining South Asian couture is evident in her work and way of living. With each collection, she continues to craft not only garments but a shared narrative that celebrates the beauty, diversity, and unity of the subcontinent.