Punit Balana’s ‘Johari Bazaar’ Brings the Essence of Jaipur to Lakmé Fashion Week

Punit Balana’s enduring love for Jaipur has always found its way into his collections, and this season was no exception. At Lakmé Fashion Week in partnership with FDCI, Punit unveiled his latest collection, “Johari Bazaar,” a tribute to the vibrant soul of Jaipur. The collection masterfully blended glamour with rustic charm, capturing the sights, sounds, and energy of the city.

Sobhita Dhulipala took to the runway as the showstopper, effortlessly gliding in a dark sage green lehenga adorned with lavish embroidery. Her tiny choli and matching dupatta further elevated the ensemble, evoking the opulence of Jaipur’s heritage. Sobhita’s elegant poise and the exquisite craftsmanship of the outfit created a mesmerizing moment on the runway, embodying the essence of Punit Balana’s vision.

The inspiration behind “Johari Bazaar” came from Punit’s casual evening strolls through Jaipur’s iconic marketplace. The bustling energy, vibrant colors, and rich culture of Johari Bazaar sparked his creativity, leading him to recreate a mini version of the famous market as the backdrop for his show. With flower, bangle, and candy sellers, along with a live singer, the runway transformed into an immersive experience, where models gracefully moved through the stalls, admiring the intricate trinkets and baubles.

For his collection, Punit drew from traditional elements like Jaipur’s vivid puppets, beautifully carved wooden blocks, and the Mughal-inspired patterns on quilts. He incorporated these influences into his designs, weaving together a celebration of Jaipur’s heritage. Sparkling chandbalis and ornate jharokhas were central to the aesthetic, while khakas took inspiration from playful puppets. Fabrics bore Mughal motifs, with meticulous attention to detail in every stitch.

The color palette for “Johari Bazaar” was as rich and vibrant as the city itself. Jewel tones like gulaabi (pink), gulaal (rose), and baingani (purple) dominated the collection, with subtle hints of sage green—reminiscent of Russian emeralds—adding a regal touch to the ensembles.

The silhouettes were rooted in tradition yet exuded contemporary elegance. For women, the lehenga, choli, and dupatta combinations were adorned with intricate embroidery, creating ornate and captivating pieces. Men’s wear also reflected the rich inspiration, featuring Bandhani and embroidered kurtas, dupattas with detailed edges, and classic bandhgala jackets with expertly crafted traditional designs.

Punit Balana’s “Johari Bazaar” collection was a celebration of Jaipur’s timeless beauty and craftsmanship. His designs offered a modern interpretation of the city’s cultural essence, making it an unforgettable experience for the fashion-conscious women who will undoubtedly cherish dressing in these creations.